Whether it is oil or fuel, a spill can occur when you least expect it and can have detrimental consequences.
In any case, it is important to know how to clean it up to reduce the risk of further harm.
What to do in the aftermath of an oil or fuel spill
In the event of an oil or fuel spill, it is important to be able to deal with it successfully and efficiently.
First, assess the damage by considering what type and size of spill it is. This will help you determine the severity of the situation and what steps should be taken.
An assessment of any risks associated with the spill should also be carried out, including gauging if it poses any immediate danger to human health, the environment, or property.
You also should determine which surface the oil or fuel has spilled onto. For example, a spill of this type on grass will kill nearby plants and crops. Furthermore, a fuel or oil spill on soil or dirt risks contaminating it, and this will need to be treated by experts.
Alternatively, a spill of this kind on the road could be dangerous because it has the potential to be flammable, or to spread, if left untreated.
Once these factors have been taken into consideration, you should take measures to prepare for the spill’s clean-up.
Who should be informed?
When you realise that an oil or fuel spill has occurred, the first thing you should do after checking for immediate risks is to call an expert to inspect it before arranging a clean-up.
If an oil spill has entered, or has the potential to move into public drains or a water source, then the appropriate environmental body or water board needs to be alerted.
Alternatively, if the spill could potentially impact private water supplies, you will also need to alert the local council who in turn can raise the alarm with the relevant provider.
In serious cases where a major spill has occurred, then emergency services may need to be contacted, especially if there is a present danger to life, property, or the environment.
How to prepare for an oil or diesel spill to be cleaned
When dealing with a spill, it is imperative to protect people nearby and ensure that it does not spread further.
First, you should move everybody away from the area, and make sure to switch off anything that could cause a fire.
If the spillage is minor and you have a fuel spill kit, you can use absorbent pads to soak up excess fuel to stop it spreading. Be sure never to use water when trying to clean up even a minor spill because this will make the issue worse. Remember, water and oil do not mix.
If an oil spill has happened at home, make sure there is good airflow by opening the doors and windows as well as keeping everyone clear of the fluid. You will also need to turn off your oil supply at the tank and try to stop it at the source by placing a bucket underneath. You should then call an expert to dispose of it correctly and legally.
For major spills, and those that happen on soil or dirt, it is best to temporarily contain the spillage until an expert in land remediation can examine the scene with specialist tools and protective equipment before conducting a safe cleanup and disposal.
Get in touch with professionals at DHI Excavations to assist
You should not expect to clean up an oil or fuel spill alone. Instead, know that you can call on the expertise of a specialist to clear up and dispose of spills to make the diesel fuel spill cleanup procedure easier than ever.
DHI Excavations’ team of trained experts in land clean-up and remediation is on hand to tackle fuel and oil spills, hazardous materials, and more.
So, why not contact us today to find out how we can help?
