...part of the extended info series on How to prepare your Personal Emergency Plan | this page is also accessed via bit.ly/ChemicalSpillPreparedness
 | Scenario Chemical Spill / Contamination |
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1. ASSESS - know and recognize the hazards - familiarize yourself with the hazard symbols that appear on products that you use; ie HSE hazard pictograms and occupational use
- store and handle responsibly any chemicals you come into contact with
- know of any major manufacturing plants or laboratories in your neighborhood
- be aware of nearby transport routes (roads, highways, waterways, air corridors) that frequently transport hazardous materials
2. PREPARE for Chemical Spill- stock site safety products, spill kits, personal protective equipment PPE, display safety posters
- plan for a number of potential emergency scenarios for chemicals as appropriate, see HSE
- train & practise: get appropriate training to handle chemicals, first aid etc.
- be prepared to temporarily seal windows and doors if there is an external environmental spill
3. STAY SAFE during a Chemical Spill
- handle with extreme caution : place a barrier around spill for containment, signpost the area for safety, cover spill completely with appropriate materials, clean up then bag and tag for appropriate waste removal
- keep informed, tune in to radio, TV etc.
- follow guidance of the emergency services, shelter-in place or evacuate as advised
4. RECOVER after Chemical Spill
- follow public health and safety advice; HPA recovery handbook PDF now archived
- monitor that your drinking water is safe and that there are no other remaining contaminants or hazards in your environment
thank you for sharing!
Select Resources:
Advice: HSE essential COSHH guidance pubications; HSE Chemicals at work; HSE leaflets; Books: Household Chemicals and Emergency First Aid; Calculated Risks: The Toxicity and Human Health Risks of Chemicals in our Environment; Chemical Exposures: Low Levels and High Stakes; Biological and Chemical Terrorism: A Guide for Healthcare Providers and First Responders; Data: UK.Gov Oil and Chemical Spill Data; UK.Gov Chemical Hazards and Poisons report; CRHF.org Chemical Accident Histories; ICIS Guide to Chemical Disasters; Wiki list of industrial disasters; | 


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