Open head drums are not designed to hold liquids. They are designed and marketed for holding and shipping solids and viscous products. However, if the drums are not being shipped or moved, you could put liquids in them.
The lids on open head drums are not leakproof. Closed head drums should be used for applications where liquids are being transported.
It is important to pay attention to the UN codes on drums. If the code has an S, it can only be used for solids. Also, the UN code will tell you the weight the drums can hold. It will either tell you the specific gravity it can hold or the gross mass of solids in kilograms it will hold.
Learn more about UN codes
Title: Can an open head drum be used for holding liquids?
Description: Appropriate uses for open head drums.
Published: 4/29/2008
Last Edited: 12/28/2022
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