Bulk Bag Safety Standards: What Every Buyer in the USA Should Know
Safety Standards for Bulk Bag Manufacturers –An Introduction
In a range of industries such as agriculture, chemical and construction, bulk bags – also called Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs) – are indispensible for the handling and storage of such cargo in large volumes. It is vital that these bags be safe and reliable. This guide gives an overview of safety standards that all buyers in the USA need to know when dealing with the bulk bag manufacturers.
Knowing Safe Working Load (SWL) and Safety Factor (SF)
The maximum weight that can be carried by a bulk bag, safely, is indicated by the Safe Working Load (SWL). The Safety Factor (SF) is a rate of strength over the SWL exhibited by the bag. For instance, a 5:1 SF indicates five times the SWL that the bag can hold while being tested. In the USA, a 5:1 SF is routinely applied to single-use bags, but a 6:1 SF is required for multiples use bags or for hazardous cargo containers.
Key Safety Standards and Regulations
ISO 21898:2004 Standard
This international standard prescribes requirements in the design, testing, and utilization of FIBCs. This ensures that the standard of safety and performance are same for bulk bags including such things as material strength, construction and labeling. We at Sudarshan Addpack, being the leading Bulk bag manufacturers focus on providing the best quality standards.
FDA Regulations for Food-Grade Bags
Compliance with FDA rules is essential in the food industry, when it comes to bulk bags. Though non-approval of bulk bags does not apply to the FDA, it does require that foods-contacting materials come up to certain standards. For example, polypropylene resin used in such bags must adhere to FDA Regulation 21 CFR 177.1520.
Best Practices for Safe Handling
Proper Lifting Techniques
Never use fewer than all lifting loops on a bulk bag. Don’t bundle loops up into one hook unless the bag is built to do so. Make sure lifting equipment that uses fork-lifts or cranes has smooth and rounded edges so that they will not hurt the bag.
Filling and Emptying Procedures
Before filling, let the bag be appropriate to product and environment especially regarding electrostatic issues. Never let personnel stand under a suspended bag during emptying and never deviate from the manufacturer’s instruction for closing the bag when full.
Storage Guidelines
Categorize bulk bags in a clean, dry place, away from direct sunlight to avoid degradation. Always focus on stability and avoid exceeding stack heights all including recommendations. Cover bags to prevent dirt, dust and moisture.
Importance of Proper Labeling
Packaging with bulk bags must properly identify the manufacturer’s name, SWL, SF including any other handling instructions. Such information is essential to ensure the correct safe use of the bags.
The Choice of the Best Bulk Bag Manufacturers
Choosing a trusted manufacturer is critical to guarantee that bulk bags are safe and of quality. Sudarshan Addpack is a name to be relied upon in the industry for strict safety regulations and the best quality bulk bags used in numerous applications.
Conclusion
Having knowledge of and observing bulk bags’ standards of safety is important in avoiding accidents and maintaining efficient work habits. As it is, here informed on SWL, SF, ISO standards, FDA regulations and best handling practices, buyers can make safe and effective choices. It is with reputable, bulk bag manufacturers like Sudarshan Addpack that the products are guaranteed to comply with all required safety standards.
