The appropriate absorbent will vary with the different chemicals. Spills of acids and bases can be easily absorbed into polypropylene pads. If Polypropylene pads are not available, a safe way to absorb most any liquid is by using a clay absorbent similar to kitty litter. The clay is a safe, cheap and efficient absorbent for chemical spills. Once all of the free liquids are absorbed, place all of the absorbents and other contaminated spill clean-up materials into a heavy duty trash bag or plastic container.
Many spills involve broken glass.
The responder must be careful not to get cut by broken glass during the clean-up process. Use tongs to pick-up the broken glass. Once the spill is cleaned up it is necessary to neutralize any remaining residues and decontaminate the area. This can be accomplished by using an acid or base neutralizer for corrosive chemicals or using warm, soapy water for other chemicals. Water should never be used for chemicals that are water reactive.