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The Importance of Secondary Containment

The Importance of Secondary Containment

When working with hazardous materials, secondary containment is more than a regulatory checkbox—it’s your frontline defense against environmental damage, compliance issues, and costly downtime. Whether you’re managing oil, chemicals, or industrial waste, the right spill containment strategy keeps your team safe and your business compliant.

At Spill Tect, we specialize in berm rentals and containment solutions designed to meet the highest industry standards—because prevention is always cheaper than cleanup.

 

What is Secondary Containment?

Secondary containment serves as a backup system in the event that your primary storage—tanks, drums, or pipes—leaks or fails. It includes tools like spill containment berms, pallets, trays, and barriers to stop hazardous liquids from escaping into the environment.

Unlike primary containment, which holds materials directly, secondary systems work as a protective layer that captures and contains accidental releases—minimizing exposure risks and environmental impact.

Why Secondary Containment Matters

1. Regulatory Compliance

Agencies like the EPA and OSHA enforce strict spill containment rules. Spill berm rentals are an efficient, cost-effective way to meet these requirements without long-term capital investment.

2. Workplace Safety

Leaks can lead to chemical burns, slip hazards, or toxic exposure. Secondary containment—especially berms—keeps spills contained quickly, reducing risk and protecting personnel.

3. Environmental Protection

Hazardous spills can result in lasting soil and water contamination. Deploying a spill berm immediately helps contain the mess, avoiding ecological damage and expensive remediation efforts.

4. Operational Efficiency

Renting spill berms enables quick setup and flexible containment in high-risk areas—especially during maintenance, mobile operations, or temporary projects. You get protection without the logistics of permanent infrastructure.

 

Types of Secondary Containment Solutions

Every spill scenario is different. Here’s how to choose the right tool for the job:

  • Spill Containment Berms (RENTAL) – The most versatile and scalable option. Ideal for large equipment, bulk tanks, or mobile fueling sites. Renting berms gives you instant coverage and peace of mind—perfect for short-term needs, emergency response, or compliance during special projects.

  • Containment Pallets – Designed for drum storage, they feature built-in sumps to capture leaks.

  • Drum & Spill Trays – Great for small-scale use. Lightweight, portable, and affordable.

  • Spill Barriers – Quick-deploy options that redirect or contain spreading liquids.

  • Lined Containment Areas – For large-scale or permanent applications requiring maximum chemical resistance.

Stay Compliant with Spill Berm Rentals

Berm rentals are a smart, flexible approach to containment, especially for:

  • Temporary or mobile job sites

  • Short-term storage or transfer projects

  • Emergency spill response

  • Equipment or vehicle washdown areas

  • Stormwater compliance zones

At Spill Tect, our rental berms are durable, chemical-resistant, and available in a wide range of sizes to fit your specific needs—without the upfront investment of permanent systems.

 

Regulatory Compliance Requirements

EPA SPCC Regulations – Require proper containment to prevent oil and chemical spills from reaching the environment.
OSHA Standards – Mandate effective secondary containment to protect worker health and safety.
Industry Guidelines – Manufacturing, energy, construction, and logistics sectors often have additional containment requirements. Berm rentals offer flexible compliance.

 

Final Thoughts

Secondary containment isn’t optional—it’s essential. And when it comes to fast, reliable, and cost-effective containment, berm rentals are the go-to solution for businesses that need protection without the overhead.

Need Secondary Containment—Fast?

Spill Tect offers top-rated berm rentals designed to keep your operation safe, compliant, and spill-free. Get in touch today to find the right containment system for your site or project.

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