Toolbox talk · Environment and welfare · about 5 minutes
Spills and environmental protection
Download the PDF with attendance sheet
Why it matters
Fuel, oil and chemical spills can pollute drains, rivers and ground. Clean-up is costly and pollution is an offence.
The hazards
- Refuelling spills
- Leaking plant and containers
- Washing out into drains
- Waste stored badly
Stay safe
- Store fuels and chemicals in bunded areas
- Use drip trays under plant and containers
- Know where the spill kits are and how to use them
- Stop the source of a spill if safe, contain it and report it
- Never wash concrete, paint or chemicals into drains
- Put waste in the right skip
Ask the team
- Where are the spill kits?
- Which drains on site lead to watercourses?
- What do you do if you see a spill?
The law and guidance
Environmental Protection Act 1990; Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002.
General guidance to help you give a toolbox talk. It doesn't replace your site's risk assessments, method statements, permits or training. Check it against your own site rules before you give it.