Multiple lines of defense: That’s what Cameron O’Connor, product support specialist with New Pig, says facilities should have “to ensure industrial liquids stay in the processes and machines for which they are designed.”
What does that entail?
“A combination of secondary containment, absorbents, spill kits, stormwater protection and drain covers will help to ensure that a facility is truly ready for the unexpected,” O’Connor said.
Still, “It’s also important to remember that spill response products and control measures only work as well as the workers who use and deploy them.”
Ryan Schmidt, regional vice president of sales for Sellars Absorbent Materials, added: “Too many times I’ve seen a universal pad used in a hydrophobic (oil only) situation, and vice versa.”
Workers need to “use the correct product for the application,” he said.
Schmidt also noted that workers should know that “absorbent products are designed to soak up a significant amount of fluid and don’t need to be replaced after just a few drips.”
Steve Simpson, assistant general manager at Closed Loop Recycling, agrees.
“When using a reusable absorbent, it’s essential to fully utilize the product before placing it in the collection bin,” he said. “It’s vital to get employees off the ‘paper towel’ mentality, where they may grab four, five paper towels to do the job that one paper towel could have done, and then throw them all away. Instead, use one reusable product, let it become fully saturated and then dispose of it in the collection bin.”
Situations such as these are why O’Connor says spill defense isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. “Each situation may require different spill response products depending on the level of hazard associated with the spill,” she said. “Make sure your employees are properly trained on spill containment and spill response protocols for your facility. Having a diversified spill response plan is critical to being prepared for leaks and spills.”
Compiled with the assistance of the International Safety Equipment Association
Coming next month:
- Flame-resistant/ arc-rated clothing
- Flashlights/lighting
