What Is A Spill Kit

Spill kits can vary greatly depending on the material they were designed to clean.  A simple spill kit may consist of little more than an absorbent dust or pad to place on a liquid spill in order to solidify it for a broom and dustpan.  A more complex spill kit might include protective equipment, specialized cleaning solutions or equipment, and a special container for disposal.

Normally, however, a spill kit will contain descriptions for all equipment, how to use each component, and a step-by-step procedure for using the spill kit properly.

Example Of Step-By-Step Spill Kit Procedures

The following is an example of instructions contained in a complex spill kit used to clean spilled acid from an automotive battery:

Contents:

  • PPE – Rubber Gloves, Face Mask, Safety Goggles
  • Baking Soda
  • Barrier Agent
  • Solidifier
  • Plastic Content Bag
  • Plastic Bucket Container

Step 1

Remove the contents of the spill kit from the plastic disposal bucket.  Set aside.

Step 2

Put on goggles, face mask, and rubber gloves for protection.

Step 3

Using the barrier agent powder, encircle the area of spilled battery acid to prevent further spreading.

Step 4

Liberally apply baking soda to battery acid, floor, and barrier agent powder.  Apply more baking soda to any areas that show a “bubbling” reaction – continue until reaction stops.

Step 5

Place the plastic container bag inside the bucket – the lip of the bag should cover hand over the edges of the bucket.

Step 6

Apply backing powder to inside walls of the plastic bag with a liberal layer on the bottom of the bag.

Step 7

Apply solidifier powder to the area of the spill – wait 10 minutes for liquid to be absorbed.

Step 8

Using a broom and dustpan, sweep up all powder and dispose of in the plastic container bag.

Step 9

Reapply baking soda to entire area to neutralize any remaining battery acid – sweep into dustpan and dispose of in the plastic container bag.

Step 10

Seal plastic container bag.  Leave bag in plastic bucket container and seal bucket.

Step 11

Mark bucket with hazardous waste sticker (included) and dispose of properly.

If all steps were followed correctly, the area should now be safe to clean and mop with conventional methods.

For Large Hazardous Spills In Phoenix, Arizona

If the hazardous waste in question is simply too large to clean with a conventional spill kit, contact a professional hazardous material disposal and sanitation service – such as the expert cleaning and sanitation staff at Bio-One.

BioteamAZ is trained and certified to properly handle and dispose of a wide range of hazardous substances – and their name is trusted throughout Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tucson, and the surrounding areas for their unmatched skill and expertise at affordable prices.  Contact us today for a scheduled or emergency response.