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Large scale discharges are rare but they do sometimes occur.
Tanks rupture. Valves are left open. Gaskets burst.
If you are the first person to discover an uncontrolled discharge,
your job is to initiate the 'discharge procedure protocols' for your facility.
Discharge procedure protocols describe how emergency responders
will deal with a large scale oil spill and are included or referenced
in your SPCC Plan.
Let's review what just happened:
If you discover an uncontrolled spill,
the first rule is do not endanger yourself.
If the leak is continuing, try to stop or slow the flow.
If a pump or open valve is causing the leak and you can stop or slow it
without risking exposure or injury, do so.
Then, quickly collect as much information as you can about the spill.
The exact location and time.
The type of oil released and the total quantity.
The source of the discharge and is it still leaking?
The cause of the incident.
Any damage or injuries?
Actions you have taken or plan to take to mitigate the discharge.
If you think that evacuation is needed.
Once you've gathered this information,
make the call to the responsible person.
The SPCC Plan will have his or her name and telephone number,
pager number, or cell phone number.
The responsible person will then initiate the most effective
response measures based on your information.
He or she will notify emergency response teams, if needed,
and arrange for supplies.
Local, state or federal authorities may also be notified.
After the call, your job is to stand by and stay in communication
until the responders arrive.
While waiting, if you can do so safely and you have had proper training,
take 'defensive measures' to mitigate the effects of the spill.
If there are any hot or spark producing activities in the area
like welding, stop them quickly.
Keep others away from the spill.
Place barricades or string CAUTION tape around the area.
Then locate the nearest spill kit or spill response supplies.
Staying well away from the spill, place absorbents or booms to prevent
the spill from escaping the site.
Downhill and across the flow pathway.
Between the spill and any streams, nearby waterways,
floor drains or storm drain inlets.
Or better yet, place covers over drain inlets.