Scenario #1: While moving a filled bulk bag by forklift, a loop breaks, tearing open the bag causing the contents to spill on the floor.
Why did this happen?
This case of bulk bag failure is likely caused by forklift tines with sharp edges or abrasions, which cut into the strap causing it to break. Additionally, this can happen if the weight of the filled bulk bag exceeds the Safe Working Load or the forklift operator is using many sudden lifts/movements while handling the bag.
What should you do?
- Before starting up the forklift, take a closer look at the forks. Do you see any sharp edges or abrasions? If needed, change the forks or use a protective covering on the forks.
- Pay attention to the weight of the bag. Do not exceed the Safe Working Load (SWL) for any reason.
- Lift the bag in one smooth, fluid motion to prevent shaking the bag and causing additional strain on the lifting loops.
Scenario #2: While handling a bulk bag with a forklift, the bulk bag’s loops slip off the tines, causing the bag to be caught in the forklift wheels, tearing the body fabric.
Why did this happen?
In this case, bulk bag failure could result from the bag’s loops being too close to the tip of the forklift’s tines. It could also be because the bag’s size is too big (i.e. greater than 48” in diameter) or simply because the bag is positioned too far away from the mast of the forklift.
Bulk Bag Failure Preventative Measures:
- Carry the bulk bag close to the mast of the forklift and tilt the forks slightly upwards to prevent the bag loops from slipping off. Elevate the bag sufficiently to prevent the bag from dragging or getting caught in the wheels.
- In the case that you are handling a bag that is larger in size regularly, the best option is to switch out the standard forks on the forklift for longer forks, which can accommodate the larger bag size in a safe manner.
- Lastly, an alternative is to place the filled bulk bag on a wooden pallet first. Then, lift the pallet with the forks, rather than directly lifting via the lifting loops. As long as the product is secure and not shifting around during handling, this is a viable way to transport filled bulk bags.
Scenario #3: In the middle of moving a filled bulk bag, you notice a puncture in the bag.
Why did this happen?
This is usually a result of either forks coming into contact with a filled bag at high speeds, or a filled bag coming into contact with an object while being transported by forklift.
What should you do?
This is easily preventable if there are guidelines and standards of operation in place:
- Forklift operators must operate in a safe manner and keep speeds moderate. Always ensure that the forklift operator has enough space to maneuver and is constantly aware of their surroundings.
- When transporting a bulk bag with a forklift, always keep the bag in a position that is sufficiently elevated to prevent it from dragging or coming into contact with objects on the ground. Be careful to not hold the bag in a position where it obstructs the operator’s field of vision.
Scenario #4: The warehouse ran out of space and, as a result, several filled bulk bags were kept outside. After a few weeks, they were moved back inside but some of the bags broke while being moved back inside.
Why did this happen?
Bulk bags are made from a plastic polymer called polypropylene and are by nature susceptible to UV radiation. If left directly exposed to the sun, bulk bags will gradually wear down before experiencing a sharp drop off in quality. It is difficult to accurately evaluate the amount of damage caused by the UV rays and even brief exposure to the sun can result in severe degradation of the bag.
How to Prevent Bulk Bag Failure:
We do not recommend keeping bulk bags outdoors at all but there are some measures you can take:
- In the cases of limited exposure in a moderate climate, UV treated bulk bags offer extra resistance and have a longer useful life than regular bulk bags when exposed to UV rays. However, this does not mean that the UV treated bulk bags will be completely protected from UV rays and it is still not recommended that they be left outside for extended periods of time.
- Another option for temporary outside storage is to use a tarp or some sort of covering to shield the bags from the UV rays. This is likely the best option for outdoor storage, but it is still best to keep bulk bags stored indoors.