FIBC Safety Guidelines: Best Practices for Safe Handling and Storage Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs), often called bulk bags, are engineered for moving and storing large volumes of dry goods. While our bags are manufactured to ISO 21898:2024, safe handling is essential to protect people, product, and equipment. Key principles, at a glance Never exceed the bag’s Safe Working Load (SWL) and always follow the handling label. Keep loops vertical and untwisted when lifting, use smooth or protected forklift tines, and never stand beneath a suspended bag. Fill on a stable base or pallet, keep the fill height sensible for stability, and close/secure spouts correctly. Storage of empty FIBCs Store clean, dry, and undercover to avoid accidental damage and UV exposure. Avoid extreme temperatures and harsh weather that can degrade fabric and stitching. Filling FIBCs Place the bag on level ground or a pallet that supports the full base before filling. Close or tie off the discharge spout before filling to prevent product loss. For stability, keep the bag’s height within sensible limits relative to its width, and consider vibration during or after filling to settle product evenly. Do not fill unevenly, which can cause tilting and unsafe lifts. Lifting with forklifts Set fork tines to the correct width so loops hang vertically without lateral forces, and ensure tines are smooth or fitted with protective covers. Lift and travel with the bag close to the mast and as low as practical for truck stability, with the mast slightly tilted back when appropriate. Do not drag bags, and do not allow a bag to project over the side of a vehicle or pallet. Lifting with cranes or hoists Use rounded hooks or safety hooks with latches to prevent slippage and avoid squeezing the loops. Keep all loops vertical and untwisted, never lift by fewer loops than provided. When righting a toppled bag, use a fabric sling passed through all lifting loops to avoid tearing loops off. Emptying FIBCs Empty by gravity or approved suction; never stand under a suspended bag during discharge. Open the discharge spout only when the bag is supported by a suitable safety frame or device. For plain/solid bottoms, cutting the base is a last resort and must be controlled to stop flow safely. Stacking and storage of filled FIBCs Use supported stacks against retaining walls or a stable pyramid stack where support is not available. Do not push bags into a stack, which can damage sides and reduce stability. Cover outdoors with waterproof, UV-resistant material, and keep off standing water. Hazardous or explosive materials Consult the material’s SDS, and select the correct FIBC type and features (for example, anti-static options for hazardous zones). Follow site procedures for earthing, dust control, and exclusion zones around suspended loads. Do’s and Don’ts Do Observe the handling label and SWL. Ensure the bag is stable before lifting or moving. Adjust fork width correctly and keep tines level. Use hooks of adequate size with smooth, rounded contact surfaces. Consider static control where required, and protect bags from rain and prolonged sunlight. Secure bags properly during transport and dispose of retired bags responsibly. Don’t Exceed SWL or start/stop suddenly with a suspended load. Fill unevenly or allow personnel beneath a suspended bag. Project bags over vehicle or pallet edges, or tilt the mast forward with a suspended bag. Withdraw fork tines before the load is fully relieved. Stack bags unless you are confident in stability and method. Why buy FIBCs from Pacific Packaging Australia Manufactured to ISO 21898:2024 guidance for reliable performance and safety. Clear handling labels and local support to help you set up safe workflows. Options for liners, fill and discharge spouts, and anti-static features for demanding applications. Explore our full range of FIBC bulk bags and talk to our team for site-specific guidance.