IBC tote

IBCs fill the gap between drums and large storage tanks. They are made for handling with forklifts or pallet jacks and often have a bottom valve for dispensing and a top opening for filling. Variations include rigid plastic, composite, metal and flexible types, and designs for solids and for liquids.

Those used for hazardous materials in transport must meet the performance standards in the DOT hazmat rules, 49 CFR Parts 171-180, and carry markings showing their approval and the type of materials allowed. The Packing group and DOT hazard class of the contents decide whether a given IBC is permitted. Reusing a tote for a different chemical needs care, since residues can react and the tote material may not be compatible.

Hazards at the workplace include spills when connecting or disconnecting valves, tipping when moved with a forklift, static electricity when handling flammable liquids, and damage to the valve. Use Grounding and bonding when moving flammable liquids, place totes in Secondary containment, and keep them segregated from incompatible materials. The plastic body may be translucent, and the contents can be affected by sunlight or heat.

Label every tote with the supplier label or an in-house Workplace label. Empty totes may still hold residue and should be treated as hazardous until cleaned or properly handled. Totes are a type of Bulk container, so the same planning for spills, inspection and emergency response applies.