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Integrated Microfluidic Biotechnology Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 1-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
Chemical Spill Management
Purpose
This procedure outlines the requirements for the management of chemical spills in the
workplace to minimise effects to health and safety from exposure to chemical spills and
reduce the impact on the environment. The procedure applies to all university staff students
and contractors in all areas of the university where chemical substances are transported,
purchased, stored, handled, or used, including vehicles of visitors or suppliers who bring
substances into the university that are potentially hazardous
The procedure provides general guidance and therefore each laboratory or other work area
that use chemical substances should have specific procedures for the particular types of
substances used within the workplace or brought onto the premises.
Definitions
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - equipment to protect a person working in a
hazardous environment.
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Level A (PPE) – to be worn when the highest level of respiratory, skin, eye, and mucous
membrane protection is needed. It consists of fully encapsulating, chemical resistant clothing
and self-contained breathing apparatus.
Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 2-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
Level B (PPE) - should be used when the highest level of respiratory protection is required,
but a lesser level of skin and eye protection is sufficient.
Level C (PPE) - can be used when proper respiratory protection can be afforded by air-
purifying, canister-equipped protective breathing devices. It provides the same level of skin
protection as Level B, but a lower level of respiratory protection.
Level D (PPE) - consists primarily of a standard work uniform. It provides no respiratory
protection and affords only minimal skin protection.
Chemical Spill Guides - Guides to assist in the emergency management of particular classes
of spill ranging from acids to biological spill management. These guides outline the steps to
take and the PPE to wear to protect both the clean up team/person and the environment.
Designated Hazardous Substance – a hazardous substance that is:
1. Listed on Environment protection and Management act (EPMA) of designated
Hazardous Substances above its lowest cut-off concentration or
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2. that is determined to be a hazardous substance by the manufacturer or importer of the
substance
Hazardous Substance – a substance that contains ingredients that may be harmful to health.
This includes substances that are lethal and non-lethal, corrosive, toxic, irritant, sensitising,
Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 3-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
mutagenic, teratogenic or carcinogenic. The concentration level of each ingredient in a
mixture is taken into account in determining whether the mixture as a whole is determined to
be hazardous.
Dangerous Goods – a hazardous substance also defined by the 2nd Schedule of the EPMA.
They are classified on the basis of immediate physical or chemical effects that may impact on
people, property or the environment – explosive, flammable, corrosive, chemically reactive,
highly combustible, acutely toxic, radioactive or infectious, under the GHS classification
system.
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) – information sheets that provide technical information
in relation to substances. These sheets are obtained directly from the manufacturer or through
the University ChemWatch MSDS database. Be aware of the possible differences between the
manufacturer’s and generic MSDS’s.
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Risk - the probability (likelihood) of harm or damage occurring from exposure to a hazard,
and the likely consequences (severity) of that harm or damage.
Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) - An atmosphere-supplying respirator for
which the breathing air source is designed to be carried by the user.
Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 4-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
Roles and Responsibilities
Line Managers are responsible for ensuring that:
This procedure is implemented within their area of responsibility
All necessary equipment is available and maintained in the case of a chemical spill and
they are clearly labelled and signed
risk assessments are carried out to identify risk control measures to protect the health and
safety of people and potential harm to the environment
procedures are written following the identification of specific risks relevant to local areas
all staff receive appropriate training to deal with chemical spills where identified as
necessary
all supervisory staff are aware of the legal obligations and UniSA standards regarding
environmental pollution from chemical spills
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all staff that use, store or manage chemical substances as a minimum requirement
complete the online learning programs in environmental awareness and chemical spill
management
appropriate personnel are informed of any chemical spills and external providers
contracted to clean up where necessary.
Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 5-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that:
this procedure is implemented within their area(s) of responsibility
information is provided to all relevant staff and students to safely clean up spilled
chemical substances. This should include emergency services contact details, building
evacuation team contacts, and other staff as appropriate, location of equipment and
materials such as self contained breathing apparatus or respirator locations
appropriate equipment is cleaned, stored and maintained by qualified persons
Chemical Spill Management Facilities Inspections are carried out as per Workplace
Inspection procedure at least quarterly
all new area staff are inducted in environmental awareness and chemical spill
management
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Staff are responsible for ensuring that:
they do not place themselves or others at risk of injury
they place personal safety first - keep clear of a spill unless trained in spill control and
clean up
immediately reporting of chemical spill to their supervisor
only trained and competent staff attempt to clean up a chemical substance spill
they know where MSDS’s are kept, or how they can be accessed
Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 6-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
online learning modules in environmental awareness and chemical spill management are
completed
written procedures provided for spill control are followed
spill control equipment is used in the proper manner
equipment is stored and maintained as appropriate
Potential Hazards
The laboratory worker should not attempt to handle any chemicals unless they are properly
trained in handling chemical spills because of the potential hazards involved. Chemicals can
be radioactive, toxic, corrosive, flammable, explosive or carcinogenic. The risk of the
chemical spilled, the volume and the location of the spill, whether minor or major, determine
the nature of a spill.
