SpillControl

Under UK guidance (and the Control of Pollution Regulations), a bund should hold at least 110% of the largest single container stored within it, or 25% of total stored volume if you're storing multiple containers — whichever is greater. For an IBC that means a bund rated for at least 1,100 litres. If you store several drums or IBCs together, check the sump capacity against the higher of these two figures rather than just sizing for one container.

A spill pallet is typically designed to sit two or four drums on, with a built-in sump beneath a raised grid to catch leaks or overfills. An IBC bund is purpose-built to house a single IBC (usually 1,000 litres) with a sump sized to meet the 110% rule for that container. If you're storing IBCs rather than drums, always go for a dedicated IBC bund rather than adapting a drum pallet.

Polyethylene bunds are lightweight, corrosion-proof and well suited to most oils, chemicals and general liquids — they're also easier to move and clean. Galvanised steel bunds offer greater load-bearing strength and are often preferred for forklift traffic, heavier drums, or where fire resistance and durability in demanding industrial settings matter more than weight. Check chemical compatibility with whatever you're storing before deciding, as some substances react differently with each material.

Yes — sumps should be checked regularly for any accumulated spillage, rainwater (if stored outdoors) or debris, and emptied via the drain plug where fitted. Inspect the grid, walls and drain fittings periodically for cracks, UV degradation or corrosion, particularly with polyethylene units left outside long-term. Keeping a simple inspection log helps demonstrate compliance if you're ever audited by the Environment Agency.

Most polyethylene and galvanised bunds are suitable for outdoor use, but an open sump will collect rainwater, reducing the spare capacity available for an actual spill. Fitting a lid, cover or roof over the bund keeps rainwater out and preserves full containment capacity, and it also protects stored drums or IBCs from UV degradation. If a cover isn't practical, factor rainwater ingress into your capacity calculations and drain the sump regularly.

Drum racks let you store drums horizontally in tiers, making far better use of floor space than standard pallets while keeping bunged ends accessible for dispensing. They're particularly useful where you're storing larger numbers of drums and need efficient stock rotation. Look for racks with an integral bunded sump base so you're not relying on a separate containment tray underneath.