Q. What is a Hydrocarbon.
A. A chemical, usually in a liquid form, that floats on water.


Q. Why do I need to have spill response equipment.
A. In many cases this assists in fulfilling your Duty of Care to the environment and also to your staff.


Q. Is there a need to have spill equipment regularly serviced.
A. In this way you will ensure your spill equipment is stocked ready if an event happens. Also, you will have a record of the spill kit condition.


Q. When handling a spill do I need to use Personal Protection Equipment (PPE).
A. In most cases. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for that product will advise on the PPE required.


Q. Are there absorbents for fuel and oil only.
A. Yes. There are both loose absorbent and pads which are oil and fuel (hydrocarbon) specific


Q. Are there absorbents that are bio-degradable.
A. Yes. There are both loose absorbent and pads which are bio-degradable.


Q. Are there booms that are oil and fuel specific.
A. Yes. Booms can be oil and fuel (hydrocarbon) specific, as well as being a land boom, or a floating boom for deployment on water.


Q. Why do we have specific hazchem absorbents.
A. Because some chemicals may have a reaction to organic absorbents, and oil & fuel specific absorbents will not absorb most chemicals.


Q. How do I dispose of used absorbents.
A. Organic absorbents, in some cases, may be disposed of in landfill. Absorbents that contain Hazchem material are a regulated waste. Check with the regulations or your local Council.