A sizeable spill of some of the more hazardous solvents could be hazardous to your health, start a fire, or contaminate the environment. But there are precautions you can train your workers to take that will help prevent a solvent spill. Tell them to:
- Keep solvent containers closed when not in use.
- Inspect containers regularly for corrosion, dents, and other damage, as well as for small leaks.
- Clean up small solvent spills promptly and thoroughly. Large spills should be handled by the emergency response team.
Deliver fast and effective Environmental, DOT, and OSHA training with Environmental Training Library. Try it at no cost or risk. For a limited time, also receive a free special report. Download Your Free Report
- Be sure all containers–including waste containers–are properly labeled.
- Dispose of waste solvents and material such as rags contaminated with solvents properly. Waste solvents should only be put into designated containers for recycling or disposal. Never put solvents into storm drains, sanitary sewers, down sink drains, or in the trash. Soaked rags and other cleanup materials should be put in designated closed containers to prevent fires.
Would Your Workers Know What to Do in the Event of a Solvent Spill?
Solvent spills have specific sets of procedures to follow based on the size of the spill. Small spills of solvents during the course of work can generally be wiped up with a rag or absorbent wipe and disposed of properly—usually in a correctly marked safety can. However, only properly trained and equipped employees should respond to and clean up large solvent spills.
Download your FREE special report, Hazwaste Container Management: Where EPA Inspectors Look First, and receive a 30-day trial of Environmental Training Library at no cost or obligation. Download Your Free Report
Workers that are not members of your special response team should know to get away from the spill as fast as possible. Here’s what else they need to do:
- Evacuate the area and move to a safe area, either within the facility or outside the building, depending on the hazards.
- Notify others of the spill. Tell co-workers in the immediate area so that they can evacuate as well. Notify a supervisor and the emergency response team.
- If it’s safe to do so, remove ignition sources. Turn off motors and machines. If a highly flammable solvent has spilled, the power to electrical boxes in the area should also be cut. Be aware that throwing an electrical switch may create a spark, therefore, it may be safer not to power off and wait for an expert to arrive.
- And finally, stay away from the spill area until you are told by the emergency cleanup team that it’s safe to return.