06 Jul Avoid the risk: choosing the right spill kit

Spill kits have been designed to act as a one-stop solution for a quick and effective response to spillages. However, businesses still need to understand the bigger picture when it comes to choosing the one that’s right for each facility. In fact, having the wrong spill kit on site could even be dangerous, so knowing what to look out for is extremely important. 

Key considerations
It’s important to be aware of the consequences of having the wrong type of spill kit on site. This is because an incompatible kit will prevent you from cleaning up any spillage correctly and increase the likelihood of a harmful chemical reaction. In addition, look for the right absorbency levels – a kit that cannot handle the right volume might do more harm than good in an extreme case.    

Similarly, kits with low absorbency stock levels can quickly lead to disaster during a spillage. Even the right kit could prove ineffective in such a case. There are also further technical considerations when choosing the right spill kit. Take drain protection, for example. Always double check that the drain protection in your kits matches the drain size on site to prevent spilled liquids from escaping. 

The final thought is around personal protection equipment (PPE). Never put any individual at risk by using incorrect PPE. While most spill kits come with their own PPE, it’s important to note that this may not be appropriate for handling all liquids – always ensure maximum compatibility. 

Making the right decision
Although the variety of spill kits on offer can seem a little overwhelming, your decision really comes down to the type of spill that is likely to occur, the type of liquid, and transportability. Firstly, make a list of the type of liquids that you might (potentially) need to absorb – this will help you identify the spill kit that’s right for you. Different kits are specifically tailored to certain liquids, so for example, are you handling fuels and oils, or liquids such as coolants? 

Next, try to identify how much liquid might be spilled at any one time (if for example, liquids are stored in certain-sized drums or vats inside your facility). This will help you understand the largest capacity you’ll need to absorb. Finally, always locate your spill kits strategically, but if this is not possible, choose a spill kit that can be transported easily and quickly around your site.   

Contact us
Working across several industries, we have developed a detailed understanding of different requirements to provide practical and cost-effective spill prevention solutions. Contact one of our experts to discuss the ideal spill kit for your needs.