Are you using the correct spill products?

Selecting the right absorbent for a spill depends on the type of liquid involved, the volume of the spill, and the environment in which the spill occurs. Educating your staff in spill response will give them the confidence to manage spills correctly. Training your spill responders in correct equipment selection not only ensures an efficient clean up procedure, it will also save you money as less of the correct absorbents will be required.

We have designed a handy absorbent selection guide which is free to download and can be used for training, or as a sign to remind operators of the products to use

How do we know which products to use?

Here's a guide to help you select the appropriate absorbent:

1. Identify the Type of Spill

• Oil-Based Liquids: Includes motor oil, fuel, lubricants, and other hydrocarbons.
• Hazardous and aggressive liquids: Includes acids, alkalis, solvents, and other potentially dangerous chemicals.
• General Spills of non aggressive liquids: Includes water, coolants, and other aqueous, non-aggressive solutions.

2. Match the Absorbent to the Spill Type

• Oil-Only Absorbents: These are hydrophobic (repel water) and oleophilic (attract oil). Use them for oil and hydrocarbon-based spills on land or water. They are typically white in colour.
• General purpose absorbents: These are also known as maintenance absorbents. General purpose absorbents will absorb both oil-based and water-based liquids, making them versatile for general spill control. They are typically grey in colour.
• Chemical Absorbents: Specifically designed for hazardous chemical spills. They are typically yellow in colour, highlighting the hazardous substance it has been used for.

3. Consider the Form of the Absorbent

• Pads and Rolls: Good for surface spills or for placing under leaky equipment.
• Socks and Booms: Useful for containing or blocking spills from spreading.
• Granular Absorbents: Ideal for large spills on flat, smooth surfaces. They can be spread over the spill and then swept up.
• Pillows: Useful for absorbing larger quantities of liquid in a confined space.

By understanding these factors, you can select the right absorbent for any spill situation, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations.

How do I know I am using the correct absorbent?

If you are unsure which absorbent type and colour to use, seek advise. Spill management suppliers will be able to advise you over the phone  if you have a specific liquid you need help with. You should also refer to your safety data sheet for any liquids to ensure compatibility.

If you need additional guidance for spills for you or your team consider undertaking spill response training to prepare you for emergencies. We often see investment into fire extinguisher training and first aid training to protect people from harm, but spills can be just as harmful so its crucial you are prepared. Essential training can be carried out in under an hour with opportunities to practice understanding. Or more detailed training is available depending on the roles of the delegates in attendance. 

Find out more about the training sessions we can provide for you and your team here

Don't forget your free user absorbent guide, please feel free to use these as signage near spill control equipment to remind your teams on the different types of absorbent and how they should be applied.