Spill Prevention and Response
Texas A&M University is committed to protecting land and water resources by preventing pollutants from entering the environment and reducing their impact when present. In accordance with the Oil Pollution Act, our comprehensive Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan is designed to ensure that our campus adheres to the highest environmental standards.
Overview
Our mission is straightforward: Prevention, Preparation, and Response. The Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasures (SPCC) Plan employs a layered, proactive approach to protect our land and waterways. Preventive measures are integrated into daily operations through strategies such as double-walled containment, leak detection systems, and targeted training programs.
Preparation efforts focus on fostering strong coordination between EHS and the campus community to ensure we are ready to take timely, effective action. Response actions include rapid emergency procedures designed to contain spills, minimize environmental impact, and remediate affected areas.
Shared Responsibilities
Protecting Texas A&M’s campus resources is a collaborative effort between Environmental Health & Safety and campus departments.
EHS Responsibilities
- Maintain, update and amend the master SPCC Plan
- Provide specialized training for personnel managing bulk storage of oil and hazardous materials
- Respond to significant hazardous material spills and oversee cleanup and remediation efforts
Campus Departments’ Responsibilities
- Conduct and document daily and monthly inspections of bulk oil and hazardous material storage systems and containment
- Maintain detailed inspection logs and submit copies to EHS
- Ensure all relevant personnel complete required annual training
- Notify EHS or Texas A&M Customer Service promptly regarding spills, leaks, or concerns
Goals
Our strategy focuses on preventing spills before they occur, minimizing impacts when they do occur, and ensuring readiness to mitigate potential contamination.
- Containment: Utilize double-walled tanks, dikes, and secondary containment systems to reduce the risk of hazardous material spills.
- Detection: Implement leak detection systems and overfill protection to identify and address issues before they escalate.
- Readiness: Ensure facilities are equipped with specialized spill kits and that personnel are trained in effective response procedures.
Report a Hazardous Materials Spill
If you notice a spill, accidental discharge, or a leaking tank, please report it immediately by calling 979-845-2132 (during business hours) or by calling Texas A&M Customer Service at 979-845-4311 (after hours). For emergencies requiring an immediate response, call 911.