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Another common concern over chemical accidents and spills is short-term toxicity. Acutely
toxic contaminants such as cyanide and chlorine gas released from chemical spills pose an
immediate threat to worker health. Chronic or long-term toxicity such as exposure to
carcinogens may result in cancer 10 or 20 years after the time of the spill although exposure
does not result in short-term health problems.
The potential for slipping and falling over uncovered spills such as acids which can cause the
floor to be very slippery is also a potential hazard.
Personal Protective Equipment
Refer to the MSDS, which will list the personal protective equipment recommended for use
with the chemical spilled.
1. Eye and face protection: Chemical splash goggles together with a face shield
provide protection to the face and neck if there is a potential for eye injury such as an
explosion or implosion (pressure or vacuum) hazard,
2. Skin and body protection:
i. Buttoned long-sleeved laboratory coat with a chemical splash
apron (made of rubber, Viton or neoprene),
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Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering LaboratoryTitle:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 7-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
ii. Disposable chemical-resistant Viton, nitrile or natural rubber gloves. Check
gloves for leaks before use. If necessary, wear a second pair for double
protection
iii. PVC boots
iv. Wear closed toed shoes and long sleeved clothing to protect
the feet and arms v. Shoe covers
3. Respirators: Respirators protect against specific types of substances only and in
certain concentration ranges. Each type has its limitations. If required (esp. when
vapours and fumes are likely to be emitted) the user must be appropriately trained and
test-fitted. Test the respirator for failure (such as filter clogging, odour breakthrough,
etc) before use. Some of the protections are:
Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 8-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
i. Particle-removing air purifying
ii. Gas and vapour-removing airpurifying or Airsupplying
Precautions
With proper planning, the effects of a spill can be minimized. Also, the extent of the required
precautions is partially determined by the size and the resultant hazard from the spill.
Therefore, planning for a spill emergency forms an integral part of preparing for safe work
practices with chemicals.
1. Attend to any injured or contaminated people first
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a. Protect yourself and others – keep a safe distance from the spilled chemical -
cordon off the spill area to prevent additional worker and environment
contamination
b. If a volatile, flammable chemical is spilled, ventilate the area and extinguish
any open flames (e.g. Bunsen burner). Due to the possibility of sparks, do not
operate light switches, telephones, or fire alarms
c. Avoid inhaling vapours from the spill
d. Think, plan and clean up carefully.
e. Consult MSDS and determine appropriate clean up procedures for the
chemical
2. Decide if you can safely handle the spill. Do not take unnecessary risks.
a. If unsure, consult department Safety Committee Chairman and the Safety
Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 9-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
b. Committee member for Chemical Safety.
3. Get help if the spills involves:
a. Large liquid volume
b. Strong odour/vapour
c. Worker injury or exposure
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d. Very hazardous material
e. Hazardous conditions (e.g. explosion, fire, radiation, toxicity, etc)
4. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment
5. Wash your hands before leaving the laboratory.
Spill Handling Procedures
1. Worker injury (if any) must be taken care of FIRST, and spill clean up SECOND.
2. Assess the spill, its hazards, and the danger to people in the vicinity quickly before
taking action.
3. In the event the spilled chemical is unknown, assume the worst and evacuate. The
safety of those in the vicinity is top priority.
4. Apply the “Three C” procedure:
i. Clean up the spill:
Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 10-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
Clean and Decontaminate
ii. Control the spill:
Immediate steps should be taken to control or stop the spill
Do not leave the area unattended, cordon off the spill site
iii. Contain the spill:
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• Contain the spilled chemical in as small an area as possible and prevent it
from spreading
Worker injury and contamination
1. Minor injury: Rinse minor burns by chemicals or scalds with lots of cold tap water for
at least 15 minutes. Treat with the laboratory First Aid kit
2. Eye contact: If chemical splash on eye, flush eye with plenty of water. Seek immediate
medical attention.
