A How To Guide on IBC Tote Cleaning
The intermediate bulk container (IBC) is as versatile as it is cost-effective for holding and transporting various cargo. The IBC is often selected for their high capacity, different options, and reusability. Now, maintaining the cleanliness of these containers is important in nearly all applications, but especially when the containers are used to store consumables, purity-sensitive commodities, water, or rainwater. Cleanliness is particularly important when the IBC is used in a repeated drain and fill cycle as proper IBC tote cleaning and maintenance can prevent cross-contamination, bacteria growth, and algae growth.
Let’s look at a step-by-step guide on how to sanitize an IBC tote.
Steps to Sanitize an IBC Tote
- Empty the Tote: The first step in sanitizing an IBC tote is to empty all contents from the tote. This step is done so any residue from the previous content is removed as much as possible before the cleaning process begins.
- Rinse the Tote: Prior to using any cleaning agents, rinse out the tote thoroughly with plain, potable water. This step is necessary to remove and wash away any remaining material after emptying and may not be very effective for non-polar, hydrophobic liquids.
- Apply Cleaning Agent: The best or correct cleaning agent can depend on what the tote previously held. For example, if the tote held motor oil, using hot water and a caustic degreaser can help convert the oil into a soap to be washed away. If the tote held food, water, or other consumable materials, a light bleach mixture (made to manufacturer’s directions) can be used to apply to all surfaces for scrubbing.
- Scrub and Rinse: After applying the cleaning agent, scrub the interior surfaces of the tote thoroughly. A soft bristle brush with an extended reach pole that is flexible or adjustable is best. Ensure all crevices and hard-to-reach areas are also cleaned. Once the scrubbing is done, rinse the tote several times with clean water to remove any traces of the cleaning agent. A power / pressure washer is often recommended and can be used at this step to ease the work and blast away any stubborn residues, biofilm, or algae buildup.
- Dry Out the Tote: The final step in sanitizing an IBC is to let the tote dry completely. Leave the top lid and bottom valve open, keep the tote in a contaminant-free environment (if possible) to allow air circulation and speed up the drying process.
Please note that when sanitizing an IBC tote, it is important to wear protective equipment, such as gloves and safety glasses, to protect against potential exposure to harmful residues or cleaning agents. This, of course, and the extent of protection, will depend on the specific cleaning agent and what the IBC previously held.
To conclude, sanitizing an IBC tote involves a simple yet effective process of emptying, rinsing, cleaning, repeat rinsing, and drying. By following these steps, you can ensure that your IBC tote is clean, safe, and ready for reuse.
Professional Cleaning Services
In some cases, such as IBC totes that held hazardous materials or dangerous chemicals, professional cleaning services may be required and may be the safest, most sure way to ensure your IBC tote is thoroughly cleaned for continued use. And even with certified cleaning, such IBCs may not be approved for certain uses, such as potable water. For professional cleaning, there are many reputable and trusted IBC cleaning companies throughout the United States. Oftentimes, choosing a provider located as close as possible will help reduce costs if this option is needed.