Outdoor Containment – An Overview

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Storing hazardous substances outside

Across many industries, there is often the requirement to store the hazardous substances that they use, outdoors. This might be due to a lack of space indoors, the need to segregate non-compatible substances, or because the regulations determine that larger containers, e.g. 200L drums or 1,000L IBC’s, cannot be stored within a building.

Depending on the hazard class of the substance(s), in many situations these products will need to be on or within some form of secondary containment, or what is referred to sometimes as ‘bunding’. This is to contain any hazardous substances in the event of a leak or spill, and to prevent them from entering the stormwater system and causing major harm to the environment. Solutions take the form of concrete block walls, lined berms or most commonly, relocatable spill containment pallets – see our range here.

The level of secondary containment necessary will vary depending on the class and quantity in question – contact our team for more information.

For more information on weather proofing your secondary containment systems, read our editorial here.

The challenges faced when storing outdoors

One of the key challenges faced when storing hazardous substances on secondary containment systems, is how to keep the rainwater out.  Allowing rainwater to enter the bund causes a number of problems:

1. It takes up the secondary containment space, reducing the capacity of the system to hold the hazardous substance, therefore impacting site compliance
2. Also, if chemicals have got into the bund, there is now the challenge of draining the rainwater without accidentally releasing a hazardous substance into the environment

What are Hardcovers?

In simple terms, a Hardcover is a covered spill containment pallet. Its walls and roof surround the spill pallet and the liquids stored on it, preventing not only the weather from getting in, but also unauthorised personnel from accessing the costly and/or dangerous chemicals held within.

Why do I need a Hardcover?

If you are storing hazardous chemicals outdoors, which need to be kept contained to comply with environmental legislation, then a Hardcover can be
a fast and effective solution. Additionally, they help keep non-compatible substances segregated from other chemicals or secured from unauthorised access.

Is it safe to store hazardous substances in a Hardcover?

Yes, in almost every case your Hardcover is perfectly suitable for storing your hazardous substances. The rugged polyethylene construction ensures it will stand up to some of the strongest acids. To double check, please refer to our compatibility guide to make sure this applies to the liquids you have in your situation.

Will Hardcovers rust?

No, for the same reason as outlined in the previous point, Hardcovers are completely resistant to rust and corrosion. For more information on the benefits of polyethylene, click here.

If there is a spill, how can I empty/clean a Hardcover?

Should one or more of the containers stored inside your Hardcover leak, the grating these sit on can be easily removed, and the containment area wiped out with dedicated absorbent pads, or pumped out in the case of larger volumes.

What are the different sizes of Hardcovers?

There are 4 different sizes of Roll Tops.

For 200L drums:

• Hazero 2 Drum Roll Top
• Hazero 4 Drum Roll Top
• New Pig Roll Top - 2 Drum
• New Pig Roll Top - 4 Drum

For 1,000L IBC’s:

• Hazero Hardcover - Single IBC
• New Pig Roll Top - Single IBC
• New Pig Roll Top - Double IBC

The Hazero Shield of Honour

The Hazero Shield of Honour is more powerful than a “lifetime guarantee”.

It means our reputation is on the line not only when a product is sold, but every single time it is used. If the product doesn’t meet your expectations over the next 99 years, we or our descendants (we’re a multi-generational company), will refund, replace, or repair it. Free of charge.

You don’t need a receipt. Or even a reason. No questions asked.

Naturally, that’s so long as you use your Hazero product as intended and in accordance with existing legislation.

Shield your people. Shield your business. Find out more here.

Please note: The Shield of Honour applies to Hazero Hardcovers only. The New Pig Roll Top units are covered by a 12 month warranty.

Creating safer working environments

At Hazero our mission is zero hazards. Our extensive range of quality products will help you store, contain and control and clean-up dangerous goods and hazardous substances.

View our full range of Outdoor Containment units here.

Need help creating a safer working environment? Contact our team today on 0800 688 844 or email us at help@hazero.co.nz. Our team are also available for on-site assessments across New Zealand, click here to request a site visit.

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