Meaning
Containment structures placed around tanks or industrial equipment prevent hazardous liquids from escaping in the event of a primary vessel failure. Secondary fluid bunding provides a secure wall or basin that can hold the entire volume of the stored liquid plus a safety margin for rainwater. This feature is a requirement for meeting environmental regulations in many industrial zones.
Volume Capacity
Design rules usually dictate that the containment area must be large enough to hold one hundred and ten percent of the largest tank’s volume. If multiple tanks are present, the bund must account for the possibility of a catastrophic leak. Correct sizing prevents overflow during an incident.
Material Integrity
Construction of the basin must use materials that are chemically resistant to the fluid being stored. Concrete walls are often lined with epoxy or specialized plastics to prevent seepage into the ground. Regular inspections check for cracks or failures in the seal that would compromise the secondary fluid bunding.
Risk Mitigation
Automated sensors can be installed to detect the presence of liquid in the bund and trigger an alarm. This allows for rapid cleanup before the material causes damage to the rest of the facility. Proper maintenance includes keeping the area clear of rainwater and debris that would reduce the available containment volume.
