SPILL KIT, WHY IT IS IMPORTANT?
WHAT IS A SPILL KIT?
A spill kit is a well-organised set of equipment that has been specifically designed to
deal with cleaning up dangerous substances. It enables you to efficiently clean the spill
in the safest way possible. Spill kits come in many different forms and can purpose
different types of spills. There are kits in duffle bags, wheelie bins and even trailers. The
typical contents of a spill kit include:
Waste disposal bags
PPE wear (personal protective equipment)
Absorbents for soaking up the spill
A containment boom for preventing further spread of the spill
Dispersants (in some cases)
The purpose of a spill kit is to contain the spill as quickly as possible and clean it up
effectively. As a responsible workplace, it is your job to protect your staff and the
environment. Working with hazardous chemicals should not be taken lightly. It is
important to prepare for all possible situations.
WHEN WOULD YOU USE A SPILL KIT?
A spill kit is used when a dangerous chemical spills or leaks in your workplace. The
purpose of a spill kit is to contain, control and clean up. The hazardous substances that
a spill kit can clean up include (but are not limited to):
Petroleum
Oils
Fuels
Hazardous chemicals
Solvents
Cooking oils
Sewage
Protein fluids
If you work with any of these substances, you should consider getting a spill kit for your
workplace. The purpose of a spill kit is to clean up these substances. It is a fast and
easy way to deal with an accident involving such liquids.
Basically, if you are working with hazardous substances, you’re likely to need one. It is
important to check the Australian Work Health and Safety Act to confirm if your
business needs one.
TYPES OF SPILL KITS
There are 3 main types of spill kits:
1. General-Purpose – a universal kit used for containing non-hazardous substances. The
materials in this kit help to absorb coolants, water, solvents and antifreeze.
2. Marine – designed to deal with grease and oil spills. The materials in this kit are
designed to repel water, so can be used in an accident such as an ocean oil spill.
3. Workshop – suitable for dealing with hazardous chemicals and hydrocarbons. Used
mostly in manufacturing plants and industries.
WRAPPING UP
The purpose of a spill kit is to contain and clean up a spill as quickly as possible. It is
your responsibility not only for the safety of workers but also for the environment. It is
important to familiarise yourself with the type of hazardous substances you’re working
with. You can then pick a spill kit accordingly. Keep the spill kit in an easy to access
area for fast deployment.
