What is the safe procedure for cleaning up spills on a deck?

• A. Contain the spill, deploy absorbent material, cordon off area, ventilate if needed, and dispose of contaminated material per SOP; do not leave hazard.
• B. Ignore the spill and continue.
• C. Wash with water only.
• D. Move the spill to a different area.

Answer: (A)

Preventing spread and exposure is the priority when a spill occurs. Start by containing the spill so it cannot flow or pool into hazardous areas. Then deploy absorbent material to soak up the liquid and reduce slickness. Cordon off the area to keep others from stepping into the spill and to prevent contact with any fumes or residues. If fumes could be a factor, ventilate the area to improve air quality and reduce inhalation risk. Finally, dispose of all contaminated cleanup materials according to the standard operating procedure to prevent reintroduction of the hazard elsewhere. Leaving the spill unattended, washing with water only, or simply moving it to another area fails to control the hazard and can create new risks for people and the environment.