The Importance of Proper Oil Drum Handling and Storage

There are many different hazards that pose life threatening risks to workers every day, this is because of all the different chemicals and liquids that could induce corrosion or spontaneously combust. The first thing any employer should have on their mind when starting an operation that uses these hazardous goods is how to train their employees on the proper handling and storage of such dangerous items. The site where the hazardous goods are being handled should have all of the equipment required to safely transport and store them, and this is a requirement since moving any container such as an oil drum by hand or by standard forklift can be extremely dangerous.

This is why there is specialized drum tilter equipment which lets you carry a drum without having to pick it up, they come in a few forms but the most commonly used one is the cradle tilter. But it's only useful for a singular barrel, you can secure the barrel to the cradle and carry it or tilt it to pour out the oil into a different container. And most tilters are simply made to transport an oil drum from one place to another but you have to consider a few factors before you get one for your warehouse.

You'll have to look out for what materials the drum tilter equipment is made of, namely if the steel is stainless and if it has been galvanized (coated with zinc). The stainless steel speaks for itself but the zinc coating is so it's even less susceptible to rusting and corrosion. There is also powered drum tilter equipment which has the same capabilities as a forklift, except it can also rotate the drum for better placement into the storage area. You can also use a forklift, but it requires that you install a drum rack to its fork. This is because placing a drum on the fork by itself will simply cause it to roll off or tilt over and fall easily. However if you're not keen on having to install something to the forklift every time you want to transport a barrel you could also simply use a tine hook with tongs or a sling to lift it.

By simply using the right equipment to transport the barrels you are putting your workers out of harm's way. Because securely fastening a barrel to strong and stable equipment is simply the best way of transporting them, while also keeping them sealed and secure from leaks and shaking while being stored in a new area.