Drums are handled many times between delivery and disposal. Good habits protect your team, your product and the packaging.
Move drums correctly
Use trolleys, drum handlers or pallet trucks for filled drums. Avoid rolling heavy drums on their edges.
Open closures carefully
Release lever-lock rings fully before lifting lids, and keep fingers clear of moving parts.
Empty cleanly
Use scoops or discharge equipment that will not puncture liners. Keep partially used drums closed.
Reseal and label
Close lids fully after partial use and label opened drums with the date.
Training your team
Simple training prevents most handling problems. Show operators how to move drums with the right equipment, how to open and close each closure type and how to empty drums without puncturing liners. Explain why partly used drums must be resealed and labelled. Short refresher sessions and clear posters near work areas keep good habits in place.
Practical checklist
- Train staff on drum handling equipment
- Demonstrate each closure type
- Explain liner care during emptying
- Display simple handling posters
- Refresh training regularly
Key takeaways
- Use proper equipment to move drums
- Open and close closures carefully
- Reseal and label opened drums
Frequently asked questions
Can fibre drums be rolled?
Avoid rolling filled drums on their edges; use handling equipment instead.
How should partly used drums be stored?
Closed, labelled with the opening date and kept in dry conditions.
What equipment helps with drum handling?
Drum trolleys, drum lifters, pallet trucks and suitable scoops or discharge equipment make moving and emptying drums safer and more efficient.
Need help choosing?
OM Packaging has manufactured fibre drums and paper cores in Sonipat, Haryana since 1999. See modern round fibre drum, or get a quote and our team will recommend the right specification.
