Regular cleaning is a critical component of spillage control and should be part of your routine maintenance schedule. As much as they should be integrity tested, IBC bunds should also be cleaned regularly, as a build-up of hazardous liquids can lead to cross-contamination and a less effective bund.

In this guide, we outline why cleaning IBC bunds is important, how to approach the task safely and how SpillShop can support your spillage control needs. After reading this guide, you’ll be ready to maintain the cleanliness and integrity of Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) bunds, ensuring the safety of your workplace and the longevity of your equipment.

Safety Precautions Before Cleaning

Before starting the cleaning process, it’s crucial to follow these safety guidelines:

Wear Appropriate PPE: Use gloves, goggles and chemical-resistant clothing.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: If working indoors, make sure the area is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes.
Check the Tank’s Contents: Be aware of the substances previously stored in the IBC tank and bund to choose appropriate cleaning agents.
Dispose of Residual Waste Safely: Make sure any waste generated during cleaning is disposed of according to local regulations.

How to Clean an IBC Bund

Remove the IBC Tank

Start by carefully removing the IBC tank from the bund to allow full access to the bund for a thorough cleaning. Use appropriate lifting equipment – a forklift or pallet jack will safely manoeuvre the tank without causing damage to the bund or surrounding area. Place the tank in a secure location to prevent tipping or leaks during the cleaning process.

Empty the Bund

Next is an essential step to preventing cross-contamination during the cleaning process. Inspect the bund for any residual liquids and dispose of any that may still be there. Use a dedicated spill-recovering pump or absorbent materials designed for chemical containment to collect the liquid. Remove these substances according to hazardous waste disposal regulations.

Apply a Cleaning Agent

Choose a cleaning agent suitable for the type of residue present in the bund. For example, use a degreaser for oily substances or a pH-neutral cleaner for general grime. Industrial-grade cleaning solutions provided by reputable suppliers can be particularly effective. At Spill Shop, our range of degreasers is exactly that: highly effective, environmentally-friendly solutions that are ideal for all types of cleaning and degreasing by hand or machine.

Apply the cleaning agent evenly across all the bund’s surface, and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for dilution ratios and application techniques to make the most of the cleaning agent’s power.

Scrub and Rinse

Use a stiff-bristled brush or industrial cleaning tool, to scrub the bund’s interior to remove stubborn stains and grime. Focus on areas in corners and seams, as these places are where contaminants often accumulate. Once finished, rinse the bund thoroughly with clean water, using a high-pressure washer for best results.

Dry the Bund

Allow the bund to dry completely before reintroducing the IBC tank. Use industrial drying equipment if necessary, particularly in cold or damp environments. Ensure no residual moisture remains, as this could lead to corrosion or the bund being less able to contain future spills.

Inspect for Damage

Finally, before putting the bund back in rotation, it’s worth giving it a final inspection for damage, as small defects can escalate into significant issues if not addressed promptly. Look around for any signs of wear, cracks or structural damage, and replace or repair damaged bunds if necessary.

For more information on inspecting your IBC bunds, read our step-by-step guide to IBC bunds integrity testing.

If you require a replacement, browse our range of IBC Bunds, which come in a variety of sizes and designs.

IBC Bund Cleaning Checklist

If you need a quick reminder on the steps and equipment you need to take to clean your IBC bund properly, below is a brief overview of the process.

Here is what you need to clean an IBC bund:

Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Cleaning agents appropriate for the stored substances
Long-handled brushes or scrubbers
Rinsing equipment (e.g., hoses or pressure washers)
Absorbent materials or pumps for liquid removal

Here are the steps to performing a quality IBC bund clean:

Remove the IBC Tank: Carefully remove the IBC tank from the bund to access all surfaces. Check for any signs of leaks or damage during this process.
Empty the Bund: To rid the bund of any standing liquids or debris, use a pump or absorbent materials to clean them out.
Apply a Cleaning Agent: Choose a cleaning agent suitable for the substances previously contained. For hazardous chemicals, use neutralising agents where applicable.
Scrub and Rinse: Using a long-handled brush, scrub the interior and exterior surfaces of the bund. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove all residues.
Dry the Bund: Allow the bund to air dry completely, or use industrial drying equipment to prepare it for reuse.
Inspect for Damage: Once clean and dry, inspect the bund for cracks, corrosion or any other signs of wear that could compromise its integrity.

Why Clean Your IBC Bunds?

IBC bunds are designed to contain spills and leaks from IBC tanks, but their effectiveness depends on proper maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents the build-up of hazardous substances and reduces contamination risks. Neglecting this task can compromise the bund’s ability to contain spills, posing risks to employees, facilities and the environment.

When Cleaning Isn’t Enough

If regular cleaning fails to restore your IBC bund to a functional state, it may be time to consider replacement or repair. Compromised bunds cannot guarantee spill containment, putting your workplace at risk. Regular integrity testing and timely repairs are essential to maintaining safety and compliance.

Choose SpillShop for Quality Spillage Control

SpillShop is the UK’s leading provider of spill containment and response solutions, and we understand the importance of maintaining functional IBC bunds for safe and compliant operations. For guidance on cleaning and maintaining your IBC bund or for assistance in selecting the right spill control equipment, turn to SpillShop. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive spill management solutions and how we can help keep your workplace safe and prepared for any situation.

Our Guide to Cleaning IBC Bunds: Everything You Need To Know