Emergency Response

Chemical Spills

Emergency Actions

In the event a chemical is splashed on a person:

• Wash the effect area with water for 15 minutes with running water.
• Remove any contaminated clothing.
• If medical treatment is needed, call 9-911 immediately.
• Obtain a Material Safety Data Sheet for the chemical, if available.
• Notify lab instructor and EHS

In the event a chemical is splashed in a person’s eyes:

• Flush eyes with water for fifteen minutes using an eye wash station.
• If medical treatment is needed, call 9-911 immediately.
• Obtain a Material Safety Data Sheet for the chemical, if available.
• Notify lab instructor and EHS

In the event a person becomes ill from inhaling a chemical vapor:

• Remove the person to fresh air.
• If medical treatment is necessary, call 9-911 immediately.
• Obtain a Material Safety Data Sheet for the chemical, if available.
• Notify lab instructor and EHS.

In the event of a spill:

• Notify the lab instructor.
• Report the spill to the Environmental, Health, & Safety Office (x3125 or cell (515) 402-3275) regardless of quantity spilled.
• Secure the area by having other students, staff and faculty move away from spill.
• Obtain a Material Safety Data Sheet for the spilled chemical.
• Do not switch on lights or other electrical equipment, as spark could ignite combustible vapors that are present and cause a fire.

Clean-Up for Minor Spill:

• Only trained personnel should clean –up spills.
• Contact Environmental, Health, & Safety Office (x3125) for assistance.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Contain spill using appropriate material that is found in the spill kits located in each lab.
• Use paper towels to wipe up spill. Paper towels are hazardous waste, do not dispose in trash.
• Wash area with an appropriate amount of water. Wipe up water with paper towels.

Clean-Up for Major Spill:

• Evacuate the area.
• Contact the Environmental, Health, and Safety Specialist at (x3125 or cell (515)402-3275).