SOP - UNIVERSAL WASTE-SPILL RESPONSE
Spills and Releases that do not need to be Reported

SOP FORMAT

CAUTION!

1.    Spills and releases of universal waste can be hazardous to your health.

2.    If you do not feel confident with your ability to safely clean up a discharge of universal waste,
       contact your supervisor for assistance.

3.    The Following Procedures can be used to Clean Up Universal Waste
       A.    Always wear safety glasses and disposable rubber gloves when cleaning universal waste
               spills. All items (i.e., brooms, shovels, scoops, tape, gloves, sponges, rags, etc.) used to
               clean up universal waste spills should be considered contaminated and must be
               decontaminated or treated as waste.
        B.    Thoroughly wash your hands and face after cleaning up any universal waste spills.

4.    For Spills or Releases that do not require Reporting (10 or less lamps)
       A.    Place the broken or leading universal waste item(s) in an appropriate container, i.e.,
               sealable plastic bag or sealable plastic or metal container.
        B.    Scoop or wipe up as much of the discharged material as possible and place the rags
                and any other clean up equipment in the container.
        C.    Wipe the spill area thoroughly with a wet sponge. For mercury spills, it is
                recommended that you go over the area with masking tape to pick up small particles of
                mercury. Place sponge, tape, and/or rags in an appropriate container.
        D.    Seal the container(s), and store as universal waste.
        E.    If the spill occurred on a carpet or other permeable surface, it may be necessary to
                remove the flooring to prevent continued exposure to universal waste. This debris
                should be considered contaminated and treated as hazardous waste.

5.    Major Spills (11 or more lamps)
       A.    A professional contractor is to be called to handle the clean up. Supervisors are to
               notify the USM Occupational Safety & Health Office, and report the incident.

6.    Documentation
       A.    All spills must be reported to immediate supervisors.