Secondary Containment
Secondary Containment Systems for Spill Prevention & Compliance
Secondary containment systems are designed to capture leaks, spills, and drips from drums, pails, and other liquid containers to help protect employees, facilities, and the environment. In many applications, secondary containment is required by EPA regulations to prevent hazardous materials, oils, or chemicals from escaping into drains, soil, or waterways.
BASCO offers a wide range of secondary containment solutions—including steel platforms, polyethylene spill pallets, and modular spill deck systems—to help you meet compliance requirements while safely storing, handling, or dispensing liquids.
Secondary containment refers to any system used to contain a release from a primary container, whether caused by leaks, spills, or equipment failure. Common secondary containment products include spill pallets, spill decks, basins, trays, and platforms. To comply with EPA 40 CFR 264.175, secondary containment systems must be leak-proof, compatible with the stored liquid, capable of draining accumulated fluids, and sized to hold at least 10% of the total stored volume or 100% of the largest container—whichever is greater.
Choosing the right secondary containment depends on the type of liquid being stored and how it is handled. Steel containment platforms are commonly used for non-corrosive liquids such as oils, coolants, and many solvents, especially in indoor environments where fire resistance and durability are important. Polyethylene containment systems are ideal for corrosive materials like acids and caustics, as they resist chemical attack and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Spill decks and modular containment systems offer flexible, low-profile solutions that can be expanded to support active filling, dispensing, or maintenance operations.
Secondary containment is required anywhere liquids are stored or used, including warehouses, storage rooms, manufacturing floors, maintenance areas, and outdoor storage locations. Outdoor applications often require containment systems designed to manage precipitation while preventing overflows. Some facilities may also be subject to Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) planning or spill reporting requirements, depending on the materials stored and site conditions.
With the industry’s largest selection of secondary containment equipment and decades of hands-on experience, BASCO helps customers identify the right solution for their application, materials, and regulatory needs. Whether you need basic spill protection or a fully engineered containment system, our experts are available to help you get it right.
What is secondary containment used for?
Secondary containment is used to capture leaks, spills, and drips from containers holding liquids, helping prevent environmental contamination, workplace hazards, and regulatory violations.
Is secondary containment required by law?
Yes. The EPA requires secondary containment for many regulated materials under 40 CFR 264.175, particularly for hazardous waste and oil storage applications.
How do I calculate secondary containment capacity?
You must provide containment for 10% of the total stored volume or 100% of the largest container, whichever is greater. Many facilities choose additional capacity for extra protection.
Can I use plastic containment for all liquids?
No. While polyethylene containment is ideal for corrosive chemicals, some solvents require specially treated plastic, and non-corrosive liquids may be better suited for steel containment systems.
Still have questions? Our resource What Is Secondary Containment? explains the basics, regulations, and how to choose the right solution.