Environmental Health & Safety Office
Georgetown University Medical Center
LM-12 Preclinical Science Building       3900 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007

202-687-4712   (facsimile) 202-687-5046

SPILLS

Most spills in the laboratory involve relatively small quantities of chemicals which can be readily neutralized and cleaned by laboratory personnel. It is recommended that the laboratory supervisor be notified and that spill control procedures be performed under his/her supervision. Consult the GUMC Chemical Hygiene Plan for additional information. Arrange for disposal of waste chemicals with SEM (7-6913).

If a spill is minor and lab staff can safely clean-up the spill, contact SEM for disposal of waste containers. If a spill is of such size and/or poses a potential hazard such that additional assistance or equipment is required, contact 7-HELP. Give the following information:

• Name of person calling
• Type of spill and approximate quantity
• Location: building, floor, and room number

When it is safe to do so, the following general safety measures should be taken while waiting for assistance:

1. If a flammable liquid spilled, shut down all electrical equipment and extinguish all potential ignition sources.
2. If volatile chemicals are involved, open windows for ventilation (but close doors).
3. If an infectious or particulate agent is involved, close all windows and shut off ventilation.
4. Clear laboratory of all personnel.
5. Close all doors to corridor or adjacent rooms. Hang an appropriate warning sign on the door.

Laboratory or Area Decontamination

If chemicals are spilled on the floor or work area, seek the advice of your supervisor or Safety and Environmental Management (SEM 7-6913).

When cleaning up spills, wear safety glasses, lab coat, and gloves impermeable to the substance, apply an absorbent material which will neutralize the liquids. Work from the perimeter of the liquid spill inward and then use a dust pan to collect solid materials into a bag. If the spill is on the floor, some absorbent should be sprinkled on the spot to prevent slipping. Do not use vermiculite.

Prior to using a spill kit, ensure that by using the kit you are not exposing yourself to a hazardous situation. When in doubt, stay out and call SEM for assistance. If water or some other agent is used as a for dilution, be sure it is compatible with the spilled material and other chemicals in the area. The laboratory supervisor will be responsible for designating the proper cleanup procedure. Warn everyone to extinguish flames and turn off spark-producing equipment such as brush-type motors and bunsen burners. Shut down all equipment, close the doors and windows, and vacate the room until it is decontaminated.

Wall-mounted spill control stations containing agents for absorbing and neutralizing such spills should be located in readily accessible storage areas in the laboratories. Clean-up kits for mercury, cyanide, hydrofluoric acid, and other spills are commercially available. Purchase replacement kits when necessary or call EH&S (7-4712) for advice.

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