What is the difference between primary and secondary spill containment?

When storing oil and hazardous chemicals, we are obliged under the law (EPA, OSHA, NIOSH, NOAA, and so forth) to ensure that these substances are stored properly and securely so they do not escape their containment and pollute the environment.

There are two types of containment for these substances: primary and secondary. The purpose of each type is different and so is the way they're used.

Primary vs. Secondary

Primary containment is the receptacle in which the hazardous substance is contained during normal operation. It confines the substance and, when all goes well, does not allow it to spill or leak outside of the container.

Generally, the line between primary and secondary containment is fairly clear-cut, but, some solutions can be used as both. 

Generally, the line between primary and secondary containment is fairly clear-cut, but, some solutions can be used as both.for instance, could be used to line a container like a transformer or a tank, in which case it would act as secondary containment. However, when that same membrane is used to line a pond (frack water or wastewater) or a landfill, it acts as primary containment.

Emptying Containers

The way the containers are emptied is another major difference between the two types. Emptying a primary containment is a routine operational procedure, requiring us to train our employees how to handle the substance, while emptying secondary containment is an emergency procedure, requiring us to train our team in emergency response.