Retention Bins for hazardous products

Hazardous products, such as oils, solvents, or acids, represent a major risk for the environment and the safety of workers in case of leakage or spillage. That’s why the use of retention bins is essential. These storage equipment, often mandatory, allow the containment of dangerous liquids and prevent them from spreading.

What is a retention bin?

A retention tank is a watertight basin or platform designed to collect leaks and spills from liquids stored in drums, containers, or tanks. Its main role is to prevent soil and groundwater contamination by retaining potentially hazardous liquid.

Materials and capabilities

Retention bins are made of different materials to adapt to the products they must contain.

• Galvanized or painted steel: Ideal for petroleum products, solvents, and flammable liquids. They are very robust and durable.
• Plastic (polyethylene): Perfect for acids, bases, and other corrosive chemicals. They offer excellent resistance to chemical corrosion and are lighter.
• Stainless steel: Used for aggressive chemicals or in demanding environments.

The retention capacity of a bin is crucial. It is generally calculated according to the regulations in force, which often require that the bin can hold at least 100% of the volume of the largest container it contains, or 10% of the total volume stored, whichever is greater.

Benefits and regulation

The use of retention bins offers several advantages, in addition to regulatory compliance:

• Safety: They protect employees from the risks of slipping or contact with dangerous chemicals.
• Environmental protection: They avoid soil and water pollution, a major environmental issue.
• Legal compliance: Many countries and regions have strict laws that require the use of retention bins for storage of hazardous products. Failure to meet these standards can result in heavy fines.

How to choose the right retention bin?

To choose the right retention tank, it is essential to take several criteria into account:

• Chemical compatibility: Make sure the material of the bin is compatible with the product you store. A steel tank is not suitable for a strong acid, and a plastic tank is not suitable for all hydrocarbons.
• Retention capacity: Check local regulations and choose a bin that exceeds the minimum requirements.
• Load supported: The bin must be able to support the weight of drums or containers.

In sum, investing in suitable retention bins is a wise choice for safety, environment and legal compliance. It is an essential prevention measure for any professional handling dangerous products.