Defining Major or Minor SpillSpills will be either: minor or major, depending on the volume, location, and hazard of the substance spilled. If any of the following apply, the spill is considered major1. Quantity – As a guide, if more than 100 ml/grams of the highly hazardous chemical (carcinogen) or 1 liter/1000 grams, reactive or corrosive (acid or base) liquid/solid. For some substances, for example, mercury or DHF evacuation should be considered at < 100mL.2. Hazard - If the chemical presents an immediate threat to human health or safety or the environment; is unknown, or is an immediate fire hazard such as an uncontrolled gas leak.A major chemical spill will usually result in the immediate evacuation of the area,A minor chemical spill is one that the individual can clean up.Major Spill ResponseProtect yourself. Don’t touch harmful substances. Be aware that fumes may pose a risk.Evacuate the laboratory. If possible, as you leave, close doors to prevent further contamination and turn off any ignition sources.Isolate and control access to the spill area. Do not allow non-essential personnel to enter the spill area.Raise the alarm. Contact the Safety dept., Fire dept. and time officeMinor Spill ResponseEnsure you are wearing the correct PPCE to respond to the spill.Immediately notify others in the area of the spill.Identify the chemical/s and hazards involved (SDS, label) and use the information on the physical and chemical properties of the material to judge response.If there is chemical exposure to a worker, respond as quickly as possible to administer appropriate first aid.Contain the spill with a barrier (damming) or use appropriate absorbent material from the spill kit.spill kit compatible material matrix1. For acid spills (except HF)Sodium carbonate, Sodium bicarbonate, Calcium carbonate, Calcium bicarbonateDo not use absorbent clay for acid spills2. For Hydrofluoric acid (HF) spillsCalcium carbonate, Calcium bicarbonate3. Hydrofluoric acid (HF) spillsabsorbent clay, vermiculite, some other nonreactive absorbent material like sand4. Alkali spillsDry sand, Neutralizers like boric acid or citric acid5. Oil, Solvent, or Aqeous westSand, Spill kit