Forklift Drum Handling

Bremco supplies Australian-made forklift drum handling attachments designed to safely lift, transport and position drums with a forklift. Our durable solutions improve efficiency and safety in warehouses, manufacturing and industrial settings, with options to suit various drum sizes and applications.

Australian made forklift and crane lift attachments
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Forklift Drum Handling FAQs

What is forklift drum handling equipment?

Drum handling equipment is designed to safely lift, move, store, and dispense drums. Quality drum handling solutions minimise the risks associated with handling drums. Drum handling equipment includes drum grabs, drum clamps, forklift drum handlers, forklift drum inverters, and forklift drum rotators.

A forklift drum handler is a forklift attachment that slides onto forklift tynes to securely grip or clasp, lift, and move heavy barrels.

Forklift drum handlers include forklift clamps, single and double forklift drum handlers, drum inverters, and drum rotators.

In Australia, most drum handling equipment is designed for 205 litre steel drums. However, many drum handling products, including Bremco drum handling products, are compatible with most types of steel, plastic and fibre drums.

A forklift drum handler reduces a forklift’s rated load capacity as it adds weight to the front of the forklift and shifts the load’s centre of gravity. This significantly lowers the maximum weight a forklift can lift with tipping forward.

Yes, there is specific drum handling equipment that is designed to be used with a forklift, including forklift drum handlers, drum inverters, and drum rotators. These attachments can be used provided that:

  • They do not exceed the rated capacity of the forklift
  • The attachments have the compliance plate and serial number attached.
  • Forklift operators hold the appropriate license to operate the attachment, and have been appropriately trained.

Drum handling weight limits depend on the manufacturer rating and design of equipment. It’s critical that all equipment usage follows manufacturer instructions. Typical weight capacities include:

  • Up to 1000kg for powered or forklift-mounted equipment
  • 300-450kg for hydraulic and manual equipment

First slide the forklift tynes fully into the drum handler’s fork pockets. Tighten the locking mechanisms to lock the unit firmly onto the forks. Attach the safety chains and ensure there is no slack, then clip it securely to the prevent the handler from sliding off the forklift tynes.

Australian businesses are required to eliminate workplace risks as is reasonably practicable. Drum handling equipment helps reduce workplace risk by:

  • Preventing spills
  • Reducing strain injuries
  • Preventing exposure to hazardous chemicals

Heavy and full drums should always be handled with quality drum handling equipment designed for this purpose. All employees who handle drums should be trained in the proper use of drum handling equipment to avoid injury, drum damage, and spilling drum contents. Training should cover safe operation, load limits, emergency procedures, and chemical hazards, where relevant.

  • Ensure your forklift drum handler attachment is approved for your specific forklift.
  • Verify the total lifting capacity including the fitted attachment, by referring to the forklift’s capacity plate.
  • Lock your drum handler securely to the forklift tynes and never use bare forks to lift a drum.
  • Visually check attachment parts for damage or wear before every usage.
  • Avoid high movements – keep the drum just above the ground to maintain a low centre of gravity, and always manoeuvre the forklift slowly and steadily, as shifting liquid in the drum can alter forklift balance.
  • Consider the drum contents – corrosive and flammable liquids present spill risks.

In Australia, all drum handling attachments must comply with AS 2359.1 (powered industrial trucks).

When sourcing quality drum handling equipment in Australia:

  • Choose a quality Australian manufacturer that builds products to Australian Design Code AS3990 – Mechanical Steel Works
  • Ensure equipment is provided with the compliance plate and serial number attached.
  • Consider the requirements of your drum handling equipment, and ensure you select it based on:
    • The type/s of drum handling required
    • Drum weight, size, and contents
    • Your work environment (factory, warehouse, frequency of usage)
    • Capability of your workforce to use the equipment

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