Hazardous Spills - Avoid Life Threatening Injuries

1. ACTIVATE ALARMS, IF NECESSARY.

Be familiar with the location of the alarm system in your area. If the incident could threaten the health of the individuals in the building, activate the alarm.

2. TREAT LIFE THREATENING INJURIES. FOR INGESTION OR INHALATION, CALL THE POISON CONTROL CENTER 1-800-252-5655.

The first priority in the event of an emergency is to protect the life and health of individuals whenever possible. Do not unnecessarily jeopardize your own safety. Know the location of emergency showers and eyewashes.

3. EVACUATE NON-ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL AND PREVENT ACCESS TO THE AREA.

Barricades of some sort with appropriate warnings should be set up to prevent inadvertent access to the area of the spill. This action may be necessary to prevent injury and to control the spread of contamination.

4. DIAL 911 TO INITATE YOUR EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN.

Get as much information as you can about the chemical or chemical products. If possible, locate the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Be sure that everyone involved is accurately informed as to the nature and location of the spill.

5. CONTAIN THE SPILL IF IT CAN BE DONE SAFELY AND PREVENT RELEASE TO THE ENVIRONMENT.

If the spill can safely be contained, prevent release to the sanitary sewer (sinks, drains), the storm sewer system, and/or the ground. Do not unnecessarily jeopardize your own safety.

6. INITIATE MATERIAL SPECIFIC CLEAN-UP PROCEDURES. Read More....

What to do During a Hazardous Materials Incident

Listen to local radio or television stations for detailed information and instructions. Follow the instructions carefully. You should stay away from the area to minimize the risk of contamination. Remember that some toxic chemicals are odorless.

• If you are: Then: Asked to evacuate Do so immediately.

• Stay tuned to a radio or television for information on evacuation routes, temporary shelters, and procedures.

• Follow the routes recommended by the authorities--shortcuts may not be safe. Leave at once.

• If you have time, minimize contamination in the house by closing all windows, shutting all vents, and turning off attic fans.

• Take pre-assembled disaster supplies.

• Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance--infants, elderly people and people with disabilities.

Reporting Spills and Releases

*All spills should be immediately reported using the 24-hour toll free hotline (1-800-943-0003). However, if you discover a discharge through analysis of soil or water, use the Hazardous Substance Release Fax Notification Form. Please include a summary of lab data with the form.

Safety Learning Courses:

Dealing With Hazardous Spills Training Programs