Oil and chemical spills can cause serious environmental damage by contaminating soil, groundwater, rivers, and drainage systems. Industrial facilities should identify potential spill sources, assess environmental risks, and implement preventive controls during chemical storage, transfer, handling, and transportation. Chemicals and oils must be stored in compatible, clearly labelled containers, while tanks and storage areas should have suitable secondary containment to capture leaks. Regular inspections of pipelines, valves, pumps, hoses, and storage tanks can help identify damage before it leads to a spill. Drain covers and appropriate containment barriers should be available in areas where spills could reach watercourses or stormwater systems.

Workplaces should maintain spill response plans, provide suitable spill kits, and train employees to recognize and report leaks immediately. Workers must use appropriate personal protective equipment and follow the relevant safety data sheet instructions when responding to a spill. Only trained personnel should handle hazardous releases, and emergency services or specialist responders should be contacted when the incident exceeds the site's response capabilities. Contaminated absorbents, soil, and cleanup materials must be collected and disposed of according to applicable hazardous waste requirements. Preventive maintenance, effective containment, employee training, and prompt spill response help protect natural resources and reduce environmental pollution.