3. Serious injury or worker incapacitated: Send victim immediately to the Accident and
Emergency Department of National University Hospital to seek emergency medical
attention.
4. Chemical splashes on large area: Immediately remove chemical- soaked clothing and
flush under the emergency shower for 15 minutes and obtain immediate medical help
at the University Health and Wellness Centre (Tel: 67761631 / 65162880) or NUH
A & E Department (Tel: 67725000)
Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 11-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
Handling spills
Laboratory workers who have had the appropriate training and the appropriate equipment can
safely and effectively handle most of chemical spills that occur in the laboratory such as those
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involving one liter or less of liquid and or less than one kilogram of a solid. Refer to the
Materials Safety Data Sheets for recommended spill clean up.
Do not attempt to handle a large spill of a hazardous chemical (corrosive, highly toxic, or
reactive, emit fumes and vapors)
(I) The Chemical Spill Kit
Spill kits should be easily available for use. Used items should be replenished and the
contents checked on a monthly basis. The contents should include:
1. Personal protection equipment:
• Chemical-resistant gloves, e.g. nitrile rubber gloves • Chemical splash goggles
• Face shield
• Protective gown
• PVC boots
Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 12-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
2. Chemical Absorbent:
• Vermiculite
• Zeolite
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• Powersorb spill pillow
3. Chemical Neutralizing material:
• Algosol, Neutrasorb, Spill-X-A-Acid (neutralizes acid spills)
• Spill-X-C-Caustic, Neutracit-2 (neutralize caustic spills)
• Spill-X-Solvent, Solusorb (solvent neutralizer, act to reduce vapors, raise flashpoint)
• Hg Absorb sponge & powder (amalgamate mercury residue); Hg Vapor Absorbent
(reduce concentration of vapor in hard to reach areas )
4. Plastic scoop, dust pan, broom or brush with plastic bristles
5. Reagents for decontamination:
Calcium carbonate, sodium hydrogen carbonate (for corrosive liquid spills)
6. Strong, heavy duty leak-proof waste bags, sealing tapes
7. Hazardous waste labels, warning signs
(II) General spill clean-up procedure
Minor Chemical Spill (chemical type and quantity which is not an immediate threat to health
and does not result in contamination to body)
Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Laboratory
Title:
Chemical Spill Management
Rev no:2
Issue Date: 25.11.2016
Page: 13-14
Prepared by Approved by Approved date Revision date
Hsu Myat Noe Dr. Chen Chia-Hung 01.12.2016 01.12.2019
1. Alert workers in the vicinity of the spill
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2. Turn off open flames and heat sources if the spilled chemical is
flammable.
3. Ventilate area
4. Wear appropriate protective equipment
5. Avoid inhaling any vapors emitted from the spill
6. Confine and contain spill with appropriate absorbent material. Or sweep solid spills
into a dustpan.
7. If acid or base chemical, neutralize
8. Gather all solid contaminated material and put in a plastic bag. Seal and label.
9. If broken glass is present, use the scoop to place it in an appropriate plastic container
and label.
10. Clean and mop spill area with soap and water.
11. Decontaminate the area, equipment and broom/brush/dustpan used
12. Dispose plastic bag as chemical waste
Major Chemical Spill or Spills of hazardous or toxic chemicals
1. To minimize exposure, alert people in the laboratory to evacuate.
2. Turn off open flames and heat sources if the spilled chemical is flammable.
3. Ventilate area.
4. Cordon off affected area and post a warning sign at the entrance of the site to warn
others while trained personnel arrive to clean up the spill.
5. Call Campus Security (Tel: 68741616) for assistance.
References
National Code of Practice for the Control of Scheduled Carcinogenic Substances NOHSC:
2014(1995)
Approved Code of Practice for the Labelling of Workplace Substances
National Guidance Note for the Labelling of Workplace Substances (NOHSC: 3013(1991))
Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road or Rail
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National Model Regulations for the Control of Scheduled Carcinogenic Substances NOHSC:
1011(1995)
Approved Code of Practice for the Control of Workplace Hazardous Substances
University OHSW&IM Policy
University OHSW&IM Strategic Plan (PDF 358kb)
University OHSW&IM Management System (PDF 250kb)
University Research Policy RES-5.1 Bio-hazards Research
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