Liquids are among the trickiest loads to transport. Without the right containers for the job, a simple job can quickly turn messy. IBC totes are specially designed to make handling and transporting most types of liquids, including flammable and hazardous liquids, relatively easy. Unlike plastic drums that can be bulky, IBC totes are easy to use, take less space, and are cost-efficient. One can also order rebottled IBC totes for specific liquids and applications. Although considerably safer than plastic drums, IBC totes should be handled carefully to keep your liquids safe. All transportation guidelines should be followed to the letter.
Why IBC Totes Are Ideal For Transporting Liquids
1. They Take Up Less Space
IBC totes can store large volumes of liquids while taking up a fraction of the space. It’s worth noting that totes can store between 119 and 703 gallons of liquids in a considerably small space, much less than what 55-gallon drums would occupy. One of the most popular are 275 gallon reconditioned IBC totes. With only one container needed to store such vast volumes, moving the same becomes considerably easier as well. All that is needed is a pallet under the tote, and the entire load can be moved in one go.
2. It Is Ideal For Flammable Liquids
IBC totes are designed with an additional protective layer/lining to make moving/storing volatile and flammable liquids safer. Chemical totes are specially made to store and transport flammable liquids, giving you peace of mind knowing your shipment will arrive in one piece. The cube-shaped IBC totes help ensure they are firmly anchored in one place.
3. They Are Easy To Transfer
Moving IBC totes is much easier when compared to plastic drums. The totes can be lifted and moved around with a forklift easily. A simple wood or plastic pallet is, however, needed to move totes around safely. Totes also come with a spout/tap on one side, allowing the contents to be emptied at the turn of a knob.
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Factors To Consider When Storing Chemicals In Warehouses
a. Proper labeling
Proper labeling is crucial when storing chemicals in warehouses. Every IBC tote should be labeled accordingly, detailing the contents, date, and how it should be handled/stored. This is especially important if your warehouse handles different types of chemicals in large volumes. The warehouse operators should also be familiar with the contents as well. This is to reduce the risk of mishandling (unknowingly) a hazardous material.
b. Inspect Before Use
Although totes are designed to be durable, it is good practice to inspect your IBC totes before using them for the first time and when refilling. Some of the things to watch out for include missing labels, debris from the last use/shipment, holes, and scrapes. Be sure to wash the tote thoroughly before use, especially when looking to fill it with a different liquid. This will help prevent possible hazards and cross-contamination. Never store drinking water in totes that were used to store hazardous materials.
c. Never Overfill
Never fill your totes beyond the recommended capacity. Most manufacturers place clear indention on the recommended level to ensure the tote is stable and limit the risk of spilling. The excess weight will also worsen handling, increasing the risk of spills. The last thing you want is for hazardous material to spill on the floor or, even worse, on an employee.
d. Keep Totes Secure
Every tote is unique. For this reason, it would be advisable to read the user manual and handling instructions before using a tote. As a rule of thumb, always place your IBC totes on a plastic or wooden pallet. This helps protect the plastic lining from possible damage. It would also be best to lift the totes from the bottom using the pallets as a base to avoid puncturing the plastics.
Sealing and unsealing a tote’s cover should be done with utmost care and attention. One of the reasons for this is that some liquids are quite volatile and tend to build pressure over time. They thus release the pressure when the cover is unsealed. Proper safety measures, e.g., wearing safety goggles and masks, should be followed when sealing and unsealing totes filled with hazardous material.
e. Check The Label
As mentioned, every tote is unique and designed for a specific purpose. Some totes cannot handle certain types of liquids, a reason you should read the label first before use. The label will indicate what can or shouldn’t be used in the container. It is common for some totes to have gaskets to ensure a tight seal, especially if filled with hazardous chemicals. These gaskets may be eroded over time, a reason you should inspect them first before reusing the container.
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