SPILL RESPONSE

Training Program

Objectives

Become familiar with applicable regulatory standards Demonstrate an understanding of potential hazards and appropriate responses Demonstrate an understanding of NYMC procedures

Why Do We Need Spill Kits?

Because Accidents Happen!!

Chemical spills occur despite the best work procedures and practices. Potential hazards must be recognized. YOU need to know the safest response. Therefore, knowledge of NYMC procedures is required.

Chemical Spill Response Emergency Action Plan

Identifies a typical chemical spill and defines appropriate response Fundamental requirements

Priority: personal safety Assessment of the Incident NYMC has defined a minor spill to which you may respond as: Spilled quantity is less than 100 ml Spill covers less than 10 sq. ft. (10 floor tiles) Substance spilled is not extremely hazardous

Evacuation

Unsafe condition Extremely hazardous spill

Chemical Spill Response Emergency Action Plan

Notification of procedure

Before taking any other action contact

Security, x4226

Provide all information requested, in particular: Name Room Number What/How much was spilled EHS will respond to the spill to assess the hazard and provide health and clean-up information. This information can help in determining if the spill can be adequately handled with the spill kit or will require an outside contractor (i.e: hazmat team).

Security will then contact EHS

Find and read the MSDS for information on health hazards and other emergency response.

Chemical Spill Response Emergency Action Plan

Limits of Response The emergency chemical spill kit is designed for use in a minor spill. Everyone in the lab should know the location of the nearest spill kit Know the locations of eyewash and safety showers Ventilation, use of PPE and Spill Kit Ensure adequate ventilation PPE must be worn at ALL times Report injuries to Health Services Dept.

Spill Kit

Located in each lab

Contains gloves, absorbent pads, sheets, goggles, aprons & disposal bags. An inventory on the outside of the bucket lists what is contained inside

Periodically check the spill kit to see if supplies need to be replenished. Additional supplies may be obtained from EHS

Conclusion

Know potential hazards and adhere to emergency procedures

It may save your life If a procedure is not clear, or you have a questions, ASK SOMEONE TO EXPLAIN Know where the spill kits are located

Report all unsafe conditions and incidents

Report before taking any action In an emergency, remember to call Security at x 4226

Do not, by your actions, create hazardous situations that may endanger employees

Store and handle chemicals in a proper manner At or below eye level If you cannot safely respond - Evacuate

Biological Spills

Biohazard Spill Kits can be found in each lab. The kits are equipped with spill control material along with instructions for use. All laboratory personnel are encouraged to use these materials to clean up small to medium size biohazardous spills within their work area. Use of Spill Kit material should be reported to the EHS Department x4078 so kits can be replenished.

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For clean up assistance, call Security at x4226 and provide the following information: Name Location Description of incident Name of Agent

* While awaiting EHS response, use caution barrier tape to identify spill area.

Mercury Spills

Elemental mercury is extremely toxic to the body in high and low doses and can enter the body via ingestion, inhalation and dermal exposure

Depending on the type of exposure, the target organ(s) may vary

Ex: inhalation of mercury vapors can lead to brain and neural toxicity Metallic mercury slowly evaporates when exposed to the air. The air in a room can reach contamination levels just from the mercury in a broken thermometer

This is why all mercury spills, regardless of quantity, should be treated seriously

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If a spill occurs, the following action is to be taken:

Immediately notify your PI and co-workers of the spill and isolate the area Mercury evaporates at room temperature, so ventilate the area to reduce the amount of vapors in the air Contact Security at x4226 and notify them of the spill; Security will notify EHS

Conclusion

Use extreme care and wear proper PPE, including a lab coat, gloves and safety goggles when handling mercury or mercury containing devices Replace any mercury-containing devices with safe alternatives If a spill occurs: Notify PI and coworkers Isolate the area and ventilate Call Security at x4226 Clean up contaminated area Contact EHS to properly dispose of waste