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UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences The University of Georgia Tifton Campus
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Hazardous Materials Policy

Spill Clean-up/Containment:

The following supplies should be readily available to the areas where spills of hazardous materials may occur:

  • Soap, water, eyewash and single-use towels for personal cleanup.
  • Material readily available for spill containment, such as sand, soil, dike hoses, etc.
  • Sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and hydrated lime.
  • Absorptive materials, such as kitty litter, sawdust, vermiculite, etc.
  • Bucket, broom, shovel, sprinkling can and containers for disposal of wastes.
  • Personal protective equipment necessary to handle the most toxic pesticide in inventory.

Emergency Procedures to Follow in Case a Hazardous Emergency Occurs:

  • Assure public and personal safety. Clear all unauthorized personnel from the area.
  • Put on appropriate protective equipment.
  • Stop the source of the spill.
  • Contain the spill with a physical barrier. Protect wells and waterways.
  • If the pesticide is a solid formulation, scoop up as much as possible. It may be used if not overly contaminated.
  • Sprinkle spill with 1:10 mixture of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and water followed by a liberal application of hydrated lime. Let stand for one hour.
  • Spread absorptive material over any liquid spills. Collect absorptive material and dispose of as a hazardous material.
  • Dispose of any heavily contaminated materials (e.g. clothing, absorptive materials) and dispose of as hazardous wastes.
  • Inform the Unit Administrator of the spill as soon as possible, especially if the spill is on soil or threatens a water supply.

Emergency Phone Numbers:

Post the following phone numbers near all appropriate telephones:

Local Agency: If Emergency, call 911
Poison Control Center: 1-800-282-5846
CHEMTREC: 1-800-424-9300
Pesticide Epidemiologic Studies Center: 1-800-845-7633
Georgia Environmental Protection Division: 1-800-241-4113
UGA Environmental Safety Division: (706) 542-5801

Emergency Response:

Inform appropriate responding units. Keep information files on current pesticide inventory and provide to local emergency units. Establish a chain of command in event of emergency.

Resource Information:

CAES Policies and Recommended Handling Procedures for Pesticides and Fertilizers

Hazardous Materials Program from UGA Environmental Safety Division

UGA Chemical and Laboratory Safety Manual