SLP/General/TBT-SLP-017
Spillage Clean-Up Procedures
Slips, Trips & Falls › General › Spillage Clean-Up Procedures
Toolbox Talk
Spillage Clean-Up Procedures
Spills of fuel, oil, chemicals, and other liquids on construction sites create immediate slip hazards and potential environmental pollution. A prompt, correct response prevents injuries, protects watercourses, and avoids enforcement action. Every operative should know where spill kits are located and how to use them. This talk covers the procedures for cleaning up spills safely on UK construction sites.
Key Hazards
Slip injuries from walking on oil, fuel, or chemical spills
Environmental prosecution from spills reaching drains or watercourses
Chemical burns from contact with spilled hazardous substances
Fire risk from fuel or solvent spills near ignition sources
Control Measures
- Report all spills to the site supervisor immediately, no matter how small.
- Contain the spill using absorbent pads, booms, or granules from the nearest spill kit.
- Block any nearby drains using drain covers or inflatable drain blockers to prevent pollution.
- Wear the PPE specified for the spilled substance: gloves, goggles, and coveralls as a minimum.
- Do not wash spills into drains, watercourses, or off the site boundary with water.
- Collect all used absorbent materials and dispose of them as hazardous waste if contaminated.
- Identify the spilled substance using the container label or safety data sheet before cleaning up.
- Keep spill kits stocked, accessible, and positioned near fuel stores, plant, and chemical areas.
- Brief all operatives on spill kit locations and the basic containment procedure during site induction.
Remember
- Report all spills immediately and contain them before they reach drains or watercourses
- Block nearby drains with covers or inflatable blockers before attempting clean-up
- Wear the correct PPE for the substance and never wash spills into drains with water
- Dispose of all used absorbent materials as hazardous waste if chemically contaminated
- Know the location of your nearest spill kit and how to use its contents
Applicable Legislation: Environmental Protection Act 1990 · Water Resources Act 1991 · COSHH 2002 · Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016
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