Chemical Spills can occur at anytime. Whether in a student science lab or in the course of a workday, an accidental spill must be addressed immediately.

Before using any chemical....

• You should receive training from your supervisor about the chemical or product you are using, including spill clean-up procedures.
• Always read the Material Safety Data Sheet for information about proper handling, storage and use of the chemical.

Steps to be taken in the event of a chemical spill....

• In the event of a chemical spill, the individual(s) who caused the spill is responsible for prompt and proper clean-up. It is also their responsibility to have spill control and personal protective equipment appropriate for the chemicals being handled readily available.

  The following are general guidelines to be followed for a chemical spill. More detailed procedures may be available in your Department.

 

 

 

• Immediately alert area occupants and supervisor, and evacuate the area, if necessary. If you need assistance contact Campus Security at 9-4357 (HELP).
• If there is a fire or medical attention is needed, contact Public Safety at 9-911.
  
• Attend to any people who may be contaminated. Contaminated clothing must be removed immediately and the skin flushed with water for no less than fifteen minutes. Clothing must be laundered before reuse.
  
• If a volatile, flammable material is spilled, immediately warn everyone, control sources of ignition and ventilate the area.
  
• Don personal protective equipment, as appropriate to the hazards. Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet or other references for information.
  
• The use of a respirator or self-contained breathing apparatus requires specialized training and medical surveillance. Never enter a contaminated atmosphere without protection or use a respirator without training. If respiratory protection is needed and no trained personnel are available, call WWU Security at x9-4357 or Public Safety at 9-911. If respiratory protection is used, be sure there is another person outside the spill area in communication, in case of an emergency. If no one is available, contact Public Safety.