What is a Spill Pallet? Complete Guide to Drum Bunding
If you store drums of oil, chemicals, fuel, or other hazardous liquids at your workplace, a spill pallet (also known as a bunded pallet or drum bund) is likely a legal requirement — not simply a best-practice recommendation. This guide explains what spill pallets are, what they do, how to select the right one, and what UK regulations govern their use.
What Is a Spill Pallet?
A spill pallet is a secondary containment platform designed to hold drums, barrels, or containers of liquid. It incorporates an integral sump — a sealed reservoir beneath the grating surface — that collects any leaks, drips, or spills from the containers stored on top. If a drum develops a leak, corrodes, or is accidentally punctured, the sump catches the liquid before it can escape across the floor, into a drain, or reach the wider environment.
Spill pallets are available in a wide range of capacities and configurations, from single-drum units suitable for a 205-litre barrel to four-drum platforms accommodating up to 880 litres of liquid product.
UK Legal Requirements for Drum Bunding
The requirement for secondary containment when storing hazardous liquids derives from several pieces of legislation:
- Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations 2001 — Mandates secondary containment for above-ground oil storage of 200 litres or more at commercial and industrial premises in England. The bund must hold 110% of the largest container stored within it.
- COSHH Regulations 2002 — Requires employers to control risks from hazardous substances, including preventing accidental release through adequate containment.
- Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016 — Operators must take all appropriate preventative measures against environmental pollution.
- Water Resources Act 1991 — Makes it a criminal offence to knowingly permit any poisonous, noxious, or polluting matter to enter controlled waters.
Spill Pallet Types and Capacities
| Pallet Type | Drum Capacity | Sump Capacity | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Drum Spill Pallet | 1 x 205L drum | 220–250 litres | Single drum storage, workshop corner |
| 2-Drum Spill Pallet | 2 x 205L drums | 225–275 litres | Small chemical store, maintenance area |
| 4-Drum Spill Pallet | 4 x 205L drums | 225–440 litres | Drum store, hazardous substance area |
| IBC Bund Pallet | 1 x 1,000L IBC | 1,100 litres | IBC storage, bulk liquid containment |
| Modular/Custom Bund | Variable | Variable | Large-scale storage, bespoke requirements |
Choosing the Right Spill Pallet
When selecting a spill pallet, consider the following:
- Sump capacity: Must be at least 110% of the largest single container stored on the pallet.
- Chemical compatibility: Standard polyethylene pallets are suitable for most oils, fuels, and water-based chemicals. For aggressive acids or solvents, confirm compatibility with the manufacturer.
- Load rating: Ensure the pallet's static load rating exceeds the total weight of containers plus contents. A full 205-litre drum of oil weighs approximately 180 kg.
- Indoor vs outdoor: Outdoor pallets require lids or covers to prevent rainwater from filling the sump and reducing its effective capacity.
- Forklift access: Many pallets include forklift pockets for easy relocation. Check that your forklift tine width matches the pallet specification.
View our full range of spill pallets and drum bunds, including economy, heavy-duty, and covered variants for outdoor use.
Maintenance and Inspection
A spill pallet is only effective if it is maintained correctly. Best practice — and often a requirement under your site's environmental management system — includes monthly visual inspections to check for cracks, damage, or sump contamination. The sump should be kept clear of accumulated rainwater, spent absorbents, and solid debris. Any liquid in the sump should be tested and disposed of as hazardous waste in accordance with the Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005.
Spill Pallets in a Complete Spill Management System
A spill pallet is one component of a broader spill management strategy. Pair your drum bunding with appropriately specified spill kits located nearby, staff training in emergency spill response, and a written spill response procedure as part of your COSHH documentation. Together, these measures demonstrate the kind of proactive compliance that both the HSE and Environment Agency expect to see during site inspections.
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