Various teaching, research and service activities at MSU require the use of chemicals or hazardous materials that are potentially harmful when spilled.

Immediate Emergency Actions:

If the spill poses an immediate hazard to life or health, or is an immediate fire hazard:

  • Evacuate the immediate area and close the door behind you.
  • Pull the nearest fire alarm to evacuate the building.
  • Call 911 and inform the dispatcher what type of chemical was spilled, the amount spilled and the exact location of the spill or fire (building, room number, etc.). Be sure to give the dispatcher your name and location. Do not hang up until the dispatcher releases you; MSU Police will contact MSU Chemical Safety personnel to respond.
  • After evacuating the building, occupants should gather, wait at a safe distance and follow the instructions given by emergency responders.

If the spill is small and does not pose a life safety or fire hazard:

  • Contain the spilled chemical or hazardous material to prevent it from spreading or spilling further. Do not let chemical or hazardous material enter drains or run along pipes and walls, as it may spread to other rooms.
  • Use appropriate personal protective equipment when working with or near chemicals or hazardous materials. Evacuate all personnel from the immediate area of the spill and warn occupants in adjacent rooms. 
  • Call 911 and tell the dispatcher what type of chemical(s) or hazardous material(s) was spilled, the amount spilled, and the exact location (building, room number, etc.) of the spill. Be sure to give the dispatcher your name and location. Do not hang up until the dispatcher releases you; MSU Police will contact MSU Chemical Safety personnel to respond.
  • If injury occurs, give appropriate first aid. Alert the 911 dispatcher and emergency responders of injuries.
  • If you have a copy of the appropriate Material Data Safety Sheet for the chemical or hazardous material involved, have it available for emergency responders.
  • If qualified, initiate cleanup; otherwise, wait until Hazardous Material Management personnel arrive.

If the spill is outside a building:

  • Take preventative measures to control the spread of the chemical.
  • Take precautions to alert all others in the vicinity. Prevent anyone from coming into contact with the chemical or hazardous material.
  • Call 911 and inform first responders of the situation. 

Resources on Chemical Spills

Environmental Protection Agency: Response Techniques