Steel Drum Storage Best Practices: Maximizing Safety, Lifespan, and Compliance

 Why Proper Steel Drum Storage Matters

Steel drums are trusted across industries for their strength, reusability, and ability to safely store a wide variety of materials. But without proper steel drum storage practices, even the most durable containers can degrade prematurely, leak, or create safety hazards.

Whether you're handling chemicals, oils, food-grade materials, or hazardous waste, following the right storage protocols helps ensure safety, compliance, and long-term cost savings.

At Dallas Steel Drums, we not only supply high-quality drums, we also help customers store and manage them correctly.

Top Steel Drum Storage Best Practices

1. Store Drums Upright (Bung-Up Position)

Always store closed head drums upright, with the bungs on top. This prevents:

• Leaks from pressure buildup

• Corrosion around the seams or lid

• Accidental spillage during handling

2. Use Pallets or Racks—Never Store Directly on the Floor

Placing drums directly on concrete surfaces exposes them to moisture and temperature shifts, which can lead to rust and structural damage.

• Use wooden or plastic pallets, or steel drum racks

• Ensure adequate air flow beneath each drum

3. Cover Drums to Prevent UV and Weather Exposure

Outdoor drum storage is common, but drums should always be covered with a tarp, canopy, or weatherproof shelter. Prolonged UV exposure and rain can:

• Fade drum markings

• Degrade internal linings

• Accelerate corrosion

4. Separate Incompatible Materials

Storing incompatible chemicals too close together increases the risk of dangerous reactions in the event of a leak or fire. Follow EPA and OSHA guidelines for segregation:

• Flammables away from oxidizers

• Acids separate from bases

• Always store by chemical class and label clearly

5. Rotate Inventory Using FIFO (First-In, First-Out)

To avoid using outdated or weakened containers:

• Track storage dates

• Use older drums first

• Regularly inspect and recondition stored invent

Steel Drum Storage for Hazardous Materials

For drums containing hazardous substances, additional measures must be taken:

• Use secondary containment like spill pallets or berms

• Ensure drum labels and UN markings remain visible and legible

• Keep updated SDS sheets (Safety Data Sheets) accessible nearby

• Maintain minimum clearances from heat sources and ignition points

Complying with these guidelines not only protects your workforce—it also shields your company from fines and violations.

Signs It's Time to Recondition or Replace a Drum

Even well-stored steel drums have a lifespan. Inspect drums regularly for:

• Rust, dents, or weakened seams

• Faded UN or DOT markings

• Warping from internal pressure

• Bung damage or lid distortion

At Dallas Steel Drums, we offer both reconditioning services and new drum replacements to keep your operation running safely and efficiently.

Dallas Steel Drums: Your Partner in Safe Drum Storage

We go beyond just supplying drums—we help you store them the right way. Whether you need closed head drums for chemical storage or open head drums for industrial solids, we provide:

• Durable steel drums built for long-term storage

• UN/DOT-compliant labeling and documentation

• Expert advice on safe handling and layout

Need weatherproofing tips? Looking to expand your on-site storage capabilities? Our team can help you design a safe, scalable steel drum storage strategy.

Conclusion: Store Smarter, Not Just Safer

Proper steel drum storage isn't just a maintenance task—it's a critical component of workplace safety, product integrity, and regulatory compliance. From indoor rack systems to outdoor containment setups, the right practices can significantly extend the lifespan of your containers and the safety of your operation.

👉 Contact Dallas Steel Drums today to learn how we can support your business with expert guidance and compliant, cost-effective storage solutions.