Protecting the Environment

World Soil Day is a perfect time to emphasise the damage that can be caused by mishandling of hazardous liquids. Even small spills and leaks can have a catastrophic consequence. We all have our part to play in protecting the environment for future generations.

Over the years, we have been made aware of the horrendous results that incorrect handling processes, inadequate knowledge and training have had on people, businesses and environment. All of which could have been avoided or easily contained, if managed correctly.

Spills can quickly escalate and lead to disastrous results.

Wherever you are storing your liquid containers you should ensure suitable secondary containment is in place to prevent spills and leaks on any surface. Spills on hard surfaces are often easier to see, but spills still occur from drums and IBCs stored on soft ground such as soil or grass areas, often going unnoticed. Spills can easily run into drains or into a downhill grass verge with liquids seeping into soil and eventually reaching waterways. Once in the soil or waterways irreversible damage can be caused to the environment and wildlife.

Common chemical pollutants include agricultural pesticides and fertilizers, household cleaning products and chemicals used in industry. Its not always hazardous chemicals, pollution can be caused by something as simple as milk if it leaks into an uncontrolled area, so caution must be taken with all liquids. Spills which aren’t contained, can easily get out of control. As well as serious environmental consequences, the legal implications for a business can also be severe if you lose control of a spill.

That’s why it’s vital to firstly have correct storage and handling processes in place, as well as understanding your on-site drainage system. It is also vital to have trained spill response staff, who can deal with spills and leaks, because accidents happen.

Solution not pollution

Having the correct spill control in place, will keep your business compliant and your workforce and the environment safe.

• Ensure the correct liquid handling equipment is available


• Clearly identify your drains on-site and direction of flow


• Store drums and liquid containers correctly, using spill pallets and dispensing units


• Safely store items within bunds


• Ensure you have the correct emergency spill kits, located in the right place


• Ensure you have correctly trained spill response staff

 

We all have a responsibility in protecting the environment. Spillcraft can help with a spill control solution, providing free of charge spill site surveys to detail your ‘at risk’ areas. We also provide spill response training, to give you peace of mind in the event of an emergency.

More information about World Soil Day can be found here

Contact us on T: 01606 352 679 or E: [email protected]