What is IBC Bunding
Bunding is a critical aspect of safe chemical storage in industrial and commercial environments. In Australia, the transportation, storage, and handling of dangerous goods are regulated by the Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code, which is a set of guidelines that outlines the requirements for the safe transport and handling of hazardous materials. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of bunding intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) in accordance with Australian regulations. Importantly Australian Standards such as AS1940-2017 identify specific requirements around the specific chemical types that are involved, in the case of AS1940-2017 it deals with flammable and combustible materials
What is Bunding?
Bunding is a containment system that is designed to prevent spills and leaks of hazardous materials. Bunding involves creating a secondary containment system around a primary storage vessel, such as an IBC. The bund can be made from a variety of materials, including concrete, steel, or plastic.
The purpose of bunding is to contain any spills or leaks that may occur, preventing the hazardous material from contaminating the environment. In addition to environmental protection, bunding also helps to protect the health and safety of workers by reducing the risk of exposure to hazardous materials.
Why is Bunding Important for IBCs?
Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are commonly used in industrial and commercial environments for the storage and transportation of hazardous materials. IBCs can hold up to 1,000 litres of liquid, making them a convenient and efficient option for the storage and transport of chemicals.
However, IBCs can also be a significant hazard if they are not properly contained. In the event of a spill or leak, hazardous materials can contaminate the environment, putting workers and the public at risk.
This is why it is essential to bund IBCs in accordance with Australian regulations. The ADG Code requires that hazardous materials be stored in a way that prevents spills and leaks. This includes the use of appropriate containment systems, such as bunds. It is important that all appropriate regulations are reviewed to ensure IBC bunds are suitable for your circumstances.
In addition to regulatory compliance, there are many other reasons why bunding IBCs is important. Here are just a few:
Prevents Environmental Contamination
The primary purpose of bunding is to prevent spills and leaks of hazardous materials, which can have a significant impact on the environment. Spills and leaks can contaminate soil, water, and air, which can have long-lasting effects on the environment and local ecosystems.
By bunding IBCs, you can prevent spills and leaks from reaching the environment, protecting local ecosystems and wildlife.
Protects the Health and Safety of Workers
Hazardous materials can pose a significant risk to the health and safety of workers. Exposure to hazardous materials can cause a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even cancer.
By bunding IBCs, you can reduce the risk of exposure to hazardous materials, protecting the health and safety of workers.
Reduces the Risk of Accidents and Incidents
Spills and leaks can also increase the risk of accidents and incidents in the workplace. Slippery floors, for example, can increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls, while hazardous vapours can increase the risk of fires and explosions.
By bunding IBCs, you can reduce the risk of spills and leaks, preventing accidents and incidents in the workplace.
Minimizes the Risk of Regulatory Non-Compliance
As mentioned earlier, bunding IBCs is a requirement under Australian regulations. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and penalties, as well as reputational damage.
By bunding IBCs in accordance with Australian regulations, you can minimize the risk of regulatory non-compliance, protecting your business from potential fines and penalties.
Improves Overall Efficiency
Finally, bunding IBCs can also improve the overall efficiency of your operations. By preventing spills and leaks, you can reduce the need for clean-up and downtime, minimizing the impact on your operations.