| Hazardous Spill Emergencies |
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Before using any hazardous material, you should carefully read the label and material safety data sheet (MSDS). Understanding your material will allow you to make split-second emergency decisions should an accident occur. |
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 Your priorities in the event of a spill are: |
- The prevention and treatment of injuries.
- The prevention of environmental contamination.
- The protection of property.
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Your response to the spill should proceed as follows (adapted from UWO Human Resources website): |
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 Step One |
- Immediately alert all lab occupants that you have had a spill.
- If there is an immediate risk to room occupants, EVACUATE the lab and close the door behind you.
- If the spill presents an immediate risk to individuals outside the lab, use the nearest Fire Alarm pull station to EVACUATE the building.
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| Step Two |
- Assist any injured individuals from the area ONLY if this does not put you at risk. If anyone is left behind, make certain emergency responders are aware of their location and condition.
- If the Fire alarm has been pulled, wait outside the building and inform emergency responders that you were the one who activated the alarm and describe the nature of the emergency.
- If the Fire alarm has not been pulled, contact UWO Police at 911 (on a UWO campus phone) to request any necessary help (Hazmat, Ambulance, First Aid etc). On a cell phone, you must dial 519-661-3300.
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| Step Three |
- NEVER open a window in the lab. While this will clear the air in the lab, it will distribute gasses through the entire building. If available, place lab fumehoods into emergency mode.
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| Step Four |
- If it is safe to remain in the lab, ELIMINATE any sources of ignition from near the spill. Take measures to prevent the spill from entering floor drains or sink drains.
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| Step Five |
- Use your laboratory spill kit to control and clean up the spill, ONLY is you have the necessary personal protective equipment. If not ask University Police to contact the Hazardous Materials Spill Response Team.
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