Hazardous Material Spill

What to do if a spill occurs inside:

• Immediately evacuate the building. If you cannot evacuate, request help.
• Close all doors, open windows, and turn off heat.
• If there is risk of an explosion, stay away from the windows to prevent injury from flying glass.
• If you suspect that gas or vapors are in the air, take shallow breaths through a cloth or towel.

What to do if a spill occurs outside:

• Move uphill and upwind; hazardous materials can be transported quickly through air and water.
• Go to a protected, interior area of a building where toxic vapors are reduced, and close windows and doors.
• Notify the Office of Safety and Security at 206-281-2911 from a safe location as soon as it is practical.

What NOT to do:

• Do not attempt to clean up a spill.
• Do not touch or step in spilled materials.

What to do after being exposed to:

Corrosives. These are substances that cause visible destruction or permanent changes of the skin tissue upon contact.

• Wash your eyes for 15 to 20 minutes if they are affected. Eyelids must be open; do not rub the injured area.
• Get under a shower; remove all clothing; wash with soap and water.

Flammables. These are liquids with a flash point below 100 degrees F with gases that burn readily.

• Turn off the main electricity and natural gas.
• Evacuate the building.

Toxics. These are poisonous substances.

• Wash your hands.
• Discard contaminated clothing or objects.
• Use the appropriate antidotes.

Reactives. These are substances that can undergo a chemical or other change that may result in an explosion, burning, and corrosive or toxic conditions.

• Close all doors.
• Evacuate the danger area.
• Follow decontamination instructions from fire or health authorities.