Does your business have 
a spill response plan?
A Spill Response Plan, also called a Spill Contingency Plan (SCP) is a written plan specific to each business that clearly explains the company policy regarding spill clean up, reuse, recycling, and disposal on any spilled liquids, including oils, chemicals and soiled sorbent materials. A comprehensive Spill Response Plan should include the following information:
- Inventory of stored chemicals, fuels and oils — including quantity and location
- Training guidelines
- Chain of command
- Important phone numbers
- Location of available safety equipmenet, materials, and absorbents used for spill clean up
- Proper disposal guidelines
Is your business prepared to follow the plan?
Quick spill response is important to reduce damage and exposure that results from any size spill. Most people associate the words “oil spill” or “chemical spill” to a catastrophic event. While this can be true in some situations, most spills are incidental and occur in the normal course of daily business. This does not diminish the importance of following a well established plan that conforms to the company’s policy. Each worker should be trained and familiar with the chain of command and steps to be followed for any size spill.
A copy of the Spill Response Plan should be easily available where ever a spill is likely to occur. An adequate inventory of absorbent materials and safety equipment that is compatible with the liquids listed in the inventory must be maintained. These materials should be stored in an area or in a spill kit with easy access and signage visible to all employees. Each worker must be trained and regular drills performed to unsure a quick spill response and safe spill cleanup.