In modern industrial and commercial workplace involving hazardous liquids spill control and safety are top priorities. They are a liability to the environment, to workers and can result in costly fines and reputational damage. Perhaps one of the best perceived tools to combat these risks is the pallet bund. It is necessary equipment to maintain the safety, to be in accordance with environmental regulations, and preserving the continuity of business.
What Are Pallet Bunds?
Containment systems, like pallet bunds (also known as spill pallets or bunded pallets) are used to hold drums, containers, and more specifically Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) which store hazardous liquids. The typical grating over the top surface of these bunds has containers, and they have an underlying sump to collect and contain any leaked or spilled liquid. Versatile Pallet Bunding for Diverse Needs are built from different materials such as polyethylene or steel, which makes them powerful and reliable to chemicals, oils and other potentially dangerous substances.
How Do Pallet Bunds Work?
Pallet bunds operate on a simple principle: containment and control. If a leak or spill occurs from a drum or container, the liquid seeps through the grating and is captured in the bund’s sump. This prevents the liquid from spreading across the floor, reducing the risk of slips, falls, and chemical exposure. Pallet bunds enable quick cleanup and disposal while minimising workplace disruption by confining spills to a single, manageable area.
Key Reasons Why Pallet Bunds Are Essential
- Environmental Compliance
Environmental regulations worldwide, such as the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) in the UK, mandate businesses to implement spill control measures. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, shutdowns, or legal action. Pallet bunds provide an effective solution to meet compliance standards. They prevent hazardous substances from contaminating soil, water, and drainage systems. Companies demonstrate a proactive approach to environmental stewardship by capturing spills before they can spread.
- Workplace Safety
Slips, trips, and fall are one of the most common workplace injuries. Oil or chemical spills on floors can, for example, make floors appear slippery, which puts people at greater risk of falling and slipping on such surfaces. Such incidents are prevented by the pallet bunds containing spills at the source and thus reducing exposure to potentially hazardous areas. It prevents the risk of chemical burns, respiratory problems, and a host of other health related hazards that can come along with a worker’s direct contact with very dangerous substances.
- Fire Risk Mitigation
Certain chemicals and flammable liquids stored in drums and IBCs can pose a fire risk if leaked. Spills spread across a floor increase the chance of fire ignition. Pallet bunds reduce this risk by confining spills to a smaller area, limiting the possibility of ignition from nearby equipment, sparks, or static electricity. Pallet bunds are critical to fire prevention strategies for industries that store volatile substances.
- Cost Savings on Cleanup and Downtime
Spill cleanup is not only time-consuming but also costly. When a significant spill occurs, businesses must halt operations, call in cleanup crews, and dispose of contaminated materials. These disruptions can lead to expensive downtime and lost productivity. Pallet bunds drastically reduce cleanup times and associated costs by containing spills at the source. They simplify spill management, enabling employees to clean up safely and resume normal operations quickly.
- Protection of Equipment and Inventory
In an industrial environment, a spill can damage equipment, inventory, and raw materials. Corrosive chemicals that spread across a floor can degrade the surface, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Pallet bunds contain these substances, preventing them from reaching valuable equipment and inventory. As a result, businesses avoid expensive replacements and maintain operational efficiency.
Types of Pallet Bunds
- Single Drum Bunds:
Designed to hold one drum, these are ideal for smaller operations where only a limited volume of hazardous liquids is stored.
- Multi-Drum Bunds:
Capable of holding multiple drums, these bunds are suitable for more extensive facilities with high storage needs.
- IBC Bunds:
Specifically designed to support larger Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), which hold significant quantities of liquid. These bunds have a larger sump capacity to accommodate spills from bulk containers.
- Modular Bund Systems:
Customisable bunding systems that can be adjusted to fit unique storage and containment needs.
Key Features to Look For in a Pallet Bund
When selecting a pallet bundle, it’s essential to consider specific features to ensure it meets your operational needs. Key features include:
- Load Capacity:
Ensure the bund can support the total weight of the drums, IBCs, or containers placed on it.
- Sump Capacity:
Regulations often require the sump capacity to hold at least 110% of the enormous container’s volume or 25% of the total stored liquid.
- Chemical Resistance:
Ensure the bund material can resist corrosion from the substances it will contain.
- Portability:
Mobile or modular bunds can be moved around the facility as needed.
How to Maintain and Use Pallet Bunds Effectively
To maximise the effectiveness of pallet bunds, businesses should follow best practices, including:
- Regular Inspections:
Check bunds for cracks, leaks, and blockages in the grating.
- Employee Training:
Ensure workers know how to use bunds properly and understand spill response protocols.
- Timely Cleanup:
Remove captured liquids promptly to prevent overfilling the sump and ensure ongoing effectiveness.
- Compliance Checks:
Periodically review regulatory requirements to ensure the bunds’ capacity and design remain compliant with industry standards.
Conclusion
Any business dealing with hazardous liquids must invest in pallet bunds. With so many benefits, spill containment systems are a great choice as to ensure that you are working safely and are also environmentally compliant. Pallet bunds can be controlled to reduce spill hazards at source, reduce risk of slips, chemical exposure and fire hazards, protecting equipment and minimising costs of clean up. In modern industrial settings, their role in safeguarding the environment and supporting regulatory compliance make them an essential non negotiable asset. Pallet bunds are an indispensable tool for businesses, and still remain today, to ensure operational efficiency, reduce risk, and fulfil their environmental responsibilities.
