Office of Public Safety
Office of Environmental Health & Safety
Office of Environmental Health & Safety

Chemical Spills

In the event of a chemical spill, the individual(s) who caused the spill is responsible for prompt and proper response. It is also their responsibility to have spill control and personal protective equipment appropriate for the chemicals being handled readily available. It is important that laboratories conducting work with hazardous chemicals have access to chemical spill kits. 

Spills can be classified into two categories: 

Depending on the spill type, the response from personnel will be different. The following are the steps personnel need to take when encountering the different spill types:

  1. Notify supervisor and control the spill area.
    1. Personnel should make sure all relevant personnel are informed of the spill
    2. Measures should be taken to control and contain the spill, limiting its spread. 
  2. Apply appropriate absorbent material while wearing the correct PPE.
    1. Before touching the spill, put on necessary PPE, which include lab coat, gloves, and safety goggles. 
    2. Use appropriate absorbent materials to contain and absorb the spilled substance. If an acid or base is spilled, a neutralizer must be used
      1. Acid: Soda ash or sodium bicarbonate can be used as a neutralizer.
      2. Base: Citric acid or ascorbic acid can be used as a neutralizer.
    3. Avoid direct contact with the spilled material.
  3. Collect all materials in an impervious bag/container and then seal it.
    1. Place all contaminated materials, including used absorbents and PPE, in an impervious bag or container using a mechanical means.
    2. Seal the bag or container securely to prevent further contamination. 
  4. Decontaminate the area and arrange for disposal.
    1. Decontaminate the spill area thoroughly, following established procedures. 
    2. Submit a hazardous waste pick-up request for the sealed bag or container through EHSA
    3. Clearly label the bag or container with a hazardous waste sticker 

  1. Notify supervisor, secure spill area, and evacuate.
    1. Immediately inform your supervisor or relevant personnel about the major spill.
    2. Take immediate steps to secure the spill area, preventing unauthorized access. 
    3. Initiate evacuation procedures to ensure the safety of all personnel in the vicinity.
  2. Contact EH&S and communicate name, spill type, quantity, and location.
    1. Promptly contact EH&S (7-4712) to report the incident.
    2. Clearly communicate essential information, including the chemical name, spill type, quantity, and exact location. 
    3. Follow any additional instructions provided by EH&S personnel.  
  3. Contact GUPD (7-HELP or 7-4343) for further assistance.
    1. Dial GUPD to request immediate assistance in managing the spill.
    2. Provide GUPD with relevant details about the spill and follow any guidance they offer.
  4. Spills should not be cleaned up by anyone other than knowledgeable and experienced personnel.
    1. In the case of a major spill, do not attempt to clean up the spill unless you are specifically trained and authorized to do so. 
    2. Await the arrival of EH&S or other designated personnel with the expertise to handle major spills safely.