Trivia Quiz: What Do You Know About Biological & Chemical Spills?

The given definition of a spill states that it is an accidental release of a substance from its intended container into the lab, facility, or natural environment. This definition accurately describes a spill, as it emphasizes that it is an unintended occurrence. Therefore, the correct answer is true.

The contaminated chemical spill sorbents, PPE, and paper towels should be disposed of by labeling them as chemical waste and placing them in the appropriate hazardous waste holding area. This is the correct answer because these items have come into contact with hazardous chemicals and therefore need to be treated as hazardous waste. Placing them in the regular garbage or the dumpster out back would not be safe or environmentally responsible.

The spill kit should be posted/kept with the spill kit poster, spill response job aid, and spill response SOP. This is because these materials provide important information and instructions on how to effectively respond to a spill. The spill kit poster serves as a visual guide for the location of the spill kit and its contents. The spill response job aid provides step-by-step instructions on how to handle a spill, while the spill response SOP outlines the standard operating procedures for spill response. Having all three of these materials ensures that individuals have access to the necessary information and resources in case of a spill.

Handling chemical and biological materials can pose risks to the environment, workplace, and employees. Chemical materials may have the potential to cause pollution or contamination if not handled properly, leading to environmental risks. In the workplace, mishandling of these materials can result in accidents, fires, or explosions, posing risks to the physical safety of workers and the overall workplace. Moreover, employees who handle these materials may be exposed to harmful substances, leading to health risks such as chemical burns, respiratory problems, or infections. Therefore, all the options mentioned - risk to the environment, workplace, and employees - are valid risks associated with handling chemical and biological materials.

All of the above options should be worn when cleaning up a spill to ensure personal safety. A lab coat or uniform protects the body from coming into direct contact with the spill, nitrile gloves protect the hands from chemical exposure, and goggles or a face shield protect the eyes from splashes or fumes. Wearing all of these PPE items together provides comprehensive protection during the cleanup process.

When cleaning up a spill involving broken glass, it is important to prioritize safety. Sweeping broken glass into a disposable bag may lead to injuries as the glass can easily puncture through the bag. Similarly, picking up broken glass with bare hands can result in cuts and injuries. The correct approach is to carefully retrieve the broken glass using forceps, which provide a safe and controlled grip, and then place the glass in a sharps container specifically designed for the disposal of sharp objects like broken glass. This ensures proper handling and minimizes the risk of injury.

The first thing you should do once a spill has occurred is to notify your manager and others of the spill. This is important because it ensures that the appropriate actions can be taken to address the spill and prevent any potential hazards or accidents. It also helps to inform others in the vicinity so that they can be cautious and avoid the area until the spill is cleaned up.

The correct answer is "All of the above." This means that the EHS Emergency Spill Hotline must be activated for all scenarios mentioned in the question, including chemical spills (non-reactive) greater than 1 litre, reactives (any quantity), and oxidizers (any quantity).

The correct answer is to notify the manager and others of the spill, retrieve the spill kit, put on personal protective equipment (PPE), protect floor drains as required, and clean up the spill. This is the appropriate response for a chemical spill that is less than 1 liter and non-reactive. It is important to inform the relevant individuals, take necessary safety precautions by wearing PPE, and use a spill kit to clean up the spill while also protecting the floor drains.

Chemical spills less than 1 litre can be cleaned up without activating the EHS Emergency Spill Hotline because they are considered small spills that can be handled safely and effectively by trained personnel using appropriate spill cleanup procedures and equipment. These spills are typically manageable and do not pose a significant risk to human health or the environment. However, it is still important to follow proper protocols and guidelines for cleaning up any chemical spill, regardless of its size.

If a chemical or biological substance comes into contact with skin, eye(s), nostril(s) or mouth, it is important to take immediate action to minimize the potential harm. The first step is to remove contaminated clothing to prevent further exposure. Then, using an emergency shower or eyewash station to flush the exposed area for at least 15 minutes helps to dilute and remove the substance from the skin or eyes. Completing an EHS Incident Report Form is necessary to document the incident and ensure proper follow-up procedures are implemented. Finally, notifying the manager is important to inform them of the situation and seek any additional assistance or guidance. Therefore, all of the above actions should be taken in such situations.

If a chemical spill goes down the drain, it is important to contact the EHS Emergency Spill Hotline at 1-855-779-7733 for instructions. This is the correct answer because chemical spills can be hazardous and may require specific protocols for cleanup and disposal. The hotline will provide guidance on how to safely handle the situation and prevent any further harm or damage. It is crucial to follow these instructions to ensure the safety of individuals and the environment.

Virkon or Presept should be used to disinfect all applicable surfaces after a biological spill has been cleaned up. These disinfectants are known for their effectiveness against a wide range of pathogens and are commonly used in healthcare settings. Ajax and Windex are not suitable for disinfecting biological spills as they are not specifically formulated for this purpose.

A biological spill less than 1 litre can be cleaned up without activating the EHS Emergency Spill Hotline because it is a small spill and does not pose a significant risk or require specialized assistance for cleanup.

RED Z or GREEN Z can be used to clean up a biological spill. These sorbents are specifically designed to absorb and contain hazardous liquids, including biological substances. They are effective in controlling and preventing the spread of the spill, minimizing the risk of contamination and exposure. ACID LOCK and ALKY are not suitable for cleaning up biological spills as they are designed for different types of hazardous materials. Therefore, the correct answer is RED Z or GREEN Z.