How to Choose the Right Spill Containment System (Pallets vs Berms vs IBC Containment)
How to Choose the Right Spill Containment System (Pallets vs Berms vs IBC Containment)
Spill containment systems are essential for facilities that store oil, fuel, chemicals, or other hazardous liquids. Choosing the right system helps reduce cleanup costs, protect your site, and support secondary containment best practices. But not all containment solutions are the same.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the differences between spill containment pallets, spill berms, and IBC containment systems so you can select the right solution for your application.
What Is a Spill Containment System?
A spill containment system is designed to capture leaks and spills from containers before they reach the floor, soil, or drainage systems. Many industrial facilities use containment systems to help meet environmental regulations such as EPA secondary containment requirements (including 40 CFR 264.175).
The correct system depends on the type of container you are storing, whether the application is indoor or outdoor, and whether containment is permanent or temporary.
Spill Containment Pallets (Best for 55-Gallon Drums)
Spill containment pallets are rigid platforms with built-in sumps designed to hold 55-gallon drums or similar containers. They are the most common solution for drum storage areas.
Spill pallets are ideal when:
- You are storing one or multiple 55-gallon drums
- You need a dedicated, permanent containment area
- You require forklift access and structured loading capacity
- You want a compact footprint with built-in sump capacity
Browse our spill containment pallets and drum containment systems for single-drum, two-drum, and hard-top outdoor containment options.
Spill Berms (Best for Equipment & Temporary Containment)
Spill berms are flexible containment systems that can be deployed quickly for temporary or large-footprint applications. Unlike rigid pallets, berms can contain vehicles, equipment, tanks, and irregular setups.
Spill berms are ideal when:
- You need portable containment
- You are containing vehicles or equipment
- You require a larger footprint
- You are working on a temporary jobsite
Explore our spill berm systems for flexible, deployable containment solutions.
IBC Containment (Best for Totes & Bulk Storage)
IBC containment systems are designed specifically for intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) and totes. These larger-capacity units provide secondary containment for high-volume liquid storage.
IBC containment is ideal when:
- You are storing bulk liquids in totes
- You need higher sump capacity
- You operate in manufacturing or chemical storage environments
- You require industrial-grade long-term containment
View our IBC containment systems for solutions built for bulk liquid storage.
Outdoor vs Indoor Spill Containment
For outdoor applications, consider hard-top containment units that protect drums from rain exposure. For indoor storage areas, standard spill pallets are often sufficient. Temporary outdoor sites may benefit from spill berm systems for easier deployment.
How to Select the Right Spill Containment Solution
Start by identifying:
- Container type (drum, tote, equipment)
- Number of containers
- Indoor or outdoor placement
- Required sump capacity
- Permanent or temporary installation
If you’re unsure which containment system fits your application, our team can help guide you to the right solution based on your site requirements.
Shop Spill Containment Solutions
Choosing the correct spill containment system protects your operation, improves safety, and helps reduce environmental risk. Browse our collections above or contact us for assistance selecting the right solution.