Preventing Spills
When materials and wastes are not stored properly, pollutants can leak from stockpiles and containers and run into the ground and into waterways. Reducing the amount of materials and wastes kept in storage is a sure way to cut the dangers of pollution. But some storage will always be necessary in a developed and active area such as the University of Michigan. Here is some advice on preventing spillage from stored wastes and on cleaning up spills when they happen.

Choosing Safe Storage Containers
Selecting a proper storage container is the first step in preventing spills and leaks. Keep products in their original containers, or clearly label containers and cover the labels with transparent tape to keep them from falling off or weathering. Be sure the containers are in good condition and lined with a material that won't deteriorate. If storing potential pollutants indoors increases risks to health and safety, be sure outdoor storage containers are water-tight, rodent-proof and protected from tampering. When outdoor storage is a must, construct a covered area with an impermeable basin designed to contain leaks and spills. If it's impossible to cover and pave outdoor storage areas, place each primary container within a larger, leak-proof, secondary container.

Designing storage areas
A few design features dramatically reduce the chance that a spill or leak will get out of control. The key idea is secondary containment -- some method that will contain a leak or spill should its original container fail. Secondary containers should be able to hold at least as much as the original volume. For hazardous materials, the law requires that the secondary container be 10 percent larger than the original, and 150 percent is required for materials that are petroleum-based or listed on the Michigan Critical Materials Register. Converting an existing room or area into a secondary containment area allows the storage of many materials and minimizes the need for duplicate emergency clean-up materials. Construct curbs or berms at the perimeter of the designated area to contain spills. Prevent leaking by sealing all the cracks in the floor and corners and by covering the floor with a chemical resistant floor sealer.

Prevent liquids from squirting out of punctured containers and out of the containment areas either by constructing low walls or by placing the containers away from the edges. If a room is being used, position the door sills high enough to keep any spilled or leaking materials confined to the room.

Sometimes it is inconvenient for barrels, drums or frequently used materials to be stored in these areas. In this case, place an appropriately sized containment platform under the barrel or drum so they may be located in a more convenient area. When small quantities are in use, use buckets or pans as secondary containers. (Continue this practice at home by placing pesticides, household cleaners, automotive fluids, etc. in buckets or other types of containers). Never allow storage areas to drain to any part of the storm water management system. If possible, connect drains to a dead-end holding tank, especially when storing hazardous or petroleum based products. If a spill occurs, the tank's contents will need to be pumped-out and disposed by a licensed waste hauler.

Prevent a spill from happening
Taking a few simple precautions to prevent a spill will eliminate the headaches that come with cleaning up after one!