WHAT IS A SPILL KITs?

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.

•  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.

WHO USES A SPILL KITS?

Spill kits are used in multiple different workplaces and industries. These include:

•  Warehouses and workshops
•  Automotive repair and maintenance shops
•  Laboratories
•  Hospitals
•  Commercial kitchens and restaurants
•  Transport companies
•  Shipping depots
•  Oil, gas and mining sectors
•  The defence sector
•  Manufactures
•  Docks and marinas
•  City councils and public amenities

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 kitS 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.