This specification covers self-supporting, molded polyethylene, tight head drums for use in surface and air shipments. Drums shall be manufactured from virgin or recycled polyethylene plastics, and with handles and openings the number of which depends on the capacity of the drum. Safety seals and torque wrenches may also be provided as necessary. The drum shall be uniform in color and free of lumps, blisters, or flash, with the drum interior clean and free of foreign matter. Drop, leak proofness, hydrostatic pressure, stacking, handling, and capacity tests shall be performed and shall conform to the requirements specified. The drum shall also be examined to assess its conformance with the specified dimensions and capacity.

1.1 This specification covers self-supporting, molded polyethylene, tight head drums and open head drums designed for surface and air shipment, ranging in size from 5 gal nominal (19 L) to and including 119 gal nominal (450 L).

1.2 Virgin or recycled polyethylene plastics2 or combinations thereof can be used provided the finished product meets the requirements of this specification.

Note 1: There is no known direct ISO equivalent to this standard. Similar standards are ISO 20848-1, ISO 20848-2, and ISO 20848-3.

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

1.4 Drums 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).

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

1.6 The Hazardous Material (Dangerous Goods) Regulations requires the shipper, or offeror for shipment, to be responsible to determine the suitability of the packaging for its intended purpose.

1.7 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.