Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) Safety Assessment Practice Test

What should be the immediate action taken by a worker who discovers a hazardous material spill?

1. Attempt to clean it up

2. Notify their supervisor immediately

3. Leave the area

4. Wait for instructions from HR

The correct answer is: Notify their supervisor immediately

When a worker discovers a hazardous material spill, the appropriate immediate action is to notify their supervisor immediately. This is crucial because the supervisor is typically responsible for assessing the situation and determining the best course of action in response to the spill. They are trained to handle such incidents or to engage the appropriate response team. Notifying the supervisor ensures that proper protocols can be followed to mitigate the risk posed by the hazardous material, including securing the area and possibly evacuating workers if necessary. This action prioritizes the safety of all employees, as they may not have the proper training, equipment, or procedures in place to safely manage hazardous materials themselves. Other responses, such as attempting to clean up the spill without proper training, leaving the area without alerting others, or waiting for instructions from HR, could lead to increased danger for the worker and others nearby. Hazardous materials can pose serious health risks, and proper channels must be followed to ensure effective and safe containment or cleanup.