Spill containment might not be the most exciting part of running a facility, but it’s one of the most important when it comes to safety, compliance, and environmental responsibility. So, what types of spill containment solutions are available, and which one is best for your situation?
Floor Bunding
Floor bunding is a permanent barrier installed directly on the floor to contain spills and leaks within a designated area. It’s commonly found in warehouses, workshops, wash bays, and storage zones.
Pros
Permanent and Durable: Often made from heavy-duty rubber or solid composite materials, floor bunding is built to last - it can handle constant use without breaking down.
Suitable for Heavy Traffic: Drive-over options are engineered to handle forklifts and other vehicles, making them ideal for high-traffic zones.
Wide Application: Whether it’s a storage area or a vehicle wash bay, floor bunding works well across many industrial environments.
Cost-Effective: While the upfront investment may be higher, the longevity of floor bunding often makes it a more economical option over time.
Cons
Fixed Placement: Once installed, floor bunding remains fixed, limiting flexibility in environments where the layout needs to change or adapt regularly.
Potential Trip Hazard: If bunding isn’t installed correctly or begins to wear down, it can become a tripping risk.
Less Suitable for Temporary Needs: As it’s permanently fixed in place, floor bunding isn’t ideal for temporary projects or mobile setups that require flexibility and ease of relocation.
Temporary or Emergency Bunding
Temporary bunding offers a quick and easy solution for unexpected spills or short-term use.
Pros
Fast and Simple to Deploy: Temporary bunding can be set up quickly with minimal tools or training, making it a practical choice for unexpected spills or short-term containment needs.
Cons
Short Term Durability: Temporary bunding isn’t designed for ongoing use and may wear down quickly under constant exposure to liquids, heavy equipment, or foot traffic.
Portable Bunding
Portable bunding can be set up wherever it’s needed and packed away when it’s not.
Pros
Highly Versatile: Portable bunding can be easily relocated and used across multiple sites or work zones, making it ideal for operations that require frequent setup changes or mobile spill containment solutions.
Cons
High Maintenance Option: Portable Bunding requires a level surface, can be awkward to relocate, and may wear out faster than floor bunding under regular use.
Flexible Floor Bunding
Flexible floor bunding offers a middle ground between rigid and portable options.
Pros
Low-Profile and adaptive: Flexible floor bunding conforms to uneven surfaces and is gentler underfoot, reducing the risk of trips and falls in high-traffic areas.
Cons
Less Rugged Option: It doesn’t offer the same long-term durability as fixed, heavy-duty options and can be more vulnerable to wear and tear.
Bunded Pallets
Bundled pallets are another practical containment method that’s perfect for safely storing drums or IBCs.
Pros
Portable and Targeted: Bunded pallets are easy to move and offer targeted spill control for specific items.
Cons
Restrictive: They can interfere with forklift movement and may not be suitable for larger-scale storage needs.
Finding the Right Fit for Your Site
Selecting the best spill containment method depends on your specific setup, including liquid type, traffic levels, and layout flexibility. Understanding the pros and cons of each option helps ensure your choice supports safety, efficiency, and long-term compliance.