Hazardous material spill procedures (modified 09/05/01 from Lab Safety Guide)

Spill/Release Events are divided into three basic categories:

1.  Spills/Releases That Are Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH):

A spill/release that, in the opinion of the lab supervisor or individual responsible for the chemical or area, poses an immediate health threat to the individual and/or other occupants in the building.  In this case:

  • Sound the fire alarm, if appropriate.
  • Call 911 from a safe location and provide the following information to the dispatcher:
    •  Nature of the emergency
    • Chemical involved
    • Building
    • Room number
  • Remain on scene to meet response personnel and provide additional information.

An example would be a one-liter spill of benzene or an uncontrolled release of hazardous gas.

 2.  Spills/Releases That Can Be Cleaned Up By Lab Personnel:  

Attempt to clean up a spill/release if you and/or your supervisor feel that it is safe to do so.  Guidelines include:

  • You are thoroughly familiar with the hazards of the material (reference MSDS)
  • You have been trained to deal with spills/releases of the size in question.
  • You have the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), should it be necessary.
  • The appropriate absorbent/neutralizers are readily available.

It is essential that you collect all spill clean up waste for proper disposal. 
DO NOT PLACE IN OR AROUND THE REGULAR TRASH.  Place the spill clean up waste in a closed container and attach a NMSU Waste/Material Tracking Form if available, or at a minimum label with contents.  Contact Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) at 646-3327 for waste pick up.

An example would be a mercury thermometer that breaks but the mercury is contained.

 3.  Spills/Releases That Are Not IDLH But Require Technical Assistance:

If you or your supervisor feels that you do not have the proper training or equipment necessary to clean up a spill/release then call EH&S direct at 646-3327 or 646-3311 to page EH&S staff through the NMSU Police Department.

An example would be a thermometer that breaks and scatters mercury across the floor.
(Mercury spill procedures)

NMSU Lab Safety Guide (table of contents)

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