01 - Plugging & Patching Drums
Plugging and Patching Drums is title one of four in Action Training Systems' HAZMAT Containment series, and SkillsTrain, the authorised ATS distributor, supplies it locally as part of that series. It opens the containment pathway with the most common field problem, a leaking drum, before the series moves on to cylinders and larger-scale spill work.
The title sets out the dangers that leaks in hazardous materials drums present, then focuses on the safety precautions a responder takes before touching one. It explains the primary ways a drum fails, through puncture, internal pressure and deterioration, so the cause shapes the response. It then demonstrates leak control using a range of equipment and methods, including using the features of the drum itself and applying different plug and patch techniques to stop the release. It closes on overpacking, covering why a damaged drum is placed inside a larger container and the procedure for doing it safely.
It sits within ATS's HAZMAT range, aligned to NFPA 470 and positioned for OSHA HAZWOPER content, and uses the teach, test and track model that assesses the learner and replays any section answered incorrectly. The programme runs about 21 minutes and is supplied on USB or as a classroom streaming option, individually or as part of the complete four-title series.
The complete four-title series also covers Containing Leaks in Pressurized Cylinders, Diking, Diverting and Retaining Spills, and Incidents Involving Fuel Tank Trucks, extending spill control from a single drum to tanker-scale events.
Who it is for: responders training in defensive HAZMAT containment, and training officers opening a structured containment programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
What leak-control methods does it demonstrate?
Using the drum's own features and applying various plug and patch techniques, matched to the way the drum has failed, plus overpacking a damaged drum into a larger container.
Why does it cover how drums fail?
Because puncture, pressure and deterioration each call for a different response, so recognising the cause guides the safest containment method.
Which standard does it align to?
NFPA 470, within ATS's HAZMAT range, and it is positioned for OSHA HAZWOPER content.