Spill Response Checklist

Step 1 – Identify basic information on the spill:

• Material involved
• Time of spill
• Volume and location of spill, and whether migration likely
• Whether injury occurred 

Step 2 – Emergency evacuation may be required. If so:

• Sound alarms, make announcements
• Prevent others from entering spill area

Step 3 – Immediate action may be necessary, consulting Safety Data Sheet:

• Obtain medical assistance for injury
• Stop spill from continuing, obtaining personal protective equipment if necessary
• Prevent sources of ignition for flammable materials
• Prevent spill from spreading, blocking pathways
• Contain spill

Step 4 – Notification of governmental authorities and others may be required or prudent:

• Identify applicable reporting requirements from laws, rules, and permits
• Make notification as required by law and notify neighbors if appropriate

Step 5 – Notification of facility managers and other company officials as appropriate

Step 6 – Respond and clean up as required by law

• Obtain and review any Safety Data Sheets that may be applicable.
• Is the spill an OSHA incidental release that an employee can address or is an OSHA emergency response required by properly trained employees?
• Is on site cleanup equipment appropriate?
• Call outside contractor?
• Manage waste materials in accordance with law.

Step 7 – Document events, notification, and response actions as soon as practicable.

Step 8 – Make written follow-up reports to government agencies and others as required by law.

Step 9 – Review spill to determine root cause and opportunities for prevention of similar spills.

TIPS:

• Because there are many different types of materials that may be spilled, additional requirements applicable to specific types of materials may not be listed here.
• If there is a facility Spill Response Plan, be sure to follow it.
• If early information provided to others is determined incomplete or inaccurate, provide additional information.
• This is a general guide and not legal advice. Please consult an environmental attorney if you need advice on spills, response, or waste management.