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The Complete Guide To IBC Spill Pallets

Everything you need to know about choosing, using and maintaining IBC spill pallets for safe liquid storage.

IBC spill pallets provide secondary containment for intermediate bulk containers, helping businesses safely store oils, chemicals and other potentially polluting liquids.

Choosing the right IBC spill pallet is important for workplace safety, environmental protection and compliance. This guide explains what IBC spill pallets are, when they are needed, how sump capacity works and the key differences between single, double, covered and forkliftable options.

Looking for an IBC spill pallet? Browse our full range of IBC Spill Pallets, including single, double, covered, forkliftable and recycled models.

What Is An IBC Spill Pallet?

An IBC spill pallet is a secondary containment unit designed to hold an intermediate bulk container and capture leaks, spills or drips from the container.

Most IBC spill pallets feature an integrated sump beneath a removable grid. If the IBC leaks, liquid is contained within the sump rather than spreading across the floor or entering drains.

IBC spill pallets are commonly used in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, chemical stores, workshops, transport depots and industrial sites where bulk liquids are stored or handled.

Why Are IBC Spill Pallets Important?

Storing liquids in IBCs creates a significant spill risk because each container can hold up to 1,000 litres. If a leak or failure occurs, the environmental and operational impact can be serious.

IBC spill pallets help businesses:

Contain leaks and spills from IBCs
Reduce the risk of environmental contamination
Protect drains, floors and working areas
Improve liquid storage safety
Support compliance with environmental and oil storage requirements

They are a practical and widely used solution for managing the risks associated with bulk liquid storage.

What Sump Capacity Do I Need?

Sump capacity is one of the most important factors when choosing an IBC spill pallet.

As a general principle, secondary containment should be able to hold at least 110% of the largest container stored. For a standard 1,000 litre IBC, this usually means selecting a spill pallet with a sump capacity of at least 1,100 litres.

For multiple IBCs, the sump should be suitable for the containers being stored and the level of risk involved. Always check the stated sump capacity before purchasing.

Single IBC Spill Pallets

Single IBC spill pallets are designed to store one intermediate bulk container and provide secondary containment beneath the unit.

They are ideal for sites storing smaller quantities of bulk liquid or where IBCs are positioned in separate locations across the site.

Typical applications include:

Workshops and maintenance areas
Chemical storage points
Manufacturing facilities
Sites with limited storage space

Double IBC Spill Pallets

Double IBC spill pallets are designed to store two IBCs on one containment unit.

They are suitable for businesses handling larger volumes of liquids or storing multiple products in the same area.

Double IBC spill pallets help improve storage efficiency by providing containment for two containers within one footprint.

Covered IBC Spill Pallets

Covered IBC spill pallets provide additional protection for IBCs stored outdoors or in exposed areas.

The cover helps protect the container from rainwater, debris and weather exposure, reducing the risk of the sump filling with uncontaminated rainwater and helping to keep stored liquids more secure.

Covered units are particularly useful for:

Outdoor liquid storage areas
Sites without dedicated covered storage
Higher-value or sensitive liquids
Locations where rainwater ingress could create compliance issues

Forkliftable IBC Spill Pallets

Forkliftable IBC spill pallets are designed with forklift access to help improve handling and positioning when the unit is empty.

They are useful where IBCs need to be moved into place across warehouses, yards or production areas. Always check manufacturer guidance before moving a spill pallet, especially once an IBC has been loaded onto it.

Recycled IBC Spill Pallets

Recycled IBC spill pallets are manufactured using recycled polyethylene, offering a more environmentally responsible option for secondary containment.

They provide the same practical function as standard spill pallets, helping to contain leaks and spills while supporting more sustainable purchasing decisions.

Common Mistakes When Choosing An IBC Spill Pallet

Selecting Insufficient Sump Capacity

One of the most common mistakes is choosing a spill pallet with inadequate containment capacity. Always check the sump capacity against the volume of liquid being stored and any site-specific requirements.

Using Outdoor Pallets Without Weather Protection

When storing IBCs outdoors, rainwater can accumulate within the containment sump. Covered spill pallets can help reduce this issue and simplify ongoing maintenance.

Choosing The Wrong Material

Polyethylene spill pallets offer excellent resistance to many oils and chemicals, making them suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. Always verify chemical compatibility before use.

Not Allowing For Future Expansion

Businesses often purchase containment based on current requirements. Considering future growth and additional liquid storage requirements can help avoid unnecessary replacement costs later.

IBC Spill Pallets By Industry

Manufacturing

Manufacturing facilities commonly use IBC spill pallets to store lubricants, process chemicals, cleaning products and raw materials safely.

Chemical Storage

Chemical manufacturers and distributors often require robust secondary containment to help manage environmental risks associated with bulk liquid storage.

Transport & Logistics

Distribution centres and logistics operators frequently store fuels, oils and other liquids in IBCs, making spill containment an important part of site safety procedures.

Engineering & Maintenance

Engineering workshops and maintenance facilities often use IBC spill pallets for storing oils, coolants and cleaning fluids.

Waste Management & Environmental Services

Many waste handling and environmental service providers use IBC spill pallets when storing recovered liquids, oils and treatment chemicals.

IBC Spill Pallet FAQs

Do I need an IBC spill pallet?

If you store oils, fuels, chemicals or other potentially polluting liquids in IBCs, secondary containment is generally considered best practice and may be required under site-specific environmental procedures.

What size IBC spill pallet do I need?

The correct size depends on the number of IBCs being stored and the required sump capacity. Single and double IBC spill pallets are the most common options.

Can I store IBCs outdoors?

Yes. However, covered IBC spill pallets are often recommended to prevent rainwater entering the containment sump and to provide additional protection for stored liquids.

What is a sump capacity?

Sump capacity is the volume of liquid that the spill pallet can contain in the event of a leak or spill.

Are recycled IBC spill pallets as effective as standard models?

Yes. Recycled IBC spill pallets provide the same containment function while offering a more sustainable solution for many applications.

Can I move an IBC spill pallet with a forklift?

Some models include forklift access for positioning when empty. Always follow the manufacturer's guidance regarding movement and use.

Related IBC Spill Pallet Products

Need Help Choosing The Right IBC Spill Pallet?

Spill Containment UK supplies a wide range of single, double, covered, forkliftable and recycled IBC spill pallets suitable for industrial and commercial environments.

If you are unsure which IBC spill pallet is most suitable for your application, our team can provide practical advice and guidance to help you select the right solution.

Contact us today for help choosing the right IBC spill pallet for your workplace.

Last updated: June 2026