What To Do When An Oil Spill Occurs

This Emergency Spill Response Guide can be used as a step-by-step guide to deal with any sudden oil or fuel spillage.
You can Download this guide in PDF format.

1. Assess Risk to Health & Environment

 Identify type of spill & minimise risks. If uncertain contact emergency services/emergency spill response team. Report to Environment Agency on 0800 807060.

2. Select Spill Response Equipment

 Select appropriate personal protection, spill control equipment and fire safety apparatus to manage spill and ensure safety. Avoid detergents or hosing away spill.

3. Contain Spill

 Deploy equipment to prevent spill entering receptors such as drains, water courses, roads and other vulnerable areas. Secure spill area, block roads, evacuate as needed.

4. Stop Leak at Source

 Turn off valves/taps, plug holes, realign barrels/containers, stop delivery, etc... to stem flow of spillage. Ensure all sources of spill are isolated. Stop leak first if possible.

5. Re-evaluate Incident & Begin Clean Up

 Assess impact of spill on environment, human health and property. Develop action plan and commence clear up process. Report to Local Health Authority as necessary.

6. Decontaminate Area & Personnel

 Remove and dispose of contaminated materials in-line with COSHH guidelines. Ensure responders and affected area is decontaminated. Minimise pollution/health and safety risks.

7. Report Incident & Replace Equipment

 Record and report spill as per company/insurance policy. Inform Local Health Authority. Replenish equipment, identify new apparatus required to manage future spills.

8. Ground Investigation & Validation Reporting

 Oil in the ground and groundwater can pose long term environmental and health risks, which can affect the value of property. Qualified personnel should assess these risks.

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