
http://drs.illinois.edu
217-333-2755
drs@illinois.edu
217-333-2755
drs@illinois.edu
Preventing Spills
Take the following precautions to help prevent spills:
General
- Reduce clutter and unnecessary materials in the work area;
- Eliminate tripping hazards and other obstructions;
- Have all necessary equipment readily available before starting work;
- Periodically check equipment (e.g., fume hoods, biological safety cabinets, sinks, lab benches) for signs of deterioration.
Storage
- Use sturdy shelves with lips;
- Store containers away from shelf edges;
- Store large containers on lower shelves;
- Store chemicals in compatible containers, that can be closed tightly;
- Store chemicals by compatibility class and then alphabetically;
- Inspect the storage area regularly for leaky and defective containers;
- Store highly hazardous liquids in sealed, chemical-resistant secondary containers.
Transportation
- Use carts and secondary containment to transport items;
- Use bottle carriers for any glass bottle greater than 250 ml;
- Use straps to secure gas cylinders;
- Use plastic-coated, shatter resistant bottles, if appropriate.
Dispensing chemicals
- Pay careful attention to the size of containers to avoid overflowing;
- When transferring chemicals from containers greater than 4 L use pumps or other mechanical devices instead of pouring chemicals;
- Pour from an original container into a large mouth beaker first;
- Use funnels to pour into small openings;
- Work in secondary containment to capture leaks and spills.
Last Update: 7/8/2015