Spill kits are a great help when it comes to all kinds of spills. Mainly used in industrial settings they are becoming more popular to carry around in vehicles as well, to deal with anything from oil and fuel to AdBlue.
So, to help you choose the best spill kit to keep in your vehicle we have compiled a guide to the different types and their purposes.
What are spill kits?
Spill kits contain everything you need to deal with hazardous and non-hazardous spills in a safe way. They include a container holding absorbent materials, which will often be pads or long socks (also known as rolls) that can be put around the spill to create a barrier so it does not spread to a bigger area.
Depending on the type and size of the spill kit you choose, they may also include squeegees, gloves and plastic trays.
Types of spill kits
Oil spill kits
Oil spill kits will include: white absorbent pads and socks stored in a bag, plastic drum or wheelie bin, depending on the kit’s size. The pads and socks are designed to handle different types of oil like hydraulic, engine or lubricating oil, as well as fuels and other hydrocarbons.
The oil spill kit pads and socks absorb spilled oil but repel water, so they don’t become saturated with harmless substances before they can deal with the spill. This makes them perfect to use to clean oil from water tanks, pools and even streams. It is easy to know when they have reached their limit as they will change colour when absorbing the oil.
AdBlue spill kit
The AdBlue spill kit usually comes with a blue top bin that has a clip-close system for easy storage. Inside, you will find GP socks and GP double weight pads, disposable bags and ties.
AdBlue is a harmful substance that can do a lot of damage to the environment which is why an AdBlue spill kit is essential if you use AdBlue.
Chemical spill kit
Chemical spill kits are designed to soak up acids and alkalis and are ideal for COSHH-compliant workplaces.
EVO universal spill kit
A universal spill kit includes grey pads and socks, contained in a zip bag or a clip-close bin. Because of its ability to absorb and retain high volumes of liquid it can help prevent secondary contaminations after a spill. It is also ideal for use on many non-hazardous substances as it can absorb water, coolants, drinks, paint and other liquids. When oil spills are not contaminated with water then the universal spill kit can be used to soak up the oil.
Spill kit sizes
You can find a range of sizes on the market to meet your needs. EVO universal spill kits can range from 20 to 240 litres. AdBlue ones can be from 25 litres to 240 litres, to name a couple of examples.
