Environment, Health and Safety

5.4.4 Major Spills

5.4.4 Major Spills

A major spill is any chemical spill for which the researcher determines they need outside assistance to safely clean up a spill. EHS is activated to assist with spill cleanup whenever Cornell Police are notified of a spill by calling 911 from a campus phone or 607-255-1111 from a cell phone or off campus phone.

5.4.4.1 Major Spill Cleanup Procedures

5.4.4.1 Major Spill Cleanup Procedures

When a spill occurs that you are not capable of handling: 

  • Alert people in the immediate area of the spill and evacuate the room. 
  • If an explosion hazard is present, do not unplug, or turn electrical equipment on or off – doing so can result in a spark and ignition source. 
  • Confine the hazard by closing doors as you leave the room. 
  • Use eyewash or safety showers as needed to rinse spilled chemicals off people or yourself. 
  • Evacuate any nearby rooms that may be affected. If the hazard will affect the entire building, then evacuate the entire building by pulling the fire alarm. 
  • Notify Cornell Police by calling 911 or using a Blue Light or Emergency Telephone. Always call from a safe location.

Be prepared to provide Cornell Police with the following information:

  • Where the spill occurred (building and room number).
  • If there are there any injuries and if medical attention is needed.
  • The identity of the spilled material(s) - be prepared to spell out the chemical names.
  • The approximate amount of material spilled.
  • How the spill occurred (if you know).
  • Any immediate actions you took.
  • Who first observed the spill and the approximate time it occurred.
  • Where you will meet emergency responders, or provide a call back number (if available).
  • Once outside, notify emergency responders of the location, nature and size of the spill. Isolate contaminated persons and protect yourself and others from chemical exposure.