The Deep Water Horizon Gulf of Mexico oil spill in April 2010 was the largest oil spill on record at that time. This catastrophe skyrocketed the topic of spill response to the forefront of the public eye with nationwide media coverage. However, there have always been spills of varying sizes, ranging from small workplace spills to larger spills on a highway or railroad. It’s important to be aware of the requirements for response, coordination and cleanup.
The laws enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 40 CFR Part 112 (Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasures — SPCC) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29 CFR 1910.120 (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response - HAZWOPER) are essential to help secure the safety and health of our most valuable environmental resources, as well as to ensure the safety and health of those whose job it is to respond and clean up in the event of a spill. It’s important to know where information can be found when a spill of any size happens, as even the smallest spill can have significant impact.
Here are some resource links to help with spill response.
Quick Tips #146: Emergency Spill Response
Quick Tips #147: Spill Cleanup: Assessing Your Needs
Quick Tips #148: Neutralizing Acids and Bases
Quick Tips #243: PPE for Spill Cleanup
Quick Tips #308: Decontamination from an Emergency Spill Response
Quick Tips #317: Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasures (SPCC) Plans, 40 CFR 112
29 CFR 1910.120: Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response
Oil Spill Cleanup: Safety and Health Awareness for Oil Spill Cleanup Workers
OSHA Fact Sheet - Deep Water Horizon/Mississippi Canyon 252 Oil Spill
Deepwater Horizon Response: Gulf of Mexico Oil Cleanup
Emergency Preparedness and Response
Safety Checklist Program for Schools
Oil Spill Cleanup Garment Options
Personal Protective Equipment for Oil Spill Response
NOAA – Office of Response and Restoration
Chemical Safety Board Video Room
The information contained in this article is intended for general information purposes only and is based on information available as of the initial date of publication. No representation is made that the information or references are complete or remain current. This article is not a substitute for review of current applicable government regulations, industry standards, or other standards specific to your business and/or activities and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the applicable standards or consult with an attorney.
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