Opening Steel Drums-Safety Precautions
Steel drums, also known as tight head drums, are industrial storage containers made of metal that are commonly used to contain toxins, fuels, and other hazardous materials. While these containers are a common sight in industrial warehouses and transport trucks, they must be handled with care to avoid injury. If you will be opening steel drums, you should use the following safety precautions.
The first step is to make sure that the drum is the proper type and size and is approved for the product or material you are storing. After the correct drum is selected, you must check the drum’s condition before opening. Steel drums should be inspected for dents, rust, or other signs of wear. Any drum that has signs of damage should be discarded and replaced before opening.
Once the drum is selected and inspected, it is time to open the drum. Steel drums are typically sealed with a locking ring and a gasket. Before you attempt to open the drum, make sure that the locking ring is lubricated with an approved lubricant. Many of these containers are treated with special coatings to prevent rust and corrosion, so you must use a lubricant that is compatible with the material.
Once the locking ring is lubricated, you can begin the process of opening the drum. It is important to use the proper tools when opening. Steel drums are typically opened using a drum wrench, also known as a drum key. A standard wrench or pipe wrench can also be used if a drum key is not available.
The first step is to loosen the locking ring by turning it counterclockwise. This can be done by hand, but a wrench should be used to provide more leverage. Once the locking ring is loosened, the gasket should be inspected for signs of damage or wear. Any gaskets that are cracked or torn should be replaced before the drum is opened.
Once the gasket is replaced, the lid of the drum can be loosened by turning it counterclockwise. When the lid is almost completely off, it should be removed by hand. It is important to exercise caution when removing the lid to avoid any accidental spillage of the contents.
Once the drum is open, the contents should be inspected for any signs of contamination or deterioration before use. Most steel drums are equipped with a breather plug and a pressure relief valve. These should be checked for functionality and replace if necessary.
Before you close the drum, make sure the gasket is installed properly and that it is in good condition. The lid should then be tightened by turning it clockwise until it is secure. Finally, the locking ring should be tightened by turning it clockwise until it is secure.
Following the steps above and using the correct safety equipment can help you safely open and close a steel drum. However, it is always important to use caution when handling these containers as they can contain hazardous materials. If you have any questions about safe drum handling, you should consult a qualified professional for guidance.
