Spillage in the workplace
Risk assessment is always the key to resolving spillage successfully.
Spillages on site can have far reaching effects on your business; that is why it is critical that all spillages are controlled as quickly and safely as possible. Adequate spillage training for your team is the only way to prepare.
Spillages or loss of control of substances can happen to almost all companies. This can range from chemical plants operating to the COMAH legislation, to transportation and courier companies that will be moving client packages with no knowledge of the contents or the emergency actions required in the event of a spillage.
Not only may there be environmental implications, there are always implications on the health of your staff. Spillage Response Training is designed for operators who form part of your first response to a spillage or loss of containment of hazardous substances.
A good spillage response course should involve some or all of the following
- On Site Hazardous Materials including site specific materials/products, staff response requirements and supervisor control
- Emergency Procedures - including site specific considerations, how to set up an effective cordon, protective equipment and spillage containment
- Risk Assessment including access, communications, data retrieval, control, personnel safety, decontamination and additional hazards
- A practical spillage training exercise
The following case studies show three different types of spillage that can easily occur:
Sewage barge spill - Full story: BBC News
Cannock health club spill - Full story: BBC News
Risk assessment is always the key to resolving spillage successfully. The direction of approach, use of the right PPE (personal protective equipment) and thinking before rushing in are just some of the factors which can help resolve an incident quickly.
