Final answer:
Recoverable spills of controlled substances must be reported to the DEA and are those that can be collected or salvaged. Non-recoverable spills, such as those down a drain, generally do not require reporting since the products are considered permanently lost. Proper documentation of any spill is critical.
Step-by-step explanation:
When dealing with controlled substances, the distinction between recoverable and non-recoverable spills is significant with respect to regulatory requirements. Recoverable spills of controlled substances are those in which the spilled material can still be retrieved or salvaged.
In such instances, there may be a requirement to notify the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) because the substances could potentially be put back into circulation and there's a mandated accountability for all controlled substances. Now, non-recoverable spills, like those spilled down a sink or absorbed into materials that cannot be retrieved, typically do not require DEA notification because these substances are considered irretrievably lost. However, any spill should be well-documented in accordance with an entity's established protocols. It is crucial to consult with DEA regulations and guidelines as these situations may be subject to change based on specific circumstances and regulatory updates.