Drum Handling Training

Manual handling of drums includes lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling and moving industrial drums of all sizes. Drum handling is part of the job in manufacturing and agricultural industries as well as in garages, workshops and in the distribution of paint, petroleum and chemical products. Drum handling training is necessary to reduce the risk of workplace injury. Identifying problems and moving to correct them is the primary goal of workplace safety training.

Conditions Leading to Drum Handling Injuries

• Strain injuries may occur when drums are improperly stored in restricted areas and must be subsequently moved. Drums that are difficult to grip or too heavy to move long distances are a problem for workers. Excessive pushing and pulling over slippery or uneven floors can lead to serious injury. Manual handling techniques, not augmented by mechanical aids for lifting and moving, can prove costly in terms of lost time due to worker injury.

Recognition and Correction.

• Mechanical lifting devices are required for safe drum handling.

  Training workers on safe handling, storage and movement of drums is essential. Any training should include recognizing dangerous practices and moving to correct potential problems. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) should be consulted so that proper precautions can be taken with drums containing hazardous or flammable materials. Workers must use gloves, steel-toed boots and safety goggles. Adequate lighting and sufficient space must be provided before drums are moved. Training on the proper use of mechanical lifting devices is essential.

Mechanical Devices For Drum Handling

• Many drum handlers are available to safely move steel, fiber and plastic drums. Drums can be placed on their sides on a drum racker to prevent roll and then on a pallet to be moved by forklift. Ergonomic drum handlers are available to securely hold drums for lifting and pouring. Half-full drums should be handled carefully as liquid within can move side-to-side making the drum unstable.

Moving Empty Drums

• Empty drums may be rolled using gloved hands but should be controlled all the way. A guard should always be posted to keep co-workers safely away from moving or rolling drums. Ramps make moving empty drums uphill or downhill a safer process. An empty drum should be lifted carefully using the legs and maintaining a straight back. Two workers per drum are always better than one.

Other Considerations

• Drum handling safety can be enhanced if suppliers are asked to provide smaller-sized drums. Revising bulk handling to eliminate the use of drums altogether is also worth considering. Safety cabinets are available for a variety of materials for proper drum storage. Drum storage cabinets for paint, acid, flammable liquids and pesticides are all available. Also available from various industrial safety suppliers are DVD's to train workers on all aspects of drum handler safety.