Suppose you’re standing near a production machine and suddenly liquid comes pouring out of a holding tank. You’re familiar with the machine, so you shut off the fill pump and open the drain valve. But if you’re not familiar with the machine, your operating its controls could make the problem worse; find an operator.
Suppose you decide to clean up the spill. Do you know:
- What the substance is and about how much of it has actually spilled?
- Whether the substance is corrosive, flammable, or highly toxic? Or emanating deadly fumes? And what to do if it is?
- Whether the spill is too large for you to clean up without help? Hint: Anything more than about a gallon isn’t a solo cleanup job.
- How to clean up that particular spill completely and correctly?
- How and where to properly dispose of the cleanup materials?
Make sure you report any spill regardless of size, and preferably before attempting a cleanup.