When a spill is already happening, you don’t have time for elegant bunding or drains. You need absorbents — fast, efficient, dependable. Absorbent granules are often the unsung cleaning heroes.
What are absorbent granules?
They’re loose, inert materials (clays, silicas, synthetic sorbents) that soak up liquids. Spill Containment UK lists a selection of absorbent granules suited for many applications. spillcontainment.uk
Where they shine
Minor drips under pumps, spills during transfer, small leaks
In workshops, labs, plant rooms — places where containment systems might not catch every drop
Places where you need to immobilise liquid before it gets to drains, cracks, or soil
How to use them effectively
Pour or spread granules over the liquid (start at edges to contain flow)
Let the granules absorb (time depends on fluid type and thickness)
Sweep or vacuum up the saturated granules into disposal bags or containers
Check area for residue; use further absorbents if needed
Dispose of the used granules per regulations (hazardous waste if fluid is toxic)
Tips for selection
Match sorbent to fluid type (oil, solvent, chemical)
Consider absorption capacity (how many litres per kg)
Dust control is a factor — some granules are less dusty
Ease of cleanup: bigger granule size vs fine powder tradeoffs
Shelf life, storage environment, and safety labels
Common misconceptions
“Granules will solve any spill” — false. They work for small to moderate spills, not large bulk leaks.
“All absorbents are the same” — wrong. Oil-only vs universal vs chemical-grade make a big difference.
“Once granules are down, job’s done” — no. You must remove used granules, clean surfaces, and check underlying leaks.
Conclusion
Granules aren’t glamorous, but when you need to stop a leak fast, they’re indispensable. Pair them with spill kits, bunding and good training — and your site is far more resilient when accidents happen.