Deploying A Spill Kit
Many environmentally aware companies in Britain have one or more spill kits on their site, around their machinery or in their vehicles. This can help in several ways, with compliance, safety and even insurance. However, how many companies actually know how to correctly deploy a spill kit, and how to optimise the contents for maximum absorbency? In this brief article we run through how a kit is packed, and exactly how to use the products.
Firstly, how the spill kit is packed, is dependent on the size of the kit. Smaller spill kits, (15, 20 & 25 litre) are packed in a clip close carrier, medium sized spill kits (50 litre) are packed in a vinyl holdall, and larger spill kits (120 & 240 litre) are packed in wheeled bins.
1. Absorbent Socks
The absorbent socks are packed in the top of the kit. These products can be used to control the perimeter of a spill, to stop the fluid spreading. This is essential to ensure that spilt oils and hazardous fluids do no enter any drains or waterways. Absorbent socks are usually 1.2 metres in length and should be overlapped to achieve complete protection against fluid flow.
2. Absorbent Pads
The most common element in any spill scenario. Absorbent pads or mats are used to absorb the bulk of fluid that is lying on the ground. Absorbent pads should be placed behind the absorbent socks that are surrounding the perimeter of a spill and will absorb most of the spilt fluid. Absorbent pads are packed secondly in the kit, again to absorb the bulk of the fluid before it can go through the absorbent socks.
3. Absorbent Pillows
Absorbent pillows are packaged under the absorbent pads. These are used to absorb pooled fluids and remaining bulk fluids. On a larger spill, these can be used to help control the perimeter and support the absorbent pads and socks. These products represent a large proportion of the absorbent capacity of the kit.
