Just like fire, a spill can cause major damage to workers and a site, even more so if the wrong chemical is used.
However, there are also many environmental risks to take into consideration. When fuel and other pollutants escape into the environment, it can cause serious harm to water, land and natural habitats – posing a risk to the health of people, animals, and wildlife.
Fuel and oil spills can also be costly and damaging to the business that caused the spill. Aside from any clear up costs and potential fine, or other sanctions that the Environment Agency may impose, a spill can seriously harm a business’s reputation.
Here at Bull, we supply the construction industry with a range of spill control equipment to ensure businesses are prepared no matter how big or small the spill is. Here are our three critical steps you should follow:
Communicate the hazard
You’ve spotted the spill but it’s important to immediately notify your workers of the hazard on site that they can act accordingly and exit the site/building if they need to.
Ensure you notify the site manager, and explain which material was spilled and the amount to ensure effective and swift removal of the substance.
Make sure that anyone who is injured or has been in contact with the spill is immediately removed from the workplace.
Clear up the spill
To ensure the spill does not get any worse, it’s important to contain the hazard and clean up the spill as quickly as possible. The size and nature of the spill will dictate the response required.
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Can the source or cause of the spill be identified?
- Is there a risk to human health?
- Can it be stopped and contained?
- Do the emergency services need to be involved?
- Does the Environment Agency need to be informed?
- Is support from a specialist Spill Responder required to help clean up?
The speed and effectiveness of the first response will often be dependent on having the right spill control equipment on site. For example, having the right type and quantity of absorbent pads to soak up the spill can help keep a spill under control, clean it up, and limit the impact on the environment.
Here at Bull, we supply a range of spill kits that have been specifically engineered to manage the specific risks associated with oil, chemical, and general maintenance spills.
Recovery
Once the spill has been recovered, it’s important to assess the risk – identify the spilled material, where it took place, the hazards and how the spill was dealt with. Recording this information will ensure spills are minimalised in the future and that workers are aware of what to do should a spill occur on site again.
Ensure spill kits are maintained on a regular basis so that they are fit for purpose and the appropriate measures are in place next time around.
Expert advice you can rely on
At Bull, we supply the building and construction industry with expert advice and specialist equipment.