How Many Drum Spill Pallets Do I Need

Time:8/5/2025

When storing or handling hazardous liquids in drums, one of the most critical safety considerations is proper spill containment. Drum spill pallets play a key role in preventing leaks, protecting the environment, and ensuring regulatory compliance. But how many do you actually need? This guide walks you through the key factors to consider when determining the right number of drum spill pallets for your facility.

Why Spill Pallets Matter

Spill pallets—also known as containment pallets—are specially designed platforms that can hold one or more drums while containing leaks or spills. They are essential for facilities that handle chemicals, oils, or hazardous substances, as even a minor spill can pose serious safety and environmental risks. Choosing the right number of spill pallets is not just about efficiency—it’s about safety, compliance, and cost control.

Factors That Influence Your Spill Pallet Needs

Several important variables will determine how many drum spill pallets you require:

1. Drum Quantity and Size

The most obvious factor is the number of drums you’re storing. Are you dealing with 55-gallon drums? Smaller containers? The more drums you have, the more containment capacity you'll need.

2. Spill Containment Capacity Requirements

Spill pallets are rated by the amount of liquid they can contain—typically measured in gallons. Regulations (especially in the U.S.) often require secondary containment to hold at least 10% of the total volume or the volume of the largest container, whichever is greater.

3. Facility Layout and Storage Configuration

Do you have limited floor space? Will pallets be stored indoors or outdoors? Can you stack drums vertically? A well-planned layout can reduce the number of pallets needed without sacrificing safety.

4. Handling and Accessibility

If your team frequently moves drums, consider roll-top or forklift-accessible spill pallets. This could influence how many pallets you need to keep operations running smoothly.

Calculating Spill Pallet Requirements: A Simple Example

Let’s say your facility stores 12 standard 55-gallon drums. If you're using 4-drum spill pallets, you’d need 3 pallets to accommodate all drums. However, you must also ensure each pallet provides enough spill containment volume—usually around 66 gallons per pallet, depending on the model.

So, your total secondary containment capacity must be:

Either 10% of 660 gallons (66 gallons) = 66 gallons

Or one full 55-gallon drum = 55 gallons

Conclusion: As long as each pallet meets or exceeds 66 gallons, you're compliant.

Regulations You Should Know

Depending on your region, spill containment may be governed by:

EPA Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Rules

OSHA Hazardous Materials Handling Standards

Local fire or environmental regulations

Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, environmental damage, or even shutdowns.

Tips to Make the Right Choice

Audit your current drum inventory regularly

Consider future growth—buy a few extra pallets for expansion

Consult with your supplier for pallet recommendations based on your liquids and space

Don’t forget accessories like drum funnels, covers, and ramp systems

Real-World Scenario

A medium-sized facility handling lubricants stores 20 drums on-site. By choosing five 4-drum spill pallets with a capacity of 75 gallons each, they not only met EPA containment standards but also streamlined handling and reduced floor congestion.

Final Thoughts

So, how many drum spill pallets do you need? The answer depends on your drum count, containment requirements, layout, and handling process. By assessing these factors and planning ahead, you can ensure safe, compliant, and efficient drum storage.

If you need help selecting the right spill pallet system, contact our team—we’re here to help you find the best solution for your facility.

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