Know the procedure, and how to protect yourself when cleaning up a chemical spill.

Chemical Spills Before cleaning up a chemical spill make sure that you are aware of the hazards associated with the materials spilled, have adequate ventilation (open windows, chemical fume hood on), and proper personal protective equipment (minimum - gloves, goggles, and lab coat). You should only clean up by yourself relatively minor spills involving materials with low toxicity in situations where there is little ignitable or reactive risk. You should not clean up if you need to have respiratory protection.