Drums and cylinders can store and transport a wide range of compressed, hazardous and flammable substances, including ones with toxic, reactive and even explosive chemicals. With even a single cylinder being able to be a significant hazard, large quantities of these that are stored together can result in fatal incidents if not managed accordingly.
Therefore, it is critical that safe drum and cylinder handling procedures are followed to ensure effective drum and cylinder management, minimising the risks of potential incidents from happening.
Typically, chemical drums and cylinders hold small amounts of compressed gases within each container. With many containing hazardous substances, they are usually made from carbon steel to safely ship the chemicals from one place to another. They are also often stackable, with the drums and cylinders having been designed with dimensions in mind for efficient warehouse storage and logistics.
Cylinders should be stored preferably in the open air on a concrete or load-bearing surface. This is because the natural ventilation helps to keep any leaked gases within their explosion limits.
Drums and cylinders can store a wide range of toxic and flammable chemicals. However, they can also contain many compressed or liquefied gases, with uses across cooking, heating, soldering, welding and more. Some drums and cylinders are also compressed gas cylinders, which can be used for fire extinguishers.
Here are some detailed examples of what you’ll find within drums and cylinders:
These must be treated with extreme caution, as misuse of compressed gas cylinders can lead to:
A popular supply solution for a wide range of low to medium pressure packed gases, including:
Drum tanks can also be used to store refrigerants, such as:
There are seven of these that can be stored in drums and cylinders, including:
With drums and cylinders delivered to many public and private sector customers across 60+ countries, drums and cylinders storing packaged chemicals can be used across the follow industries:
Cylinders should always be stored in the upright position (unless otherwise instructed) so that the chemicals and various materials inside can be kept upright and the furthest away from spilling. This is also the case because of the immense pressure that is stored within the cylinders and drums.
The size of the stacks should be limited and separation distances had in between the stacks, with drums not being filled or emptied within the storage area.
In order to avoid serious injuries, precautions can be taken when moving drums and cylinders to prevent any potential harm or hazards. These are:
It is important to note the following instructions when handling drums and cylinders as a whole:
Safe drum and cycling handling is extremely crucial for ensuring the maximum health and safety across individuals, with devastating consequences if not followed. Without correct use, gas cylinders can explode and destroy equipment, as well as causing accidents to workers in extreme cases. Cylinders are also known for becoming flying projectiles when valves are damaged or broken off.
Our extensive range of lifting drums and cylinder storage can mean that you are able to look after your chemicals in a safe and effective manner.
From our drum dolly to drum storage units, we can assist you in safely storing flammable chemicals to give you that peace of mind.
We recommend starting with the following drum and cylinder storage units:
Designed to comply with the Flammable Liquid Storage Regulations (1972) as appropriate & the Factory Inspection Guide HSG51, our multipurpose storage vault is the ultimate storage solution for herbicides and petroleum based products.
Fitted with a central partition, four shelves and an adjustable vent, this model SSV03Z conforms to the A.P.E.A. (Association for Petroleum & Explosives Administration) construction requirements
Important: Chemicals that may react with each other must be kept separately at a distance of at least three metres.
These hazardous substance security cupboards separate chemicals securely, as commanded by the CoSHH regulations. Assembled from 1.5mm steel for ultimate strength and amalgamated with a superior anti-pick locking mechanism for extra security, these drum and cylinder cupboards are a must-have.
What’s more, the integral liquid-tight sump encourages the correct handling of spills through the use of absorbents, with the powder coating of Germ Guard Active Technology antibacterial plant creating an invisible antimicrobial protective barrier that continues to be active, even when dry. This gives long term surface protection against germs, for up to 8 days after a single protection.
Manufactured from 1.2mm sheet steel for extra strength and improved protection from fire penetration, these general storage cabinets are robustly constructed for flammable liquids.
With a stove enamel grey finish and adjustable galvanised shelves, this storage unit complies with Flammable Liquid Storage Regulations (1972) as appropriate and Health and Safety Guidance notes HSG51 and CS19.
Secure the safety of your toxic and flammable liquids within our extensive drum and cylinder storage units. Take a look at the full collection today.
For any enquiries, please feel free to contact us on 01364 651860 or alternatively, send us an email to enquiries@westernindustrialproducts.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.
