Releases, spills, and overflows……nobody ever wants to hear those words. However, despite the best precautions, accidents happen or systems fail, and you need to be prepared. From the initial spill response, to the critical first 24 hours of Site activities, there is a lot to do and a lot to process. Are you prepared?
Emergency response, spill response, and rapid response teams are critical pieces to be included in preparation for a potential future spill or disaster that a number of industries may encounter. For oil and gas facilities, metal manufacturing facilities, and even food manufacturers, the potential for a spill or disaster could occur at any moment. There are a number of regulatory agencies that govern spills or discharges in Texas. However, what they all have in common is that spills need to be reported, assessed, and remediated as soon as possible to reduce potential long-term issues or liabilities. When it comes to spill preparation, do you know who to call, are your contractors set up with proper training and equipment, and do you have a plan in place?
Important steps in spill response is knowing where and how the spill occurred, the material and quantity was spilled, how to report, and what personnel and equipment is required to bring the spill under control. Building the story, investigating and identifying the extent of impacts, and identifying remedial options all take time, but the more prepared you are the more efficient you and your response contractors and consultants will be. Always prepare for the worst but hope for the best.
Eliminating the risk for spills, releases, discharges or overflows all start with process knowledge and preparedness. If we understand our facilities and operations, identify proper personnel for spill and rapid response teams, and develop and implement spill preparedness plans, we can reduce the risk for potential and unexpected spills and disasters.