Preventing spill within the lab is a crucial element when
trying to run a lab smoothly. All hazardous substances are to be managed
carefully to prevent the release of any toxic chemicals. There is a list of requirements
that are to be followed to prevent spills within the lab. The first requirement
is container management. All containers holding hazardous materials must be in
adequate shape and compatible with the chemicals being stored in them. This is important
because if they are not compatible, there could be complications including the
breaking down of the storage container, fires, explosions or the release of
toxic gases. All containers must be accessible to individuals working in the
lab.
The second requirement to prevent possible chemical spills
is good housekeeping. What this means is that all substances must be stored
properly within a building, and if the substances are not used regularly they
should be stored in designated areas. All containers are required to be closed
if no one is using them. Labs should have appropriate equipment to use as
collection devices if anything were to drip, this is very beneficial because it
can prevent larger spillage.
The third prevention is secondary containment. Secondary
containment is for a majority of substances that are ordered in bulk, or if
there is a chance in where chemicals could be being released secondary
containment is a precaution method. These should be checked periodically, to
see if anything has spilled. Checking periodically is important because if a
spill has occurred they need to be able to identify the chemical or chemicals
as soon as possible.
The last way in which lab personnel can prevent spills in
the lab is through appropriate labeling and markings. Lab personnel need to
ensure that all substances are properly labeled in accordance with local, state
and federal regulations. All chemicals bottles need to be marked and labeled
with what the chemical name and a short write up. All of these requirements are
information that is covered during employee training.
If a spill was to occur in a lab it is crucial to have a
spill response plan and the appropriate equipment to clean up or maintain the
spill. Spill response equipment must be in a visible area and located near
where individual may think that spill are to happen. All laboratories should
have a spill kit that are compatible with the chemicals being used in the lab.
Emergency response equipment needed to be reviewed and checked regularly to
make sure that the skill kit has everything needed and is complete.
Every lab should have a detailed emergency response plan
that is reviewed and is readily accessible in case a spill were to happen. This
plan should be immediately implemented in the case of a spill or chemical
release. It is essential to have a plan so that you know the measures that need
to be taken and that individuals are able to get away unharmed. If a spill is
to occur lab personnel need to contain the spill and prevent the chemicals from
entering into any drains. The lab should request for help and evacuate
depending on the severity of the spill. 
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