ENVIRONMENTAL SPILL RESPONSE

Any incidental release of a known water pollutant, such as a chemical or petroleum product to the ground, open waterway, sanitary sewer, storm drain or air, requires swift action on the part of those involved or anyone who notices the release. Promptly reporting and initiating a clean-up will mitigate further damage and prevent potential fines or penalties. EH&S will review the initial response and advise what additional actions are necessary by the campus departments involved. This includes contacting the necessary authorities, dispatching clean-up crews and fulfilling any reporting requirements to state agencies.

• Large spills - greater than five gallons and/or other emergencies

  1. Clear the area and contact University Police by calling (631) 632-3333 from a mobile device or 333 from any campus phone
  2. If possible, without putting yourself or others at risk, contain the spill using the appropriate spill control equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE):
    - Spill control materials such as absorbent pads, brooms, socks, powder or other materials to prevent spilled material from entering floor drains, storm drains or the ground in unpaved areas
     - Use safety goggles and appropriate gloves while containing the spill
  3. Provide assistance such as information and materials to University Police and Environmental Health & Safety as needed
  

• Minor spills - less than five gallons and cleanable by staff
  • The spill is considered to have not impacted land if it occurs on a paved surface (concrete or asphalt) or a contained area
  • A spill in dirt or gravel parking lot is considered to have impacted land and must be reported to University Police by calling (631) 632-3333 from a mobile device or 333 from a campus phone
  • Second, spill debris must be collected and disposed by Environmental Health & Safety's hazardous waste program (email hazwaste@stonybrook.edu)

  Oil waste is not municipal waste and must not be disposed of in the garbage. For more information about hazardous waste and the procedures that need to be taken, please visit the Hazardous Waste page. Last, report the spill to Environmental Health & Safety.

• Laboratory emergencies - biological spills (BSL 1 and BSL 2) and chemical spills

  To learn more about how to prepare and respond to laboratory emergencies, please visit the following links:

  • Biological spills (BSL 1 & BSL 2)
  • Chemical spills
  • Laboratory emergency plan