Whether you are running a manufacturing plant or an automotive workshop, the risk of accidental spills always exists that can lead to environmental damage, safety hazards, and costly fines for non-compliance with regulations. Moreover, improper handling of spills can also lead to damaging your equipment and property and heavy financial losses. Therefore, having a reliable and well-equipped oil spill kit is crucial to tackling all types of spills without overspending and compromising safety.
Oil spills are of different types and sizes, each designed for different spill types and environments. It often causes difficulties for business owners in deciding what type and sizes of kit will best suit their needs, resulting in costly mistakes and uninformed selections.
Tips to Choose a Reliable Spill Kit
With numerous options available, the selection of the right spill kit can be more challenging than it appears. However, having a complete understanding of the industry-specific regulations, considering key aspects, and implementing expert strategies can help you make an informed decision catered to your business-specific spill needs or requirements.
You can discover the essential tips and practical tricks to find a perfect oil spill kit for your business here;
Know Your Industry Needs
Understanding your industry’s spill needs and requirements is essential to making an informed and right selection. So make sure to thoroughly assess your industry needs and try to find out what type of spill kits you need, which sizes of kits will best suit your business requirements, and how much you are willing to spend for this purpose.
Understanding the oil spill needs of your industry is crucial not only to make an informed choice but also to set a realistic budget.
Identify the Types of Liquids You Handle
Before purchasing a spill kit, you need to assess the types of liquids that are commonly used in your operations. Oil spill kits are specifically designed to handle oils and hydrocarbons, but if you work with chemicals or hazardous substances as well, you may need a more versatile kit that can handle a broader range of liquids.
For example, universal spill kits can absorb both water-based and oil-based liquids, while chemical spill kits are designed to deal with acids, solvents, and other dangerous substances.
Determine the Potential Spill Size
Understanding the volume of liquid that could potentially spill is critical when choosing a kit. Spill kits come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging from small kits, which deal with minor leaks or drips, to large industrial kits capable of handling significant spills. For small spills, a 20 to 50-litre kit may suffice, while for larger facilities, a kit capable of handling 200 litres or more may be necessary.
Make sure to always evaluate the worst-case scenario and plan accordingly.
Consider the Type of Absorbents
Different oil spill kits come with varying types of absorbents, each designed for specific purposes. For oil-only spills, kits contain hydrophobic absorbents, which are designed to soak up oil without absorbing water. These are especially useful in marine environments. In contrast, universal kits include absorbents for both oil and non-oil liquids. Therefore, make sure that the absorbents in your kit are perfectly aligned with the types of spills you are likely to encounter.
Evaluate the Type of Spill Containment Tools
Most oil spill kits come with a variety of tools for spill containment, such as absorbent socks, booms, and pads. So, make sure to also check containment tools before making the final decision. A reliable spill kit always contains socks and booms, ideal for preventing the spill from spreading, pads for cleaning up the spilt liquid, and drain covers or spill berms, which are essential for preventing spilt oil from entering drainage systems or spreading over large areas.
Look for Kits with Clear Instructions
Looking for spill kits that come with clear, easy-to-follow instructions is also essential to make the right choice. The reason is that during an emergency, time is critical, and employees may not have the time to search for manuals or instructions. Kits with visible labels and straightforward step-by-step guides allow employees to act quickly and effectively in containing and cleaning the spill.
Consider Cost
Though the price is not the main criterion of selection, considering it is crucial to maintain financial balance. Spill kits costs can vary significantly depending on the sizes and types of spills and vendors credibility. You can ask for multiple quotes and compare them with average market rates to make a more informed and economic decision and avoid financial scams.
In a Nutshell
Investing in a reliable oil spill kit complemented by sturdy spill pallets for drums is no more a choice or just a precautionary measure but a crucial component of any business safety protocols to ensure property and equipment safety and environmental sustainability.
Making the right choice can be overwhelming for beginners and those unaware of the selection protocols but by following these practical tips you can effortlessly find the perfect spill kit for your business and ensure a safe and compliant workplace.
