Need to use Sorbents? - the BSIF's Selection Guidance could help
June 1st 2008 To help identify the most appropriate sorbent for use with any hazardous liquids it can be of little use consulting the COSHH Material Data-Sheets since the requirements on the material manufacturers who provide these are somewhat loose. The BSIF believes that any duty holder would be well advised to seriously question this often inadequate and incomplete information when carrying out a risk assessment in respect of emergency spills.
If it is correct nothing is lost but if more information comes to light, employee injury could well be avoided.
First responders to liquid spills need to be trained in much the same way as firstaiders as they will invariably be dealing with a situation which has occurred as an emergency, with little or no warning. In addition to specialist training organisations, several suppliers of sorbents run bespoke courses for first responders and the BSIF manages an independent Quality Scheme to verify the consistency of this training.
Simply look for the BSIF Quality Mark when deciding which is the best company to deliver your First Responder training.
The BSIF Sorbent Manufacturers' Group was formed to bring a market integrity to the supply of products designed to mopup liquid spills. Now, some ten years on, this group has developed the British Standard Test Methods to determine performances [BS 7959-parts 1 & 2], initiated a British Standard to improve the consistency of product marking [to assist selection of the most appropriate sorbents - BS 7959-part 3] and , in conjunction with the Environment Agency, published its guidance on the selection of appropriate sorbents for use with different, hazardous liquids.
The BSIF will be pleased to provide readers with details of their Sorbent Selection for Use guidance on request and advise any enquirer of companies providing BSIF Quality Marked Training for First Responders to Liquid Spills. More articles from British Safety Industry Federation: | 
