Small-Scale Chemical Spill Kits

Find out what to include in a laboratory-scale spill kit and when to use it.

Purpose

Keep small-scale spill kits in every lab for small, incidental chemical spills. An incidental spill is one that staff can clean up without putting themselves or others in danger. All other spills should be cleaned up by specially trained personnel.

• Read How to Handle Chemical Spills in Laboratories for detailed instructions.

Contents

Spill kits must contain certain items (listed below) in addition to equipment and supplies appropriate for the chemicals commonly used in your lab. Restock them whenever a spill occurs.

Spill kits must include:

• A storage container with a UCSD spill kit label. Here are 2 ways to get labels:
  • Print your own labels (PDF).
  • Send an e-mail request for free, preprinted labels to either of these 2 sources:
    • Chemistry & Biochemistry Stockroom
    • Environment, Health & Safety
• Appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves, coats, and goggles
• Absorbent materials made for the chemicals in your lab, such as organic solvent or corrosive spill pads
• Materials or equipment for chemicals with special handling requirements
• Plastic bags to contain the waste

Sample spill kit

The table below lists an appropriate inventory for a lab that handles mercury. Modify this list to suit your chemical inventory.

All items are available from UCSD's Chemistry & Biochemistry Stockroom, (858) 534-2017.