General Purpose/Chemical Spill Kits

Short answer: no. Hydrocarbon spills behave differently from water-based chemicals, so absorbents made for oil and fuel are hydrophobic. That means they repel water and cling to hydrocarbons. The grey universal absorbents in this general-purpose kit do the opposite: they soak up a wide range of water-based liquids but become far less effective on straight oil. 

For any workshop, depot or service station that handles diesel, petrol or lubricants, grab our dedicated Fuel & Oil Spill Kit instead. Using the correct kit keeps cleanup fast, protects drains and helps you sail through compliance audits.

Place your chemical spill kit where the spill is most likely to happen, yet where foot traffic and forklifts won’t knock it about. Good spots include doorway corners of chemical stores, ends of production lines or the edge of a wash-bay. Keep the front of the bin clear and mark the floor or wall with a “Spill Kit—Do Not Block” sign. The golden rule: if a new hire can find it unaided at 3 a.m., you’ve nailed the location.

Yes. Every component in the bin is fine for outdoor use. Just remember that UV and rain will eventually degrade even the best absorbents. If your kit is outside, park it under a canopy or cover the lid with a simple tarp. A dry kit stays fluffy and absorbent; a wet kit turns into a heavy brick that benefits no one.

Do a quick contents check once a month. Lift the lid, count the pads, and ensure the gloves, goggles and disposal bags are all present and undamaged. Log the check on the inspection tag supplied on the handle. If anything’s missing, or if you’ve cracked the bin open to mop up a spill, order refills straight away so you’re never caught short.

Absolutely. The bin, absorbents and PPE are assembled to meet the relevant sections of AS 1940 and AS/NZS 1715 for chemical handling and respiratory protection. Using standards-compliant gear doesn’t just keep SafeWork inspectors happy; it also shows your team you take their safety seriously.