Types of Spills

Chemical spills are categorized into two main types: Simple Chemical Spills and Complicated Chemical Spills.

Simple Chemical Spills

Simple spills are small, contained, and present minimal hazards. These spills can typically be managed by laboratory personnel.

• Neutralize or absorb the spill using appropriate materials.

• Contact Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) if you have any questions or concerns during the cleanup process.

Important: If the spilled material is hazardous, it must be managed as hazardous waste after cleanup. Please consult EHS for guidance on the proper disposal of all spill cleanup materials.

Complicated Chemical Spills

A spill is considered complicated if any of the following conditions apply:

• The identity of the chemical is unknown.

• Multiple chemicals are involved.

• The material is highly toxic, highly corrosive, flammable, or reactive.

• The spill occurred in a public or common area (e.g., hallways, lobbies).

• The spill threatens to spread to other areas, such as through ventilation systems.

• You are uncertain about how to safely clean up the spill.

If you answered "Yes" to any of the questions above, treat the incident as a Complicated Spill.

Response Procedures for Complicated Spills

1. Seek medical attention immediately if necessary.

2. Shut off equipment, if it can be done safely.

3. Evacuate the affected area as appropriate.

4. Alert nearby personnel and supervisors.

5. Contact EHS at (573) 882-7018.

   • After hours, on weekends, or during holidays, contact the University of Missouri Police Department at (573) 882-7201.

6. If safe to do so, take steps to contain the spill and prevent it from spreading.

7. Remain nearby to provide information to emergency responders.

8. Do not contact state or national chemical response hotlines without prior authorization from EHS, unless the spill poses an immediate, large-scale threat and EHS cannot be reached.

Spill Kits

EHS does not routinely provide spill kits to individual hazardous material users. However, to encourage preparedness, EHS has arranged for discounted pricing on select Fisher Scientific spill kits for University of Missouri laboratories.

• These kits can be ordered through the University's eProcurement system. Please contact your department’s fiscal officer for ordering assistance.

• Available kits and pricing details are listed in the table below..

These kits are designed to be as universal as possible; if you find that they do not suit your needs, call (573) 882-3736, or email hazmat@missouri.edu