Reusing FIBC (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container) bulk bags is, in theory, an excellent idea. Not only does repeated use reduce the overall cost of ownership, but it also supports sustainability efforts, as many FIBC bulk bags are marketed as reusable. However, the question remains: is it safe to reuse these bags?
While cleaning might seem necessary to prevent cross-contamination, the primary factors determining safe reuse are the bag's certification level (Safety Factor) and its current condition after use. Is a standard FIBC bulk bag durable enough to withstand repeated use? The answer depends largely on these factors. Read on to explore these in greater detail.
Safety Factors: Certification Levels for Reusable Bulk Packaging Systems
Each FIBC bulk bag you purchase will have a Safety Factor (SF), typically 5:1, 6:1, or 8:1. This factor relates to the load the bag withstood during testing for certification, not its recommended operational capacity. Crucially, bags should never be loaded above their stated Safe Working Load (SWL) during actual use. The SF indicates how much stress the bag design withstood under test conditions.
- 5:1 Safety Factor: These bags are designed and certified for single-use applications only. The 5:1 SF indicates the bag design was tested to withstand a load of at least 5 times its Safe Working Load (SWL) without failure. Despite this test strength, they are not recommended or certified for reuse.
- 6:1 Safety Factor: These are designed as multi-trip bags and are suitable for reuse. The 6:1 SF indicates the bag design was tested to withstand a load of at least 6 times its SWL. This does not mean the bag can be reused a specific number of times (e.g., 6 times). The actual number of reuses depends entirely on the bag's condition after each trip. Before each reuse, the bag must be thoroughly inspected for any signs of damage (e.g., tears, abrasions, compromised stitching). Any damage means the bag cannot be safely reused. 6:1 SF bags must not be repaired. Additionally, they should only be refilled with the same product they originally contained to avoid contamination issues. Cleaning is not strictly required unless the specific application (like food grade) demands it, but thorough inspection is mandatory.
- 8:1 Safety Factor: Sometimes known as heavy-duty or repairable bags, these durable FIBCs are designed for extended multiple uses. The 8:1 SF indicates testing to at least 8 times the SWL. They are ideal for closed-loop supply chains where the same bag is reused for the same product. Like 6:1 bags, they require thorough inspection before each reuse and must only be refilled with the same product. Unlike 6:1 bags, 8:1 SF bags can be repaired, provided the repair meets specific requirements. Critically, if an 8:1 bag is repaired, it must still meet the original 8:1 testing criteria after the repair.
Meeting Standards: All FIBCs, regardless of SF, must meet the requirements of ISO 21898 and other relevant international standards to ensure safety and performance.
Inspection and Maintenance for Safety
Regular, thorough inspections for wear and tear, damage (cuts, tears, UV degradation, contamination), and structural integrity are essential before reusing any multi-trip (6:1 or 8:1 SF) FIBC bag. This is especially critical when dealing with food-grade products or hazardous materials. As mentioned, 8:1 SF bags require rigorous testing protocols, especially post-repair, to ensure they continue to meet the demanding ISO 21898 standards. General tests can include top lift testing, tear resistance, and stacking tests to validate the bag’s suitability for reuse.
The bag must also be certified for continued compliance with food grade certifications (e.g FSSC 22000, SQF, BRC etc) if it is used in the food or pharmaceutical sectors. The same applies for bags that are rated Type B to Type D for electrostatic protection.
Environmental Benefits and Value for Money
Let’s look at the question of return on investment and environmental benefits. In general, multiuse bags (6:1 and 8:1) provide significant cost savings and sustainability advantages by reducing the need to purchase and recycle single use alternatives each trip. When maximum reliability and reusability is needed, and for high stress applications, 8:1 safety bags usually provide the best long-term value, despite their higher upfront cost.
The exception is when bags are used to transport some classes of chemicals or hazardous materials – reuse may not be possible and the only practical option is to recycle or dispose of the bag. In this case, the best option is to purchase 5:1 single use bags.
End of Life Disposal and Recycling
When FIBC bags are no longer reusable, care should be taken to recycle or dispose of them responsibly. Many recycling services can reclaim the materials used in the bag, reducing environmental harm and supporting the circular economy.
Next Steps
If you’re interested in optimising your bulk material handling processes with the right reusable bulk packaging system, please get in touch with the experts at Cliffe Packaging today by giving us a call on 0845 481 1200 , or by clicking the link here.
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