Chemical Spills
This page provides guidance for responding to chemical spills in campus laboratories and work areas. It outlines the steps to take during high-hazard emergency spills and non-emergency spills, including when to evacuate, who to contact and how to manage cleanup safely.
High-Hazard Emergency Spills
A high-hazard emergency spill is defined as a chemical spill that is immediately dangerous to life and health due to the chemical properties (i.e. toxicity, reactivity) and/or volume of spilled material; involves a radioactive material; or involves an infectious agent. If the spill falls into one of these categories, the following emergency procedures must be followed:
- Cease all activities.
- Evacuate the spill area.
- Pull fire alarm if building evacuation is required.
- Call 911 (ensures that fire and police will respond).
- Seek immediate medical attention if necessary.
- If possible, call Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) at 765-494-0121.
- Keep people out of the spill area.
- Do not re-enter the area until emergency personnel advise that it is safe to do so.
- Account for all employees and report missing persons to emergency personnel.
If you are unsure whether the spill is considered an emergency situation, do not hesitate to evacuate the area and call 911 for assistance.
Non-Emergency Spills
In general, small spills should be absorbed and collected. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for specific instructions on spill response. Decontaminate the spill area with a mild soap solution if needed. Proper personal protective equipment must be worn at all times when cleaning up spills and should include at minimum gloves, goggles and a lab coat.
Once the spill has been cleaned, collect all spill debris in an appropriate container and submit it to Environmental Health and Safety for pickup using the EHSA system. For questions about proper spill cleanup procedures or if assistance is needed, call EHS at 765-494-0121 during normal business hours (Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4:30 p.m.).
For non-emergency spills after normal business hours, call the Purdue Public Safety Dispatch Center at 765-494-8221. Dispatchers will contact EHS for assistance.