Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Spill Containment Pallets Protect Your Employees And Plant

Spill Containment Pallets Protect Your Employees And Plant

By Katrina Wheeler


Manufacturing and processing plants, of all makes and sizes, range across the United States. The vast majority of these use chemicals in one form or another. All of them can be subject to the leaking or spilling that can occur from time to time. By using a system of spill containment pallets this does not have to be as dangerous as it otherwise would.

While some barrels, drums or tanks are stronger than others, they can all be subject to rough treatment or accidents. They can be shipped in with corrosion present or rust on them. These containers can be hit with any of the many moving pieces of equipment they come in contact with. They can fall and rupture and the problem is not necessarily the leaking, but what is done after this event has occurred that makes for a good or bad day.

If the leakage gets on the floor or a processing surfaces, it will have to be dealt with according to the procedures proscribed by the EPA, OSHA and, possibly, the FDA. These regulations will require the shutting down of that particular area and there goes production for a good portion of the rest of the day. This is not something to mess around with.

The personnel are moved into areas that are still working or sent to idle in the break areas. They may be sent home depending on the size of the spill and the codes promulgated by the local authorities. The hazardous material handling team will be called and will take over the area. They will analyze what has happened and start the process of reports, and clean up.

Neutralizing the chemical will be the first actual step in cleaning up this spill. The appropriate counter agents will have to be used to make this material inert. All of this will be placed into a labeled drum for disposal. All supplies used as well the protective gowning used by the hazardous material team will go into this drum as well. The cleaning of the area, by a custodial crew trained in this work will then be completed.

That entire process must be conducted so that there is no contamination of other areas and to ensure no personnel are affected. With a containment pallet, there is no spill onto the floor. Any leakage will be allowed to flow into the reservoir in the bottom of the pallet. There is enough room in this reservoir for the entire contents of the drums, barrels or tank that is placed on it. No spill means no complicated shutdown and EPA procedures.

When and if a leak is noticed, by any personnel, an alarm can be raised to remove it from the area. The production can continue as another drum can be brought in and the leaking one can be moved to a cleaning area. In the cleaning area quick action can remedy the situation and not personnel will be effected. This action is the emptying of the container, neutralizing the interior of the pallet and cleaning it out. It can then be put back into service.

The various sizes of spill containment pallets are quite popular as they protect your employees, and any visitors allowed in this area from contact with any chemicals. They do not allow the spills that will cause a massive cleaning project. The material they are constructed from will be non reactive and strong enough to last for a very long time.




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