Final answer:
In the event of a formaldehyde spill, the first action step should be to evacuate the area to ensure safety, followed by donning appropriate PPE before attempting to control the spill and notifying emergency assistance, adhering to lab safety protocols.
Step-by-step explanation:
When dealing with a significant chemical spill such as 10 gallons of formaldehyde, it is critical to approach the situation with a clear understanding of the correct procedures to mitigate health risks. The priority in this incident is to first evacuate the area to ensure the safety of all personnel. Formaldehyde is a toxic substance used to preserve tissue specimens and manufacture various products such as hard plastics, but it is also flammable and a volatile organic compound (VOC). Direct exposure through inhalation or skin contact can be harmful; therefore, after securing the area, one should don appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Once protected, controlling the spill with an appropriate absorbent material and notifying emergency assistance are subsequent steps. Importantly, always following the instructions of a teacher or supervisor in a laboratory setting is crucial for dealing with such hazardous materials and situations.