Your guide to Spill Kits in 2024

Spills happen. But being unprepared for them can lead to bigger problems, including hefty fines from regulators, safety risks for your employees, and potential environmental damage.

This guide equips you with the information you need to choose the ideal spill kit for your workplace, ensuring you have the right tools to respond effectively to spills.

Understanding Your Legal Obligations

The Work Health and Safety Act (2011) requires employers to take all reasonable steps to prepare for and respond to oil and chemical spills. Spill kits are a crucial element in demonstrating compliance and prioritising the safety of your workers and the environment.

Choosing the Right Absorbent Material

The key to effective spill cleanup is using the correct absorbent material. The wrong material can be ineffective in cleaning up a spill but could even be dangerous, as incompatible products can become a source of ignition which turns a spill into a fire.

Spill Kit Sizes: From Small to Large-Scale Response

Spill kits come in various sizes, ranging from 15 litres for facilities with minimal chemical use to 240 litres for industrial settings. Spill trailers equipped with spill response kits are also available for large-scale users, allowing for easy transport to the spill location.

Different Types of Spill Kits and Their Contents:

• Oil and Fuel Spill Kits: Designed specifically for hydrocarbon spills, these kits contain absorbent pads, pillows, floor sweep, and plugging materials.
• General Purpose Spill Kits: Versatile for various spill types, including water-based and hydrocarbon materials. Suitable for diverse industries like kitchens, mining, and laboratories.
• Hazchem Spill Kits: Highly specialised for hazardous chemicals like acids and bases. Include specific absorbents, personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles), and other necessary items to handle hazardous materials safely.

Remember: Don't wait for a spill to happen! Take proactive steps by getting the right spill kit and ensuring your employees are trained on its proper use.

Choosing the Best Spill Kit for Your Needs:

1. Identify Potential Spills: Start by determining the products your facility uses. If solely dealing with hydrocarbons, an oil and fuel spill kit is sufficient. If handling a mix of water-based and oil-based products, a general-purpose kit is ideal. For hazardous chemicals, a Hazchem spill kit is mandatory.

2. Consider Spill Size: Once you identify the necessary spill kit type, consider the potential spill size. Conduct a risk assessment to determine the worst-case scenario and choose a kit that allows you to handle it effectively.

Seek Professional Guidance:

Choosing the right spill kit is crucial. SpillPro recommends seeking professional assistance to avoid making the wrong choice that could worsen an already hazardous situation. Our team can assist you in:

• Identifying the right spill kit type based on your specific needs.
• Determining the appropriate size based on your risk assessment.
• Ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

SpillPro: Your Partner in Workplace Safety

SpillPro offers a comprehensive range of spill kits designed to handle various spills efficiently. Contact our team today on 1800 368 450 for personalised advice and find the ideal solution for your workplace safety needs.