What Are Spill Kits, and How Are They Used?

Spill kits are essential tools for managing and cleaning up hazardous or non-hazardous spills in the workplace. These kits are designed to respond quickly and effectively to spills, minimising damage to the environment, safeguarding workers, and helping businesses comply with regulations. Here’s an in-depth look at what spill kits are and how to use them.

What Is a Spill Kit?

A spill kit is a collection of absorbent materials, protective equipment, and tools designed to control, contain, and clean up spills. They are available in various sizes and types, depending on the nature of the liquids you are handling. Spill kits can address oil spills, chemical spills, or general-purpose spills involving non-hazardous liquids like water.

Types of Spill Kits

There are three main types of spill kits, each tailored to different kinds of spills:

1. Oil Spill Kits: Oil selective spill kits absorb hydrocarbons but repel water. They come in various styles to suit different applications. The absorbents used in oil spill kits are coloured blue or white in accordance with BS 7959 part 3.
2. Chemical Spill Kits: Chemical spill kits can absorb almost any liquid, including aggressive chemicals. They come in different sizes, from 15-litre kits in a carry bag to large spill carts capable of holding 1,000 litres worth of absorbents.
3. Maintenance Spill Kits: These kits are suitable for general-purpose spills involving non-hazardous liquids like coolants or water. The absorbents in maintenance kits are grey, following BS 7959 part 3 standards.

Components of a Spill Kit

A typical spill kit includes the following items:

• Absorbent Pads
• Absorbent Cushions
• Containers
• Waste Bags 
• Absorbent Socks or Booms
• Signage

How to Use a Spill Kit

Here’s a step-by-step guide to effectively using a spill kit:

1. Assess the Situation
   Ensure that the spill is safe to handle without needing professional intervention. Some spills, especially involving hazardous chemicals, may require evacuation or specialist cleanup teams.
2. Protect Yourself
   Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) from the kit, including gloves, goggles, and any other protective gear necessary to prevent exposure to hazardous substances.
3. Contain the Spill
   Stop the spill from spreading by placing absorbent socks or booms around the perimeter of the spill. This creates a barrier, preventing the liquid from reaching drains, waterways, or sensitive areas.
4. Absorb the Spill
   After containing the spill, use absorbent pads, socks, or granules to soak up the liquid. Lay absorbent pads over the spill or sprinkle granules evenly across the affected area.
5. Clean Up
   Once the spill has been absorbed, collect the used absorbent materials and place them into the disposal bags provided in the kit. Ensure the bags are sealed properly to avoid further contamination.
6. Dispose of Waste Properly
   Dispose of contaminated materials in accordance with local regulations. For hazardous substances, this may involve special disposal procedures, such as contacting a licensed waste disposal company.
7. Report and Document the Incident
   After the spill has been cleaned up, ensure that the incident is recorded. This is particularly important if hazardous materials were involved, as documentation helps with regulatory compliance and can prevent future incidents.

Why Are Spill Kits Important?

1. Regulatory Compliance: In the UK, businesses handling hazardous substances are required to have spill response plans, which often include spill kits. Regulations such as the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) and the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations (2001) mandate the use of proper spill containment procedures.
2. Environmental Protection: Spill kits help prevent pollutants from reaching drains, waterways, or soil, minimizing environmental damage.
3. Workplace Safety: A quick response to spills can prevent slips, falls, and exposure to dangerous substances, protecting both workers and visitors.
4. Cost-Effective: By managing spills swiftly, businesses can reduce the risk of fines, cleanup costs, and downtime caused by accidents or environmental incidents.

Having the right type of kit available and knowing how to use it can make a significant difference in preventing environmental damage, ensuring worker safety, and avoiding costly penalties.

Contact us today if you have any questions or need assistance in choosing the right spill kit for your business.