Maintenance, Repair & Operations

Staying Safe from Spills, Part 3

Jan. 15, 2019

It isn’t always best to report a spill as your first action.

Spills happen, even when people are careful. A key aspect of safe and effective spill response is reporting the spill. Even a small one. Report any spill promptly, not as an afterthought just before going home.

Yet, it isn’t always best to report the spill as your first action. For example, consider a machine spill caused by a sudden gasket blowout. Can you quickly shut down the machine to prevent further damage? Or somebody knocks over the can of waste oil temporarily left by maintenance mechanics. Can you quickly toss some pigs between it and the floor drain?

Notice the word “quickly.” You don’t want to delay reporting so you can clean or contain. And you may not have the equipment or training to do that correctly. Also, assess the danger. If you cannot readily verify the absence of personal danger, forget quick efforts and just get out of there. Warn others in the area, then report the spill.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.