Every UK business working with hazardous chemicals will require some form of chemical spill protection in order to safeguard both employees and the environment. Even if you’re storing chemicals in very small quantities, it’s still something you’ll need to consider.
To help you choose the right spill control product, we’ve compiled a quick guide to the most common types available, with links to further information so you can identify the best level of protection for your organisation.
(1) Spill Trays
If you’re storing or handling small chemical containers, a spill tray is probably the most effective and economical solution. Any liquid from containers placed on these bunded trays will be safely captured in the tray below, providing immediate protection for spills, leaks and drips. Many trays are made from moulded plastics such as polyethylene, which ensures they are both strong and resistant to corrosion, withstanding most common oils, acids and alkalis. Ideal for businesses with low-level chemical storage requirements, spill trays are available in a variety of sizes and designs.
(2) Spill Pallets
Use spill pallets in your warehouse for the safe storage of chemical drums. Each pallet features a bunded enclosure to catch leaks or drips, plus a sturdy deck to keep drums away from spilt liquids. Most decks are detachable so they’re easy to clean and any captured chemicals can be removed effortlessly. For ease of handling, spill pallets are generally stackable and can be transported via a pallet truck or forklift truck. Depending on the quantity of drums being stored, you’ll want to choose either corrosion-resistant plastic or heavy-duty steel pallets.
(3) Spill Decks
When working with chemical drums at ground level, a spill deck provides a safe working area where leaks and spills are collected and contained. For extended protection, spill decks can be linked together to create a designated bunded work floor area, or even custom manufactured to completely bund the floor of an entire workroom or store. Although spill decks are often made from high strength plastic, they can also be constructed from heavy duty steel to withstand heavier loads. Determine which type is best for you, and take a moment to consider appropriate ramp access, by exploring spill deck options.
(4) IBC Bunds
When storing or handling 1000 litre IBC containers, you’ll want to think carefully about how to prevent any leaks or spills that could cause harmful pollution. IBC bunds provide vital protection for volume chemical storage and should always be leak tested, load tested, and certified to ensure optimum functionality. In addition to capacity, you’ll also want to consider construction, since IBC bunds are supplied in various sizes, styles and materials to accommodate different chemicals and hazardous substances. Take a look at the various IBC bunds available to explore which options best match your needs.
Sometimes the most cost-effective option is to convert existing pallet racking into a safe, bunded chemical storage solution. Pallet racking bunds are perfect in this situation, ensuring that any leaks from drums or IBCs won’t spill onto the floor, or damage products stored in the surrounding area. Moulded plastic construction ensures compatibility with a variety of corrosive chemicals, but you may also want to investigate epoxy coated steel bunds, which can be custom manufactured to meet specific requirements. Follow the link to discover how standard pallet racking can be transformed into bunded storage using pallet rack bunds.
Spill containment barriers can be installed across doorways and other entry or exit points to ensure that spilled chemicals, oils, and contaminated fire water does not spread from one area of your premises to another. Opt for a slide in barrier that can be fitted manually as and when required or install a permanent hinged barrier that could even be linked to your fire alarm or warning systems for automatic operation in an emergency.
Ask the UK’s chemical storage experts
These are just some of the most common spill control options available to businesses that regularly handle, store or transport hazardous chemicals, but there are also a host of other solutions at your disposal. For example, drum dispensing stations allow chemicals to be safely decanted or dispensed, while bunded trolleys provide spill-proof transport, so staff can easily move chemical containers by hand. You may even want to invest in drain seals so that in the event of a spill, you can quickly deploy vital spill protection for storm water drains.
If you’d like to speak to a chemical storage expert about your specific needs, get in touch – we’d be delighted to help.