How to Handle a Chemical Spill: Safety Tips for Employees
A chemical spill can create immediate risks to people, property and the environment. The correct response depends on the substance and your site procedures, so employees should never improvise or put themselves in danger.
Immediate priorities
- Raise the alarm and keep people away from the affected area.
- Do not touch the substance or attempt a clean-up unless you are trained and authorised.
- Check the relevant COSHH information and follow your emergency procedure.
- Call 999 if anyone is injured, exposed or at immediate risk.
- Report the incident and record what happened so the underlying cause can be reviewed.
Prepare before an incident
Keep substances labelled and stored safely, make safety data available and ensure staff know how to report a spill. Suitable PPE, spill kits and emergency arrangements should match the substances used on site.
Build wider workplace safety skills
Emergency procedures work best when they sit within a wider programme of risk awareness, first aid and health and safety training. See our health and safety training courses or request a group booking quote.