Hazmat in the Trenches: Drum Overpacking

Drum handling is a common emergency in the hazmat response world. It is one in which our skills can be tested because of the sheer weight of full drums and because it can be awkward. Drums, being round and weighing upwards of 700 hundred pounds, challenge responders and also because problems with drums frequently occur in tight spots such as in the back of a van trailer or in a crowded warehouse.

Handling drums also present physical problems of pinched fingers and toes and even the higher risk of back injuries. Consequently, some teams have found ingenious ways to work smarter and not harder when it comes to handling heavy drums.

The typical method of handling drums is simply called the "bull work" method where responders use their backs and brawn to handle the drum and move it where they want it to go. Injuries that have occurred with this method include strained backs and shoulders. The drum may also pay the price when gravity takes hold and the drum cannot be controlled by responders when lowering it to the ground. (see photo 1)