SECTION 6
CHEMICAL SPILL MANAGEMENT
Chemical Spill Plans
Persons using and storing hazardous materials are responsible for chemical safety in their work areas. The following concerns must be addressed by persons using or storing hazardous materials:
- Maintain updated inventories of chemicals in the workplace, including locations and quantities.
- Keep MSDS information readily available, preferably in a safe and conspicuous location.
- Minimize quantities of hazardous materials in storage or use.
- Develop and maintain spill prevention, containment, and control plans specific to the work area.
- Train personnel in standard operating and emergency procedures.
- Make sure someone knowledgeable about the work area is available at all times.
- Limit the variety of materials or hazards in the area.
- Maintain good housekeeping practices in work and storage areas.
Any unknown factors, such as unidentified materials, or the unavailability of persons familiar with the work area and its hazards can easily slow the response actions. Emergency personnel will likely take a defensive position, protecting life and
property outside of the affected areas.
For additional information or assistance in developing chemical spill plans, please refer to the Safety and Health Management Plan, or contact EHSC.
Spill Notification
The University provides non-emergency and initial emergency response services
through EHSC, Campus Police, and Facilities Operations. For any emergency,
call Campus Police at 911. Campus Police provides 24-hour coverage,
and will contact specific resources as needed. For non-emergency services during
normal business hours, contact the appropriate department.
Spill notifications to Campus Police or EHSC should include the following information:
- Caller's name and phone number
- Location of spill
- Location to meet caller
- Identity and quantity of material spilled
- Any injuries or evacuation
- Type of assistance requested (e.g., spill control, cleanup, guidance)
The University is required to report any "reportable quantity" releases of hazardous chemicals to the environment (i.e., outside the confines of a building). Releases of compressed gases, outdoor spills, and discharges to sewers are the three
most likely occurrences that would require reporting to outside agencies. EHSC must be notified of any release to the environment to ensure appropriate outside notifications are made.
