Safety

Corrosive Chemicals, Part 6

Feb. 20, 2018

Always report a spill.

Spills happen, even when you're careful. Whether you create the spill or just come across it, always report a spill. If you can report it immediately by radio or cell phone, then do so. Otherwise, report it from a safe place as soon as is practical.

Don't assume you must clean it up or even contain it; you might not be able to do either. If the spill is more than about a gallon, don’t attempt to clean it up. If you can toss down some absorbers to slow the spread, fine. Then leave. If your eyes burn or the fumes make you cough, don't do anything except get out of there.

As you leave the area, alert others in the vicinity. Contact your boss and report the spill. Briefly state how you handled the incident and why. A properly equipped spill team must respond to handle some spills; make sure you and your boss have reported the incident to the correct contact so this team will be assembled and dispatched.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.