Chemical Spill with Injury or Contamination

In any medical emergency situation, call 911 immediately.

For work-related injuries, follow the Injury/Medical Assistance guidance and refer to the Human Resources Workers’ Compensation page:

• In the event that hazardous materials (chemical, radioactive, or biological) are splashed in the eye,
  • Immediately flush the affected eye(s) with gently flowing potable water for at least 15 minutes.
  • Have the injured worker move eye(s) side-to-side and up-and-down during rinsing.
  • Report the incident to the relevant supervisor and seek medical attention (Student Health Care Clinic or Shands Emergency Room).
• If chemicals are spilled on other parts of the body,
  • Do not attempt to wipe chemicals off.
  • Immediately go to a safety shower or other water source, initiate water flow, and remove contaminated clothes, shoes, jewelry, etc. while rinsing.
  • Flood exposed areas with running water for a minimum of 15 minutes.
  • Place contaminated clothing in a plastic bag for decontamination.
  • Report the incident to the relevant supervisor and seek medical attention as required or if there is any evidence of a chemical burn (reddening of skin, pain or discomfort, burning or tingling sensations, etc.).
• For any chemical exposure to personnel,
  • Review MSDS or call the Poison Control Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222 to determine if any delayed or systemic effects should be expected.
• Contact the EH&S Lab Safety group at 392-1591 any time an individual is injured or exposed to a hazardous chemical in a UF laboratory.