Collection: Spill Kits

A spill kit is a specialised set of absorbent materials, personal protective equipment (PPE), and disposal tools designed to quickly contain and clean up hazardous liquid spills in the workplace. Workplaces need spill kits to ensure fast and effective response to accidental leaks of substances such as oils, chemicals, fuels, or sewage, helping to prevent slip hazards, workplace injuries, property damage, and environmental contamination.

Workplace spill kits are available in several types to address different hazards, including oil spill kits, chemical spill kits, and general purpose (universal) spill kits.​

Oil spill kits, also called oil-only or hydrocarbon spill kits, are designed to absorb petroleum-based liquids such as oils, fuels, and solvents. The absorbents in these kits repel water while soaking up oil, making them suitable for spills on land and water, including outdoor areas and near waterways.​

Chemical spill kits (also referred to as hazmat spill kits) are made for hazardous chemicals, acids, caustics, and other aggressive substances. These include specialised absorbents and neutralisers to safely handle and clean up chemical leaks in laboratories, factories, and chemical storage areas.​

General purpose or universal spill kits are versatile kits that can absorb both water-based and oil-based liquids, including coolants and mild chemicals. These spill kits are ideal for factory floors, warehouses, and other mixed-use environments where various types of minor spills can occur.

A workplace spill kit should contain essential safety and cleanup supplies designed for fast response to hazardous spills. Standard spill kit contents include personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and coveralls; absorbent pads, mats, or powder specific to the substance type; disposal bags for safe waste containment; and containment booms or absorbent socks to stop further spread of the spill.​

Typical Spill Kit Components
Personal protective equipment (PPE): gloves, goggles, coveralls to shield workers from hazardous substances.​

Absorbent materials: pads, mats, loose absorbent powder, or pillows suited to oil, chemical, or general liquid spills.​

Containment items: absorbent socks and booms to contain or divert liquids and prevent wider contamination.​

Waste disposal bags or containers: for collected used absorbents, PPE, and contaminated materials.​

Instructions and spill response guide: clear steps for safe spill cleanup and disposal.​

Optional cleanup tools: scoop, dustpan, or mini broom for collecting debris and managing powder absorbents.​

A well-equipped spill kit should be tailored to the types of substances present in the workplace and regularly checked to ensure readiness for compliance and effective workplace safety.

To use a spill kit safely in the workplace, begin by quickly assessing the spill to ensure it is safe to approach, then put on the recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and coveralls. Stop the leak at the source if possible, and use absorbent socks or booms to contain the spill and prevent further spread, especially near drains or sensitive areas.​
Carefully apply the absorbent materials included in the spill kit (pads, powder, or pillows) directly onto the spill, allowing them to soak up the liquid completely. Once absorbed, use provided cleanup tools if needed, then place all used absorbents and contaminated PPE into the disposal bags supplied in the kit for safe handling and waste removal. After cleanup, follow workplace procedure for spill reporting, replace used kit contents, and ensure the spill area is properly decontaminated and safe for use.​
Always follow specific instructions included with your spill kit and provide proper spill response training for employees to guarantee compliance and effective workplace safety.​