Most Hazmat groups, either private or public are often called to transfer a product from one container to another. This article is to instruct you, or just remind you, of some of the hazards associated with transferring different products.

TO MOVE A PRODUCT QUICKLY AND SAFELY, A PUMP SHOULD BE USED

There are many different types of pumps available, just make sure you are using a pump that is suitable and compatible for the product you are transferring.

From hand pumps to diaphragm pumps, each type has its own positive and negatives. Hand pumps can make your task tedious and can be a slow process but hand pumps are used in industry every day to transfer products from one container to another.

In the case of moving product from one container to another, the air driven diaphragm pump is usually a good choice. If transferring fuel from a damaged saddle tank or a damaged shipping containers, these pumps make the job easier, faster and safer. You just need to follow some common sense type of rules.

MAKE SURE THAT THE PUMP YOU ARE USING IS COMPATIBLE WITH THE PRODUCT

If pumping fuels, a pump that can be grounded is a must. Make sure though that your hoses and stingers continue to complete the grounding and that everything is grounded and bonded. Hoses should be ridged and have a wire that is inside the hose material and the makes contact with the couplings or fittings at each end. Stingers should be aluminum or stainless steel, never use poly stingers when moving flammables. If pumping chemicals, again the correct pump should be selected. Again grounding and bonding needs to be considered.

WHAT ABOUT CORROSIVES.  YOU’LL NEED THE CORRECT PUMP FOR THE JOB

Is the material that the pump is made of, going to hold up to the product? If you’re transferring acids or bases with an aluminum pump, don’t expect that pump to continue to operate without problems. A stainless steel or poly pump will do better.

You must also take into consideration the material that makes up the internal parts of the pump. Are the diaphragms and the balls made of suitable material? Look at all of the components that make up the pump that you are using.

Before you buy a pump, consider what you are going to be pumping. Select the outer pump material as well as the internal parts of the pump. Check compatibility charts from your vendor or manufacturer.