The safe transportation and storage of hazardous materials does not have to be either expensive or challenging. However, there are a few important things to be aware of when dealing with static electricity.
Why Is Static Safety Important?
Static electricity is one of the most common and deadly hazards in any working environment. Invisible, silent, and often inevitable, it refers to the build-up of charged particles within powders, chemicals, or even the surrounding environment. When a static charge is suddenly released, often due to contact, movement, or environmental changes, it can create a spark. In the presence of flammable gases, vapours, or dust particles, this spark can ignite and cause a major explosion.
The risks are significant, and accidents involving static discharge have resulted in serious injuries, loss of life, and costly damages. As such, the use of anti-static devices like Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs) is highly recommended for transporting and storing flammable and potentially explosive materials.
Which Type Of Anti-Static Bulk Bag Do You Need?
Under IEC 63140-4-4 standards, FIBCs are classified into four types: A, B, C, and D. Only Type C and Type D bags are suitable for flammable or explosive materials. Here’s how they differ:
- Type C Anti-Static Bulk Bags
These bags are made from non-conductive fabrics with interwoven conductive threads. When grounded, the conductive threads safely dissipate static electricity into the earth, preventing the build-up of potentially dangerous charges. However, for Type C FIBCs to function correctly, they must always be grounded during use. as improper grounding can negate their safety benefits. - Type D Anti-Static Bulk Bags
Type D FIBCs are made from special fabrics incorporating quasi-conductive yarns that dissipate static charges safely into the surrounding atmosphere. Unlike Type C, these bags do not require grounding, making them more convenient in environments where grounding isn't practical. Their low corona discharge rate ensures that static is neutralised without the risk of sparking.
Does Your Industry Need Anti-Static FIBCs?
While industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and mining are well-known for their use of anti-static FIBCs, many other sectors can benefit from them. Any “dusty” material can become explosive under the right conditions, even substances considered harmless. Examples include:
- Food products like flour, sugar, coffee, and rice.
- Agricultural materials such as fertilisers and animal feed.
- Fine powders used in manufacturing, such as titanium or aluminium powder.
The danger lies in the airborne dust particles, which can ignite and cause catastrophic fires or explosions. Anti-static bulk bags are an essential safety measure in such cases, regardless of the industry.
Are Anti-Static Bulk Bags Expensive?
Anti-static bulk bags use special manufacturing processes and require special materials. As such, they are more expensive than standard polyurethane bags. However, the cost of ignoring the static risk can be immense. The Dartford roastery inferno, the Bugbrooke Mills dust fire, the Bosley Mill explosion, and the Tildbury Port grain blast are just a few of the major incidents to take place in the UK in recent years, with the average cost of a warehouse fire being around £5.9 million. When compared to the cost of an anti-static bulk bag, the maths answers itself.
Find Out More
Ensure the safe handling of hazardous materials with Cliffe Packaging’s anti-static FIBCs. Our experts can guide you to the best solution for your specific needs. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and keep your operations safe.
