Spill Response

In the event of a spill, there are several things you can do to minimize the impact and to ensure it gets reported to the proper parties:

1. Safety is priority number one in all spill scenarios. Stay calm, and make sure that you and those around you are safe.
2. Call Airport Communications immediately at 911. Be as accurate as possible when describing the material spilled, the spill size and exact location, and whether or not any storm drains have been affected.
3. Stay as close to the spill as safely possible in order to monitor conditions and to warn anyone who may attempt to enter the area. Safety Data Sheets (SDS’s) can be helpful in determining a safe distance, as they will usually specify any hazards or health risks such as breathing issues, corrosiveness, flammability, etc.
4. If it is safe to do so, protect any nearby storm drains that are in danger of being contaminated. This can be accomplished by creating a barrier around them using booms, straw wattles, absorbent, etc., or by placing a cover directly over the catch basin. Whatever materials or equipment you use, they should always be stored onsite in a clearly marked spill kit.
5. Wait for the First Responder to arrive. In most cases, this will be the San Francisco Fire Department.