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Hazardous materials must be stored safely, especially during transportation in South Africa. If not handled properly, these materials – which range from chemicals and volatile liquids to corrosives and medical waste – can pose serious threats to people and the environment.

Improper packaging or handling procedures during storage or transit can result in costly mishaps. Ensuring regulatory compliance and placing a high priority on worker safety are not simply requirements for companies that handle hazardous materials; they are also fundamental to running a trustworthy and accountable business.

These companies need high-quality packaging solutions that are safe and versatile. Bulk bags, also referred to as flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) are an ideal resource. These adaptable containers provide a safe and economical means of transporting and storing a variety of hazardous materials. 

Custom Bulk Bags is a leading manufacturer and supplier of flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) in South Africa. We produce up to 3.5 million bulk bags per year and our products can safely hold between 500kg and two tonnes of material per bag. We offer several UN-certified designs and attachments, making our products fully customisable to meet your unique needs.

Why the right bulk bag dimensions are critical

The value of UN-certified bulk bags for hazardous materials

Ordinary bulk bags are not appropriate for handling dangerous products. UN-certified designs are essential for maximum safety and legal compliance. Bulk bags with UN certification are a guarantee of adherence to the strict international packaging regulations for hazardous chemicals. 

The United Nations has established these requirements to ensure that these bulk bags are capable of withstanding the particular risks related to the goods they contain. UN certification ensures that your bulk bags comply with global safety standards for the storage and transportation of hazardous chemicals. This also guarantees adherence to South African legislation and prevents possible legal consequences or delays at the customs office.

UN-certified bulk bags are put through a thorough testing process to make sure they are compatible with certain hazardous products, leakproof, and resistant to punctures. By adding an extra layer of security, the risks of spills and accidents during transportation and handling are reduced.

Transporting wet products in bulk bags

Best practices for storing hazardous materials

For maximum safety, even with UN-certified bulk bags, you should follow these storage guidelines:

  1. Labelling and segregation – Label each bulk bag clearly and accurately, indicating its contents and any special handling instructions. Always separate hazardous products that are incompatible. Custom Bulk Bags can print custom labels on your FIBCs.
  2. Secondary containment – To handle any possible leaks or spills, put in place a secondary containment system, such as a spill bund, around the storage space.
  3. Appropriate training – Educate your staff on how to handle hazardous chemicals safely, including how to lift large bags properly and what actions to take in emergencies.
  4. Frequent inspections – Check your bulk bags and storage spaces often for any signs of damage or leaks and make sure all rules are being followed.

Why choose bulk bags over other packaging solutions?

Bulk bags have many benefits over other packaging solutions when used properly. Firstly, they are fully customisable; from design and dimensions to optional extras and add-ons, these packaging products can be made to meet your exact needs. 

They are highly versatile and can be used to store and transport different hazardous compounds, whether liquid or solid. In addition, bulk bags are more cost-effective than rigid containers and steel drums. They are reusable, stackable, and lightweight, which means they require less space for storage and help to lower shipping expenses.

For companies that are concerned about their bottom line but still need reliable and effective packaging solutions, FIBCs are the best option in most instances. It’s important to find a reliable bulk bag manufacturer that can provide UN-certified products for hazardous chemicals. We provide a range of high-quality UN-certified bulk bags that have been put through rigorous testing to meet the highest international requirements. 

Our team of experts can also help you choose the best bulk bag solutions and designs for your needs. This will guarantee safety, effectiveness, and regulatory compliance for your company. When handling hazardous products, don’t skimp on safety and compliance. For more information about our bulk bags or to get advice on the ideal designs, please contact us today.

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Custom Bulk Bags is a leading South African manufacturer of woven polypropylene bags for various industries, such as mining, chemicals and food. We are able to produce over 3.5-million bulk bags per year, keeping our customers in stock at all times. Our bags adhere to the highest levels of quality as a result of our stringent in-house testing and quality control programmes.

Custom Bulk Bags holds ISO 9001 certification and we currently have a number of UN-certified designs. We are a Level 2 B-BBEE manufacturer and supplier and fall under the ownership structure of Deneb Investments Limited. For more information on our products, contact sales@custombulkbags.co.za. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram for our latest news and industry insights.