Final answer:
To address an oil spill, one should alert others, use absorbents to soak up oil, contain the spill, clean the area, dispose of waste appropriately, and report the incident if required. This procedure is important for safety and mirrors the lessons of large spills like the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an employee spills oil on the floor, such as spilling six quarts of oil, immediate action is required to address the spill effectively and safely. The steps involved in such a situation generally include:
- Alerting nearby individuals to avoid slipping and to help control the area.
- Using appropriate materials like absorbent pads or sand to soak up the oil.
- Containing the spread of the oil to prevent further contamination.
- Cleaning the affected area properly with suitable detergents or cleaners.
- Disposing of the used absorbent materials and oil in accordance with local regulations.
- Reporting the spill if necessary, depending on the workplace policies and the size of the spill.
This procedure is critical to safety and environmental health. It is reminiscent of the lessons learned from major incidents like the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, where the chemistry of oil in everyday life and its interaction with environments, such as hydrocarbons being immiscible with water, became evident on a large scale.
Additionally, understanding the slickness created by oil, even small amounts on a road surface, can explain why vehicles can lose control after a light rain shower, as oil rises to the surface and creates slippery conditions. A heavy rain, however, may wash away the oil, improving traction and control of the vehicle.