Secondary spill containment is a system placed around or beneath a primary container to capture leaks, drips, or releases. Examples include spill pallets, spill decks, berms, hard-wall containment, and IBC containment units.

Start with the container type, maximum potential release, liquid compatibility, available floor space, loading method, and whether the system must be portable, forkliftable, weather resistant, or drive-through. The best product should fit both the spill risk and the way the area is used.

A spill pallet typically provides a deeper sump and is commonly used beneath one or more drums or containers. A spill deck is lower-profile and can be used individually or connected to create a larger modular containment surface with easier loading access.

Drum containment options may include single-drum and multi-drum spill pallets, low-profile spill decks, covered hard-top units, and containment systems designed for drum racks, pumps, funnels, and dispensing operations.

Flexible containment is useful for temporary work, field service, emergency response, equipment washing, decontamination, fueling, and vehicle or machinery containment. Many flexible berms can be folded, transported, and deployed where permanent containment is not practical.

Some flexible containment systems are designed with collapsible, foam-supported, or otherwise accessible sidewalls that allow vehicles and equipment to enter and exit. The correct berm depends on wheel traffic, equipment weight, ground conditions, and the desired containment volume.

Hard-wall containment is suited for larger, longer-term, or semi-permanent containment areas around tanks, machinery, bulk storage, vehicles, and equipment. Modular wall sections can create different layouts, while a liner forms the liquid barrier inside the protected area.

Some modular systems can be configured on concrete, asphalt, gravel, soil, and other surfaces, but the installation must account for slope, sharp objects, liner protection, drainage, and wall stability. Site conditions should be reviewed before selection.

IBC spill containment is a high-capacity secondary containment system designed for intermediate bulk containers and totes. Options may include single-IBC and multi-IBC pallets, removable grating, forklift access, and covered units for outdoor storage.

Many IBC containment products include forklift pockets or molded access points. Movement instructions depend on the product and whether it is empty or loaded, so the manufacturer’s handling guidance should always be followed.

Required capacity depends on the size and number of containers, the potential release, applicable facility procedures, and regulatory requirements. Confirm the needed sump volume before choosing a pallet, berm, or larger containment area.

The containment material must be suitable for the liquid it may contact. Chemicals can affect polyethylene, PVC, coated fabrics, liners, seals, and other materials differently. Review compatibility information before placing any product into service.

Many containment products can be used outdoors, but weather, ultraviolet exposure, rainwater accumulation, wind, temperature, covers, anchoring, and inspection frequency should be considered. Covered or hard-top products may be preferable for outdoor drum or IBC storage.

Outdoor containment should be inspected regularly so rainwater does not reduce available sump capacity. Any liquid removed from the containment area should be evaluated and managed according to the material present and the facility’s environmental procedures.

Inspection frequency should reflect the product, stored liquid, operating environment, and facility procedures. Check for captured liquid, damage, cracks, punctures, liner wear, blocked drains, degraded grating, and reduced containment capacity.

Provide the container type and quantity, liquid being stored, required containment volume, indoor or outdoor location, available space, loading method, forklift or vehicle access, portability needs, and any photos or measurements of the area.