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Although we never like it, we all know that spills happen even when you have all the preventative methods in place. Being ready and having the ability to respond quickly is critical in keeping people and the environment safe while reducing downtime and complying with spill control regulations.

Choosing the right spill kit and its content may feel overwhelming among the wide selections across types, sizes and container options. Here are five key questions that will help you choose the best spill kit for you.

1. What type of liquid has the potential to spill?

   Identifying the liquid will tell you how serious a threat it poses and the precautions needed to be taken. We can narrow down liquids to two types: corrosive and non-corrosive:

    

Knowing the type of liquid you have will help you determine the type of spill kit you need. Spill kits are first broken into three different categories: universal, oil only and chemical spill kits.

1. What spill volume are you preparing for?

   When considering the volume, think about your worst-case scenario in the area that you are preparing for. Look at the largest container in your facility and consider a spill kit that will contain that volume. There is a wide selection of spill kits available at ESP Canada that range from small mobile kits, truck spill kits, static larger kits, mobile kits and specialty kits.

2. What type of location could the spill happen?

   As a general rule, if a spill has happened indoors, use a maintenance product to absorb both oil-and-water based substances (technically referred to as hydrophilic).

   Oil-only absorbents are best used outdoors to absorb oil-based spills. Oil-only absorbents are hydrophobic, hence they repel water. Also, if a spill happens outdoors consider if you are on a hill or near water sources where the spill can run into (drains, rivers, etc.). ESP absorbent socks found in each spill kit help contain and keep the spill from spreading or contaminating water sources. For larger spills, consider adding land booms, water booms or containment burms.

   Chemical or toxic spills require polypropylene Meltblown absorbents that should be cleaned up with the correct protective equipment. We also have products that allow you to properly neutralize corrosive liquid or help eliminate hazardous vapors associated with the chemical.

   Custom build kits are also available to meet specific needs for particular locations and potential spills.

3. Where will the spill kit be stored or used?

   An important consideration to keep in mind is where the spill kit will be stored versus where a potentially spill can happen, how close is one from the other and if the spill kit is under lock. Your ability to access the spill kit to respond quickly is critical to contain the spill and keep everyone safe.

   ESP Canada has a wide range of spill kits that can be portable, stationary or wheeled for quick mobility and facilitate a quick response. Kits that are highly visible help to quickly locate and access the kit for a speedy response.

4. What to do and consider after the clean up?

After carefully and thoroughly cleaning up the spill using the appropriate sorbents, dispose of all used sorbents and other contaminated materials according to company standards and provincial/ federal regulations. If necessary, decontaminate the site, personnel and equipment.

Complete all required notifications and reports regarding the spill as mandated by the company and regulations.

Order a replacement kit or materials used in the spill to be fully stocked and fully prepared again.

ESP spill kits combine the best performers from all our technologies and present a tight, highly absorbent grouping of spill kits, which cover the market very well. Regardless of the size or type of the spill kit.

We hope this helps you to prepare all you need for any spill control. If you have any questions or would like us to help create a custom spill kit, give us a call and we’ll ensure you have what you need!