SIST EN 12714:2010

Overview

SIST EN 12714:2010 is a European Standard developed by CEN that defines the specifications for removable head (open head) plastic drums with nominal capacities ranging from 25 liters to 60 liters. Designed specifically for open head drums, this standard ensures consistent quality, dimensions, and performance across manufacturing and supply chains. It excludes injection molded pails and focuses on drums made primarily from high-density polyethylene or similarly suitable plastics.

This standard is essential for manufacturers, purchasers, and users involved in packaging, transport, and storage of various materials, including those subject to regulations for dangerous goods. SIST EN 12714:2010 facilitates safety, interchangeability, and regulatory compliance throughout Europe.

Key Topics

• Scope and Definitions
  Covers removable head plastic drums sized 25 L to 60 L. Defines key terms like nominal capacity, brimful capacity, total capacity, overall height, diameter, and drum mass to ensure uniform understanding.

• Dimensions and Tolerances
  Specifies strict dimensional requirements including overall height, diameter, and minimum opening size with defined tolerances to ensure compatibility and stacking ability.
  Example dimensions:

  • 25 L drum: Diameter ~305 mm, Height ~435 mm
  • 60 L drum: Diameter ~397 mm, Height ~625 mm

• Material and Markings
  Requires drums to be made from high-density polyethylene or suitable plastics, permanently marked with material identification symbols excluding gaskets.

• Closures and Handling
  Drums must have a robust closure system involving a removable lid and closing ring or similar device with tamper-evident features. Handling provisions for manual and mechanical methods are addressed.

• Stacking and Finish
  Ensures drums are stackable, with external surfaces suitable for label application. Preferred drum body color is blue, but other colors may be agreed upon.

• Capacity Measurement Method
  Annex A outlines the gravimetric method for determining total and brimful drum capacities by weighing water-filled drums, ensuring accurate volume verification.

Applications

• Industrial Packaging
  SIST EN 12714:2010 drums are ideal for packaging semi-solid, liquid, and powder materials requiring secure, reusable containers with removable lids.

• Transportation and Storage
  Standardized dimensions and closure requirements support efficient transport, stacking, and storage, including compatibility with handling equipment.

• Hazardous Materials Handling
  While the standard sets physical requirements, it highlights the need to comply with transport regulations for dangerous goods (ADR, RID, ICAO, IMDG Code) when applicable.

• Labeling and Identification
  Surface finish suitable for labels helps companies meet traceability and regulatory marking standards.

• Quality Control
  Manufacturers and buyers use the defined capacity measurement procedure to confirm drum volumes align with nominal capacities, supporting quality assurance.

Related Standards

• EN ISO 90-2:1999
  Provides definitions and methods for measuring container dimensions and capacities applicable to drums and other packaging.

• ADR (European Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road)
  Governs road transport compliance for hazardous materials using plastic drums.

• RID (Regulations concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail)
  Establishes rail transport requirements for drums carrying dangerous goods.

• ICAO Technical Instructions
  Covers air transport safety for drums with hazardous materials, ensuring proper packaging compliance.

• IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code)
  Defines maritime shipping standards for plastic drums carrying regulated substances.

Summary

SIST EN 12714:2010 is a critical European directive that standardizes removable head plastic drums with nominal capacities between 25 L and 60 L. By setting uniform requirements for dimensions, materials, handling features, and labeling suitability, this standard facilitates product safety, regulatory conformity, and operational efficiency throughout the supply chain. It is especially important for industries engaged in packaging, storage, and transport of liquids and solids, including potentially hazardous substances. Compliance with EN 12714 supports manufacturers and users in meeting quality and legal requirements for plastic drums in the European market and beyond.