This specification establishes the performance requirements and test methods for molded polyethylene open-head, self-supporting, and nonreusable pails used in packaging and transporting nonhazardous goods. The products for packaging in the open-head pails may be in liquid, solid, past, granular, or powder form. Each pail is classified as either pails for liquids or pails for nonliquids. Materials for the manufacture of the pails should be compatible with the intended contents. Carbon black or other suitable pigments may be used for ultraviolet protection if needed. Each pail should conform to the required values of capacity, closure, drop strength, stacking strength, amount of column stack vibratioin, compatibility permeation, resistance to environmental stress cracking, and other special requirements.

1.1 This specification covers molded polyethylene, open-head, self-supporting, nonreusable pails intended for the packaging and transportation of nonhazardous goods. Pails are to have volume capacities between 1 and 7 gal (3.8 to 26.5 L).

1.2 Pails intended to contain hazardous goods (materials) shall be in accordance with and tested to United States Department of Transportation Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 49, Parts (100–199).

1.3 The purpose of this specification is to establish performance requirements and test methods for molded open-head polyethylene pails.

1.4 Additives for the resin used and design of the pails are left to the discretion of the supplier, within the allowable limits of regulatory and performance requirements.

1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.6 The following safety hazards caveat pertains to the test method portions, Section 10, of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.