Maintain Messes With Spill Containment Berm

By Lana Bray


Mishaps are bound to happen no matter how carefully materials may be handled. For those times when a mess needs to be controlled, a spill containment berm can offer an effective and efficient solution. They are available in a myriad of styles and types to deal with all types of substances.

A berm is essentially a wall or barrier that prevents flowing substances from passing beyond its boundaries. They may be made of different types of plastics, metals or even stone like materials. Some are designed to be permanent structures for places where spills are frequent, and others are made to be temporary and easily transportable.

Companies who handle hazardous chemicals, as well as those who deal with other materials that may be prone to spills, will generally have some of these barriers on site. When a particular substance is at risk of leaking, they may be stored within an enclosure of berms in order to keep the hazard contained until it can be attended. Barriers may also be constructed quickly for those unexpected occurrences.

Emergency response teams are well versed in how to use all the different forms of these barriers with the utmost efficiency. They will know exactly which style and design of wall to build depending on the kind of substance that needs to be controlled. Using the correct berm is important because various materials may have a chemical reaction with others if allowed to mix.

Because every situation is different and may have extenuating circumstances, there are a lot of different types of berms available. Large flows in open areas are often best served by the use of tall, triangular shaped barriers made of either concrete or plastic. The solid constructions are generally used for more long term issues such as road work or constant flooding while the lighter walls are usually reserved for short temporary duty.

Some indoor incidences might be better served by using short, thin barriers that are small and shaped like an L and are joined together to form enclosures with squared corners. Many drum storage sites choose to use these as preventative measures. They protect the surrounding area from any leaks that may occur while the materials are unattended.

When dealing with uneven ground or textured pavement, a specially designed barrier can be utilized. It is similar to a hose in that it is long and tubular and can be unrolled to fit whatever dimensions are required. When stored, this product is flat but once deployed it may be inflated and will conform itself to fit even the smallest dips and grooves of the land beneath it, effectively stopping the flowing substance from traveling any further.

For most any type of situation where a substance needs to be maintained within certain perimeters, there is a spill containment berm that should be well suited to the job. Whether hazardous chemicals, liquid or solids such as salt, grains or sand, selecting the right kind of barrier can ensure that the mess goes no further. These walls can be permanent or temporary, rigid or flexible, large or small depending on what is needed.




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