Spill kits are an essential part of workplace safety and environmental responsibility. Whether you operate in manufacturing, logistics, construction, or chemical handling, using the right spill kit ensures rapid response to accidental spills, reducing risk and ensuring compliance with UK regulations.
A common question businesses ask is: “What size spill kit do I need?” The answer depends on your workplace’s spill risks, the types of liquids stored, and industry-specific compliance guidelines. In this guide, we’ll help you determine the correct spill kit size based on regulatory best practises and your operational needs.
What Are Spill Kits and Why Do You Need One?
A spill kit is a pre-packaged emergency response system that includes absorbents, containment tools, and personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to manage spills efficiently.
Having the right spill kit in place helps:
- Protect employees and the environment
- Prevent hazardous leaks from spreading
- Ensure compliance with UK health, safety, and pollution prevention laws
Types of Spill Kits
- General Maintenance Spill Kits (Grey): For water-based liquids, coolants, oils, and mild solvents.
- Chemical Spill Kits (Yellow): Designed for corrosive chemicals, acids, and hazardous substances.
- Oil Spill Kits (White & Blue): Water-repellent absorbents ideal for hydrocarbon spills.
Using the correct spill kit reduces cleanup time, improves workplace safety, and ensures compliance with industry regulations.
How to Determine the Right Spill Kit Size
When selecting a spill kit, the key question is: What size spill kit do I need to handle the largest potential spill in my facility?
Several factors influence the appropriate kit size:
- Largest Possible Spill Volume: The spill kit capacity should be equal to or greater than the volume of your largest stored container.
- Type of Liquids Stored: Different absorbents are required for oils, chemicals, or water-based liquids.
- Workplace Layout & Storage Space: Large kits may be impractical in compact spaces.
- Legal Requirements & Industry Compliance: UK regulations require sufficient spill response measures for hazardous materials.
Spill Kit Size Guide: Matching Kit Capacity to Your Needs
To simplify your decision, here’s a quick reference on common spill kit sizes and their best use cases:
| Spill Kit Size | Best Use Case |
| 10-50L | Small workstations, vehicle spill response |
| 50-120L | Offices, small workshops, machine areas |
| 120-400L | Warehouses, industrial sites, chemical plants |
| 400-1,100L+ | Bulk storage areas, refineries, large-scale facilities |
Important: Spill kit size requirements vary by industry and risk level. You should conduct a spill risk assessment to ensure compliance with HSE, COMAH, and environmental protection regulations.
Industry-Specific Spill Kit Recommendations
Different industries may require different spill kits. Here’s our guide on how to match your spill kit to your business sector:
- Manufacturing & Warehousing → 120L+ spill kits for large machinery spills.
- Automotive & Engineering → Oil spill kits (50-200L) for fuel and hydraulic fluid leaks.
- Chemical & Pharmaceutical → Chemical spill kits (120-400L) for hazardous material containment.
- Construction & Heavy Machinery → General-purpose spill kits (200-600L) for hydraulic oils, fuels, and cement-based liquids.
Selecting a spill kit designed for your industry ensures the most effective spill response and regulatory compliance.
How Many Spill Kits Do I Need?
A spill kit’s size is only part of the equation—you also need enough kits to cover potential spill areas.
Factors to consider:
- Multiple Risk Zones: If your facility has multiple spill-prone areas, place kits strategically near workstations, storage areas, and loading docks.
- Regulatory Compliance: UK regulations recommend easy access to containment solutions within hazardous material storage locations.
- Business Size & Volume of Liquids Stored: Large facilities handling bulk materials should have several large-capacity kits instead of relying on a single oversized kit.
Common mistake: Relying on a single large spill kit rather than multiple, strategically placed smaller kits—which could slow response times.
UK Spill Kit Compliance and Legal Requirements
In the UK, businesses handling hazardous materials must comply with spill containment laws to avoid fines, environmental damage, and regulatory violations.
Key Regulations to Consider:
- Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001 – Requires spill containment for oil storage above 200 litres.
- COMAH Regulations 2015 – Applies to sites handling large quantities of hazardous chemicals.
- Pollution Prevention and Control (PPC) Regulations – Govern spill containment for industrial activities.
- Environmental Protection Act 1990 – Mandates businesses to prevent and respond to spills effectively.
Failing to comply with these laws can result in significant penalties. Having adequate spill response plans and accessible spill kits helps businesses meet legal obligations and safety requirements.
Common Mistakes When Choosing a Spill Kit (And How to Avoid Them)
- Choosing a kit that’s too small → Always prepare for your largest possible spill scenario.
- Choosing the wrong absorbents → Check whether your spill kit is oil-only, chemical, or general.
- Not having secondary spill containment → Drain covers, bunded storage, and spill pallets improve compliance.
- Ignoring employee training → Make sure staff know how to use spill containment solutions effectively.
Sustainability: Eco-Friendly Spill Kits and Refillable Options
Many businesses are now prioritising sustainable spill control solutions, including:
- Biodegradable absorbents – Sustainable materials that break down naturally.
- Refillable spill kits – Lower costs and reduce packaging waste.
- Reusable storage containers – Instead of disposable kits, use durable containers that last longer.
Note: Even biodegradable absorbents may need hazardous waste disposal under UK regulations—always check compliance before disposal.
Final Checklist: Choosing the Right Spill Kit
- Identify your largest possible spill.
- Choose the correct type (Oil, Chemical, or General).
- Ensure compliance with UK spill control regulations.
- Consider storage space & accessibility.
- Opt for refillable & eco-friendly options where possible.
Need a spill kit? Browse our full range of spill kits here with fast UK delivery!
Protect Your Business—Act Now
Selecting the right spill kit size isn’t just about compliance—it’s about keeping your workplace safe and prepared. By following this guide, you can confidently choose the right spill kit for your needs and ensure quick, effective spill response.
Got questions? Contact Recontainers Direct today for expert advice!