Hazardous materials

Hazardous material (Hazmat) spills can occur on land or in water, and involve substances such as chemicals, radiation, biohazard materials, oil and gas, propane, flammable materials, industrial products, and mixed waste.  

If a hazardous material spill occurs at UBC, you may need to evacuate your building or Shelter-in-place. 

Chemical, bio-hazard or radiation spill 

Any uncontrolled release of hazardous materials is considered a spill and these procedures must be followed: 

1. Evacuate the immediate area and shut down any equipment. 
2. Isolate area and prevent re-entry. 
3. Call 911 and follow 911 procedures. Provide the following information to the operator: 
   • Exact location (street address, building/department, room number) 
   • Details of any injuries 
   • Chemical name and quantity spilled 
   • Known hazards 

4. Do not hang up until the operator says it is safe to do so. 
5. Wait outside the main entrance for emergency personnel. Provide information such as the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). 
6. Call Campus Security at 604-822-2222. 
7. Inform your Supervisor or Faculty/Department Head. 

Gas leak 

If you suspect a natural gas or propane leak: 

1. Stop what you’re doing. Do not use your cell phone or landline, smoke, light matches or operate electrical equipment or create any other source of ignition. 
2. Evacuate immediately: Leave the door open behind you and do not close any windows. 
3. Once outside, call: 
   • On campus: UBC Facilities Service Centre 604-822-2173 (24 hours) or 9-1-1, 
   • At home: FortisBC Emergency Line at 1-800-663-9911(24 hours) or 9-1-1.