Drum Stands

About Drum Stands

Drum stands, dollies and cradles are essential workshop equipment designed to safely store, transport and dispense liquids from standard 205-litre drums. These robust handling solutions enable tradespeople and facilities managers to move heavy drums with ease whilst maintaining proper workplace safety standards. Whether you're working with oils, lubricants, chemicals or other liquids, a quality drum stand provides a stable, ergonomic platform that reduces the risk of spills and manual handling injuries.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks drum handling equipment from trusted brands including Sealey and Draper, featuring heavy-duty steel construction with powder-coated finishes for durability in demanding industrial environments. Drum dollies typically feature castor wheels for mobility around the workshop, whilst drum cradles hold drums at an angle for controlled dispensing. Many models include integrated spill containment features to comply with HSE guidelines and COSHH regulations, helping businesses maintain safe working practices when handling potentially hazardous liquids.

Applications

Drum stands and handling equipment are indispensable across numerous trades and industries:

• Vehicle Mechanics and Auto Workshops: Storing and dispensing engine oils, brake fluids, coolants and lubricants
• Manufacturing Facilities: Managing industrial lubricants, hydraulic fluids and process chemicals
• Plant Operators and Maintenance Engineers: Handling oils and fluids for heavy machinery servicing
• Agricultural Workers: Storing and dispensing diesel, hydraulic oils and agricultural chemicals
• Facilities Managers: Maintaining heating oil supplies and cleaning chemicals for commercial buildings
• Warehouse and Logistics Operations: Moving and storing bulk liquid supplies efficiently
• Construction Site Managers: Handling fuels, oils and site chemicals in compliance with safety regulations

Choosing The Right Drum Stands

Intended Use: Determine whether you need mobility (drum dolly), dispensing capability (drum cradle), or static storage. If you regularly move drums between locations, a dolly with smooth-rolling castors is essential. For dispensing applications, a cradle provides the correct angle for controlled pouring or pumping.

Load Capacity: Ensure the drum stand's rated capacity exceeds the combined weight of your drum and contents. A full 205-litre drum of oil can weigh 250kg or more, so look for units rated to at least 300-350kg for a safety margin.

Spill Containment: Consider models with integrated spill trays or purchase separate bunding equipment to comply with environmental and HSE regulations. This is particularly crucial when handling oils, chemicals or any COSHH-regulated substances.

Build Quality: MyToolShed.co.uk offers heavy-gauge steel construction with protective powder coating to resist corrosion from chemical exposure, ensuring proven durability in professional workshop environments.

Safety Information

Manual Handling: Never attempt to lift or tip full 205-litre drums manually. Always use appropriate mechanical handling equipment such as drum dollies or cradles following HSE guidelines to prevent back injuries.

Spill Prevention: Position drum stands on level, stable flooring away from heat sources. Use spill trays or bunds beneath all drums containing oils or hazardous substances to comply with COSHH and environmental protection regulations.

Secure Positioning: Always engage wheel brakes on drum dollies before dispensing liquids. Ensure drums are properly seated and secure before moving them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size drums do these stands accommodate?
Most drum stands are designed specifically for standard 205-litre (45-gallon) steel drums, which are the industry-standard size for bulk liquids in the UK. Always check product specifications to confirm compatibility.

Do I need spill containment for oil drums?
Yes, HSE and environmental regulations require spill containment when storing oils and potentially polluting substances. A spill tray must have sufficient capacity to contain at least 110% of the largest drum's contents.

What's the difference between a drum dolly and a drum cradle?
A drum dolly keeps the drum upright for mobility, allowing transport around your workshop. A drum cradle tilts the drum at an angle specifically for dispensing liquids, making it easier to access taps or pour contents without a pump.