How to Choose the Right Spill Kit for Your Workplace

Choosing the right spill kit is essential for ensuring workplace safety and compliance with environmental regulations. Different work environments pose different spill risks, and selecting the correct spill kit depends on several factors—primarily the type of liquids handled, spill volume, and workplace setting.

1. Assess Your Spill Risks

Start with a thorough risk assessment to identify potential spill types and volumes. Some workplaces may require multiple types of spill kits to address different hazardous materials. Consider the likelihood and impact of spills, especially if various chemicals, oils, or fuels are stored or used onsite.

2. Consider Spill Kit Size and Absorption Capacity

Spill kits come in various sizes—from compact 25L kits to large 240L wheelie bins—but remember, kit size doesn’t equal absorption capacity. The goal is to choose a spill kit that can absorb the largest probable spill, not the total quantity stored.

  • Viscosity Matters: Low-viscosity liquids like diesel require more absorbent materials than thicker substances. Always factor in absorbency rates, and consider reducing the stated capacity by half for thin, fast-spreading liquids.

3. Select the Right Absorbent Material

Spill kits are typically color-coded based on the type of liquid they’re designed to handle. Selecting the correct absorbent material ensures quick, safe containment and minimizes risk.

  • General Purpose Spill Kits (Yellow)
    Suitable for most spills, including oils, coolants, and non-aggressive chemicals. Ideal for indoor use but not recommended for corrosive substances.
  • Oil & Fuel Spill Kits (Red)
    Designed to absorb hydrocarbons like oils and fuels without absorbing water. Best for outdoor use near water bodies or soil. For spills on soil, look for kits with bioactive absorbents.
  • Hazchem Spill Kits (Blue)
    Suitable for hazardous chemicals, including acids, alkalis, paints, and unknown substances. Contain inert absorbents that won’t react with aggressive chemicals. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use in high-risk environments.

Need Help Choosing a Spill Kit?

Selecting the correct spill kit for your business can be complex, but we’re here to help.

Explore our full range of spill kits, including Oil and Fuel, General Purpose, Hazchem, and Marine kits, at:
Spill Kits – Oil and Fuel, General Purpose, Hazchem and Marine (spillmaster.com.au) Our solutions align with best practices outlined in the Safe Work Australia Guide.