Not many liquid spills are more severe than gasoline. Gasoline is not only toxic and highly flammable, it also creates slippery pools and a stubborn odor that if not treated promptly will last for a long time. In dealing with gasoline spills, you must act quickly and make sure to use the right materials to prevent further accidents and unnecessary damage. Pure gasoline should not be wiped or vacuumed with a vacuum cleaner as it is unsafe; You must handle gasoline spills with a dry agent. Gasoline can then be disposed of according to local regulations.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Collecting Gasoline Spills
Step 1. Stop the spill at the source
First, you must prevent the spill from getting worse before worrying about how to clean the gasoline. If you accidentally bump into the gas tank, straighten it back up and close the lid. If the spill is from the pump, make sure it is tightly closed and the nozzles replaced.
- Even a small spill of gasoline can quickly become dangerous. Try to react as soon as possible.
- Always be aware of the smell of gasoline fumes. This characteristic odor always indicates a gasoline spill, even if you don't notice it.
- Make sure the gas station staff is aware of any spills and leaks that have occurred at the gas station.
Step 2. Catch the leaking gasoline
If the gasoline spill is caused by a leak, the problem may not be resolved immediately. In this case, look for a large container that can be placed under a drip of gasoline. Thus, gasoline does not touch other surfaces and is easier to clean.
- Make sure the container is not leaking or overflowing.
- If you're at home, use a bucket, paint tray, or basin.
Step 3. Put some kind of dam
Place objects that can stop or slow the spread of the spill so it doesn't spread. You can use old towels, logs, or heavy boxes (make sure these items can be thrown away later). Position the object so that it blocks the spill.
- Do your best to prevent spills from reaching electronic equipment or objects that generate heat, such as stoves, heaters and electrical outlets.
- Use plastic sheeting to cover and protect perishable items.
Step 4. Improve the airflow of the room
Gasoline gives off a strong vapor which is harmful if inhaled. Open all doors and windows to allow airflow in the room. If the spill occurs in a room without windows, turn on the fan or air conditioner.
- Exposure to gasoline fumes may cause dizziness, dizziness, shortness of breath or disorientation of breath.
- Gas vapors are also highly flammable. Avoid anything that can cause gasoline vapor to burn.
Part 2 of 3: Absorb Gasoline
Step 1. Cover the spill with absorbent material
Ideally, choose an ingredient such as cat litter or trisodium phosphate (usually packaged as a "T. S. P." cleaning powder) as they neutralize odors and absorb liquids. However, you can also use sawdust, sand, straw, or even soil. Look around and use whatever is available. Here you have to hurry.
- Sprinkle as much absorbent material as possible. It usually takes quite a while to absorb all the puddles of gasoline.
- If you're near the kitchen, just use baking soda, cornstarch, or plain flour.
- Today, several companies manufacture special absorbent pads for accidents like this. The synthetic material in these pads is highly effective in dealing with petroleum-based spills.
Step 2. Allow the absorbent to sit on the spill for 1-2 hours
During this time, the material will absorb as much gasoline as possible. Meanwhile, make sure the area is not disturbed and the air flow is smooth. If you're in a hurry, let the absorbent material sit for at least 30 minutes.
Absorbents work by separating gasoline into very small droplets, then bonding them together to produce a gritty paste that is easier to clean than liquid
Step 3. Reuse materials as needed
For large spills, we recommend cleaning up the gritty gasoline paste before reusing the absorbent. Sweep or spoon the paste-like material into a bag or trash can, then sprinkle the absorbent on the wet area. Wait again for 30 minutes or so.
- Repeat this process until most of the gasoline is absorbed.
- Most likely you can't absorb all the gas. Allow the unabsorbed gasoline to evaporate, then scrub the residue clean.
Part 3 of 3: Waste Gas
Step 1. Sweep the gasoline paste into a separate container
Use a broom and dustpan to remove the gasoline paste from the spill area. If the spill occurs indoors, move the container outside to prevent gasoline fumes from settling in the room.
- Do not cover or seal containers that hold gasoline. Trapped gasoline vapors can settle inside and increase the risk of fire or explosion.
- Be prepared to do a deep cleaning or throw away all used containers.
Step 2. Scrape off all remaining gasoline
Once the worst of the disasters have been dealt with, it's time to move on to the surface that's spilled on gasoline. Ideally, use a squeegee or plastic scraper. Transfer the remaining gasoline to a plastic bag and combine it with the gasoline paste for disposal later.
If gasoline is spilled on carpets or upholstery, vacuum up excess gasoline and absorbent material with a vacuum cleaner before thoroughly cleaning the fabric
Step 3. Clean the area thoroughly
Wet a washcloth or sponge with hot water. Pour dish soap directly onto the spill area and rub it into a thick lather. Rub the stain vigorously to remove the dirt, then rinse the area with clean water and pat dry with a towel.
- If you don't want the surface to be damaged by water, try sprinkling dish soap or an absorbent material on the stain. Then, the cleaner can be mopped with a damp cloth.
- After you finish cleaning, wash your hands and any other body parts that have touched gasoline or gas fumes.
Step 4. Ask the local waste management center for help
Contact the fire department or pollution management agency for instructions on how to dispose of gasoline. Usually, they will send someone to you to handle flammable materials. Otherwise, they will give you advice on how to clean the petrol yourself.
- Never throw gasoline in a regular trash can. Toxic and flammable materials are disposed of in a special way.
- Gasoline can still cause a fire even after it has absorbed the absorbent material.
Tips
- This method is useful for controlling spills with a volume of 40 liters or less. If more, you need to use the services of emergency services.
- To prevent accidents, always store gasoline in a tightly closed container with the lid tightly closed.
- While refueling, do so slowly and only pull the handle when the nozzle is completely in the tank or canister. Never leave a gas station even if it is set to stop at a certain number.
- Always wear safety gloves, protective eyewear and a respirator when handling gasoline.
- Always prevent gasoline from spilling onto the ground, grass, or waterways (lakes, sewers, rivers, etc.). Even a small amount of gasoline can damage the environment. If it is confirmed that gasoline has spilled into the three areas, report it immediately.
- Gasoline is much thinner than water so it spreads quickly. Stop the flow of gasoline as soon as possible.
- If you work near gas, buy socks. An absorbent material such as a foamy object can be placed around a gasoline spill to partially stop its flow.
