The Difference Between a “Containment System” and a “Secondary Containment System” (And Why You Need Both)
What’s the difference between a Containment System and Secondary Containment?
If you have hazardous waste on your property, you must also have a system for safely containing that waste if it leaks or spills. Containment systems and secondary containment systems are both designed to protect people, property, and the environment from exposure to toxic spills. They both play important roles in transporting, treating, storing, and disposing of hazardous materials. However, they are regulated differently by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) because they serve unique purposes.
The Resource Conservation & Recovery Act (RCRA), which granted the EPA this authority in 1976, lays out the current requirements for hazardous substances. If you work with waste or toxic chemicals in any capacity, you must use equipment that meets these strict federal safety regulations. That includes a containment system that falls under the right category and handles your specific substances correctly.
Containment Systems
According to the RCRA guidelines for containing hazardous materials, containment systems are designed and used to manage hazardous waste in portable containers.
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Examples of Containment Systems
Containment systems come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, just like the containers they support. You may use one of the following containment systems in conjunction with your portable containers:
- Pallets
- Decks
- Wood grids
- Grated basins
Requirements
Containment systems must be able to hold a certain amount of liquid, but capacity requirements depend on the containers that each system supports. Your containment system must be able to hold one of the following (whichever is greater):
- 10% of the total volume of all containers
- 100% of the biggest container’s volume
These systems should also prevent the accumulation of spilled liquids. They often have grated or ventilated surfaces that allow liquids to drip down into a basin, but if not, they must be sloped or elevated to prevent pooling. If your containment system includes a drainage valve, you must meet additional EPA regulations for safe drainage.
Secondary Containment Systems
The EPA has a separate definition for secondary containment systems, which are sometimes called “spill containment systems” by vendors and businesses. According to the RCRA, secondary containment systems are supplements to stationary tanks, and must be used in conjunction with any tanks that contain hazardous materials.
Examples of Secondary Containment Systems
Secondary containment systems range from underground systems that manage waste near highways to simple systems under aquariums and water heaters. Some common secondary containment systems for industrial purposes include:
- Drip trays — heavy duty containers that collect small leaks to prevent fire and toxic leaks; usually made of steel or plastic
- Bunds — brick, mortar or concrete walls around tanks and drums; some have insulation to increase their boiling points
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