Bunded Pallet | IBC & Drum Suppliers

Quite simply, they’re mandatory for every business storing hazardous liquids and chemicals. Bunded pallets drastically reduce the chance of site contamination and are suitable for storing almost all fuels and liquid chemicals.

Bunded pallet sizes and designs vary depending on the job they are required to do. Here are the main things to consider.

• Size and shape - From small, square pallets to store a single drum to long rectangles to store 3 or more drums side by side, the configuration of a bunded pallet will depend on your storage needs. 
• Mobility - If you need to move pallets around your facility, choose bunded pallets with fork pockets so they can be easily shifted on a pallet truck or forklift.
• Durability – Adverse weather can seriously damage bunded pallets if they are stored outdoors. If you plan to store chemicals outside your premises, covered or completely enclosed pallets are essential. 
• Extreme use – Most bunded pallets are made from polyethylene - plastic basically - and are suitable for the majority of liquid chemicals. However, for genuinely extreme circumstances, steel bunded pallets are available. 
• Compliance - The storage of chemicals is governed by stringent health and safety regulations. Make sure the pallets you choose comply with all Australian chemical storage requirements.

All chemicals, hazardous liquids, flammable liquids and toxic liquids must be stored on a bunded pallet.

Believe it or not, you can purchase a basic bunded pallet for as little as $170. However, for total peace of mind knowing your chemicals are stored on a sturdy, spill-free pallet, you’ll need to pay more in the region of $10,000.

Bunded pallets must be able to hold at least 110% of the largest drum’s capacity. Failure to adhere to this critical rule can cause serious spills. 

Spills can also occur when emptying bunded pallets; a serious problem, especially if immediate action isn’t taken to clean the spill and/or appropriate protective equipment isn’t worn.

They sure can. That’s why it’s critical to give them a regular and very thorough integrity test to ensure they continue to meet all Australian safety standards.

Aside from the regular testing mentioned above, any spills into the pallet need to be cleaned using a spill kit. 

The pallet can then be thoroughly cleaned with water and detergent. Make sure all wastewater from this cleaning process is captured and treated, not left to flow into storm water drains. 

Another great way to keep your pallets in pristine condition is to give them a regular steam clean.

All staff involved in the storage and handling of hazardous substances in your workplace should complete Hazardous Chemicals Awareness Training. This can be undertaken onsite or via Zoom for management groups wanting to increase their understanding of chemical handling.