The Science Of Closure Instructions

What was once a common-sense 55 gallon steel drum art has now become a scientific process that is very difficult to define and repeat. Closure Instructions are required to accompany all sales of hazardous materials packagings and DOT expects the closure process be followed with exacting detail. Though some manufacturers are loath to write a competent instruction, it is required by DOT for all fillers and transporters to have proper instructions. Since the steel drum is not a finely tooled product, the closure system — while capable of amazing security — can be influenced by elevation, temperature, humidity, compression and, of course, the “human element.” The in-field record of HazMat packaging failures in the US is very low, but, the lack of clarity and inaccurate procedures can yield an incomplete closure. In the case of steel drums, make sure that the Closure Instructions are accurately followed including the use of required tools. Specific to each manufacturer, view the current Skolnik instruction at: Closure Instructions.