Equipment leaks are common and must be addressed and contained. Take precautions to prevent them if possible. We have spill kits available at the warehouse if you are on a site that requires one.

If you are in the field and have a leak or spill, please contact Bob Haskins at (480) 651-3977 and he will arrive with the spill kit and absorbent pads.

Hazards of Spill Containment

Once hazardous substances are out of their primary container and into the secondary containment (or running free towards a watercourse), they will present a series of risks to employees, first responders and the general public.

Here is a (by no means exhaustive) list the hazards you might encounter as the result of a spill:

• Fire and Explosion: Many of these substances are flammable and have a low flash point. If the volatile concentration is between the Lower Explosion Limit (LEL) and Upper Explosion Limit (UEL), the material will explode.
• Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S): Any H2S contained in the oil and oil derivatives can be released from the solution once the substance is out of the tank. Exposure to H2S can result in severe healthy issues and can potentially be fatal. .
• Toxicity: Many chemicals are toxic and can enter the body through inhalation, absorption, contact, and ingestion (although this last one is less likely). Depending on the chemical and the degree of exposure, it can lead to chronic illness, dermatitis, and a host of other conditions.
• Burns: Alkali and acids can cause severe burns, either through direct contact with organs (skin, eyes) or, as volatiles, when combined with bodily fluids from the eyes or lungs.
• Physical Injury: Some chemicals are slick and will present an elevated risks of slips and falls.
• Runoff: Gravity will cause liquids to settle in a lower area, which will likely bring them to drains, storm water ponds, or bodies of water, resulting in water pollution.