An Empty Drum Can Still Explode

Controls to confirm

• Avoid hot work where possible: assess replacement, specialist disposal or a suitable cold repair or cutting method before choosing welding, flame cutting or grinding. Cold methods still need a risk assessment and appropriate preparation; they are not automatic permission to cut a used container. Do not substitute a spark-producing tool because it seems quicker.
• Keep used drums out of improvised hot-work setups: never use one as a welding support, workbench or seat. Identify what it has contained and keep any uncertain container out of the task until competent assessment is complete. A drained appearance, an old label or the absence of an obvious liquid does not establish that the drum is safe to heat.
• Use competent specialist preparation if hot work is unavoidable: obtain an assessed, authorised and supervised method before work begins. Required cleaning, isolation, inspection and atmosphere checks must suit the container and its residues. Gas-freeing alone may leave material that releases vapour when heated, and a gas detector does not detect every residue. Leave inerting to specialists; do not improvise a purge or filling method.

Today’s action

Before today’s cutting or repair work, check the work area for used drums and tanks. Remove them from improvised support duties and refer any proposed container work to the responsible supervisor for assessment.

Source guidance

Authoritative guidance checked 26 October 2026. Apply the legal requirements and approved procedures for your location.

• HSE — Deadly explosions during cutting of drums and containers: hidden residues, changed contents and alternatives to hot work
• HSE — INDG314: Hot work on small tanks and drums; risk assessment, competent preparation, supervision and gas-testing limitations