From storage to handling: IBC containers for safe operations in industrial environments
Storing and handling liquids in industrial environments requires careful work organisation and equipment suited to the specific liquid involved. Manufacturing facilities, warehouses, workshops and other businesses may need to safely store raw materials, technical fluids and various chemicals. IBC containers are widely used for these purposes, allowing relatively large volumes of liquid to be stored in a single container while also making transportation easier. However, choosing a suitable container is only part of the process – consideration must also be given to its placement, handling, spill protection and the overall organisation of the work area.
Using IBC containers in industrial environments
An IBC container, short for Intermediate Bulk Container, is a solution for storing and transporting liquids and, in some cases, bulk materials. Depending on their design and intended use, these containers can be used across a wide range of industries.
IBC containers are a practical option when smaller containers do not provide sufficient capacity, but installing a large stationary tank is unnecessary. Their standardised design can make it easier to organise storage areas and move liquids between different stages of the workflow.
It is important, however, to ensure that the selected container is suitable for the substance intended to be stored in it.
Capacity should match operational requirements
When selecting containers for liquid storage, one of the first considerations is the required capacity. This should be assessed alongside liquid consumption, delivery frequency and the space available in the warehouse or production area.
A 1,000-litre IBC container may be suitable for businesses that regularly need to store larger quantities of liquid in a single container. However, greater capacity also means greater overall weight, so the load-bearing capacity of the floor, the intended storage location and the method used to move a full container should all be assessed in advance.
Safe placement and spill protection
Every IBC container should be placed on a stable surface that is suitable for the specific working environment. Particular care is required when storing substances, the leakage of which could pose a risk to employees, the environment or property.
In such situations, spill containment solutions play an important role. Purpose-designed spill pallets or containment trays can help contain leaked liquids and prevent them from spreading uncontrollably throughout the work area. When selecting this type of equipment, consideration should be given to the size of the container, the properties of the stored substance and the applicable safety requirements.
Safe handling is an essential part of workplace safety
In industrial environments, containers are often used for more than static storage. They may need to be moved between goods receiving, storage and production areas.
Before moving an IBC container, ensure that it is properly sealed and that the handling equipment is suitable for both its dimensions and its weight when full. The transport route should also be assessed, taking into account the condition of the floor, thresholds, slopes, doorway widths and other potential obstacles. A carefully planned route reduces the risk of collisions and load instability.
A well-organised liquid storage area
Safety is closely linked to the layout of the work area. Containers should be positioned so that employees can easily access the required liquids while keeping aisles and transport routes clear.
Clear labelling is equally important. Information about the contents should be easy to identify, particularly when several substances are stored in the same area. Where necessary, different groups of substances should be separated according to their compatibility and applicable safety requirements.
Equipment for a well-planned industrial environment
Safe liquid storage requires consideration of the entire workflow - from container placement and spill control to handling and transportation. AJ Produkti offers equipment for organising industrial workplaces, including solutions designed to support safer IBC container placement and spill containment. By selecting equipment that meets the requirements of the specific working environment and the substances being stored, businesses can create a safer, more organised and easier-to-manage system for liquid storage and handling.
