Rules & Regulations
In order to better clarify the general policies for the return and reuse of IBCs, we’ve included a link to the Rigid Intermediate Bulk Container Association (RIBCA) Document outlining the specific guidelines pertaining to their reuse and return. Find it below!
Guidelines for the Reuse of Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC’s)
The Rigid Intermediate Bulk Container Association (RIBCA) is a business unit of the Industrial Packaging Alliance of North America (IPANA).
The Members of RIBCA that produce Composite – Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC’s) represent in excess of 90% of all such packages produced in North America and Mexico. They have established Guidelines to assist the purchasers and emptiers of IBC’s in the correct reuse of the emptied containers.
A composite IBC consists of a large, generally 275 to 330-gallon capacity, polyethylene vessel that is supported by an outer frame generally of steel construction. The purchaser/filler supplies product to the user of the product, who becomes the emptier of the IBC. Due to the strong and durable construction of the IBC, it is ideally suited for continued, multi trip reuse. The IBC manufacturers in conjunction with a network of third party providers, whose specialty is the collection, cleaning, refurbishing and redelivery of the IBC to the filler, have established systems that simplify this process throughout North America and Mexico.
In order for these systems to function efficiently it is necessary that certain procedures be followed by the emptier and supported by the purchaser/filler. In these Guidelines we have divided the procedures into two (2) areas:
- An Empty IBC. A clear definition of what empty means for use by the emptier prior to collection for cleaning.
- Serviceable Unit. A list of defects that render the IBC unsuitable for continued reuse unless repaired.
EMPTY IBC
Guideline Definition: The interior of the IBC shall be drip dry and free of any solid material.
By Law: If the product remaining is classified as dangerous goods, 40 CFR 261.7 shall apply as follows:
No more than 3.0 % by weight of the total capacity which is:
- 0.8-gallons in the case of a 275-gallon IBC
- 1.0-gallons in the case of a 330-gallon IBC
Note: If the product is a dangerous good and an amount in excess of 3.0 % by weight is inadvertently transported, the emptier will be notified that the IBC contains product and the emptier will arrange for the prompt return of the product to his facility.
By Law: If the emptied IBC had contained an Acutely Dangerous Material (P listed and poisonous by inhalation) 40 CFR 261.31 shall apply as follows:
The IBC must be triple rinsed, drip dry and certified to comply.
Failure to comply with these instructions can result in the IBC being returned to the emptier/shipper and return freight will be at the emptier’s expense.
These guidelines may also be used for other IBC design types. The definition for an empty IBC applies to all design types. A serviceable unit is defined as one whose applicable components meet the criteria as outlined. In addition, certain design types may be required to meet additional criteria such as minimum wall thickness. Contact the IBC owner if you question the serviceability of the unit.
SERVICEABLE UNIT
Under the RIBCA Guidelines any of the following defects shall render the IBC to be in non-serviceable condition and the IBC should not be returned by the emptier.
Cage No rust or corrosion
Cage No broken welds, rods or bolts Pallet steel No bent or damaged corners or feet Pallet steel All welds and bolts intact
Pallet wood No missing or broken boards or feet Bottle No punctures, cuts or cracks
Bottle No residue on the exterior or interior
Closures No punctures or cracks and closed as for shipment Valves Operable and closed for shipment
In addition:
- There must be an MSDS sheet with each IBC, or on file at the cleaning facility
- All labels and marks required by the US department of Transportation (DOT) regulations must be in place
- All label plates in place
- Quantity – there shall be a minimum of 8 units from the same manufacturer in each return shipment
Note: A photographic record of each returned IBC that fails to meet the return requirements will be maintained by the cleaner for use in dispute resolution.