A Complete Guide to Using Drip Trays to Improve Workplace Safety

In a workplace where hazardous liquids are stored, it can be all too easy to spot a leak after it’s too late. One unnoticed drip, a slow-forming leak and suddenly, a minor oversight turns into a major hazard.

Drip trays serve as an unassuming yet vital line of defence, containing leaks before they escalate. Found in industrial sites, laboratories, warehouses and construction sites, these pieces of equipment help businesses stay compliant, protect employees and maintain a safer working environment. There is more to learn about using them than you may realise. By following this guide on everything you need to know about drip trays, you can ensure a safer, more efficient workplace.

What is a Drip Tray?

A drip tray is a shallow container designed to collect drips, leaks and spills from equipment, machinery or other containers. They are used as secondary containment in industrial settings, laboratories, constructions and any workplace where liquid handling occurs.

According to the Health and Safety Executive, “drip trays are intended to prevent the spread of toxic or flammable substances to other plant areas or to sumps and drains where secondary effects resulting in a major accident could occur by domino effect.” By preventing the spread of unintended releases, drip trays help maintain a safe and clean working environment.

Why Drip Trays are Essential in the Workplace

Implementing drip trays in the workplace, first and foremost, reduces the risk of slip hazards, thereby enhancing employee safety. Drip trays also prevent hazardous substances from contaminating soil, water sources and sewage to aid in environmental conservation, as well as minimising the extent of clean up in the event of a leak or spill. This makes it much easier to adhere to workplace safety guidelines and prevents potential fines associated with environmental breaches.

What are the Different Types of Drip Trays?

Choosing the appropriate drip tray depends on factors such as the nature of the liquid you are handling, the volume of potential spills and specific workplace requirements. At Spill Shop, we stock three types of drip trays.

Standard Drip Trays

For a reliable solution to everyday spill containment, our standard plastic drip trays are an excellent choice thanks to their durable Polypropylene construction. Available in a wide range of sizes – from compact 1-litre trays to large 270-litre capacity units – these trays are built to withstand high impact while maintaining chemical resistance. Within this category, we sort them into two subgroups: small drip trays (ideal for minor spills in laboratories and light industrial settings) and large drip trays (designed for heavy-duty applications, perfect for maintenance workshops and industrial use).

Flexible Drip Trays

For those who need a more adaptable solution, our flexible drip trays provide unmatched versatility. Available in seven different sizes, these can catch leaks from smaller drums and containers and act as a work mat under vehicles, equipment or plants. Their biggest advantage, however, is their resilient design – you can stand on the sidewalls or even drive over them, and they’ll pop straight back up. When not in use, they can be folded away for easy storage, making them perfect for mobile service engineers and workshops.

Drip Pans

For maximum fluid containment, drip pans are an ideal solution. Made from class-A co-polymer polypropylene, these pans offer higher fluid capacity, high-impact resistance and excellent chemical compatibility. This makes them the go-to choice for professionals such as plumbers, mechanics and maintenance engineers who require efficient fluid containment in high-risk spill areas.

Find all our drip trays online, and contact us if you need help choosing the right one for your situation.

How Large Should Your Drip Tray Be?

The size of the drip tray should be adequate to contain the maximum possible spill from the source. A common guideline is to select a tray that can hold at least 110% of the volume of the largest container it will be used with, just to be on the right side of overflooding management.

How to Effectively Use a Drip Tray in a Spillage

As equipment goes, drip trays are as unembellished as they come. However, to maximise their effectiveness, they must still be used correctly and maintained properly. To ensure effective spill management, follow these best practices:

1. Position drip trays directly under potential leak points, such as valves, joints or dispensing areas.
2. Inspect drip trays frequently to ensure that they are not overfilled and are functioning correctly.
3. Remove collected liquids promptly to maintain the tray’s capacity for future spills.
4. Dispose of collected liquids in accordance with local hazardous waste disposal regulations.

How Often Should You Empty Your Drip Tray?

The frequency of emptying drip trays depends on the rate of accumulation. In high-use areas, daily checks may be necessary, while in lower-risk zones, weekly inspections could suffice. The key is to ensure that trays are emptied before they reach capacity to prevent overflow.

When Should You Replace Your Drip Tray?

Replace drip trays when they show signs of damage, such as cracks, corrosion or warping, which could compromise their ability to contain spills. Regular inspections will help identify when a tray is no longer fit for purpose.

How to Check Your Drip Tray for Faults

When conducting routine inspections, there are three areas you should check for:

• Structural Integrity: Look for cracks, holes or any deformities.
• Wear: Check for thinning material, although our plastic drip trays are very resistant to this.
• Cleanliness: Ensure that the trays are free from residues that could cause contamination or reduce capacity.

Choose SpillShop for Quality Spillage Control

At SpillShop, we are committed to providing top-tier spill containment and response solutions. Our extensive range of drip trays and related products are designed to meet the diverse needs of various industries. For guidance on cleaning and maintaining your spillage equipment or for assistance in selecting the right drip tray for you, turn to SpillShop. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist in enhancing your workplace safety and compliance.