Posted By Seamus O Sullivan Hi everyone, This is just a general enquiry/comment about the weight of paint containers, I came accross one In Ireland on Saturday, it was 28 KG. It had a carrying handle like the smaller containers. The painter said they are newish containers, did anyone encounter them? He thinks they are called barrells of paint, as against tubs. I was suprised to find they were so heavy. This guy was carrying them up stairs, across building sites etc. I am sure they could be got in smaller containers, as he said it was standard paint. I am really only interested if anyone was aware they came in containers which were so heavy and have any views on the weight 28 kg Maybe they are cheaper to buy ??? They are bound to lead to health problems. Any views seamus

Posted By Neil R "same handle as smaller containers" mmm... How do you put correct manual handling procedures in place on something that weighs 28kg but is designed to be carried with one hand? Is the handle strong enough to support that weight? In an ideal world the guys using the paint would assess the load and decide that they could or couldnt manage it and seek help. However the truth is the old macho image would come out and they will pick it up anyway. In all seriousness an item like this is asking for problems: You cant lift it safely yourself You cant get someone to help you Nobody would ask for a mechanical aid. Manual handling regulations nightmare, stick with the normal size containers please

Posted By Simone Granger I agree with Geoff but perhaps it could be decanted into smaller containers to transport around site?

Posted By P MacEochaidin Standard chemical containers can range in weight from 1kg, 2kg, 5kg, 10kg, 20kg, 25kg up to >200kg dependent on the volume required (incl. specific gravity of chemical) or method of application/process in use. Logically it may be prudent to transfer yer paint to smaller containers. Ideally you should go back to the supplier. I reckon these volumes are being purchased as a cost saver &/or as easier volumes for vehicle transfer to sites. Again for transfer to smaller containers you don't necessarily need a tap. A simple syphon pump can be inserted/attached. Although no specifics as detailed about the type of paint etc....so maybe not practical.

Posted By MickN Seamus, this is about money, resources and people. Firstly there's nothing wrong with lifting and/or carrying 28kg, it depends on who's doing the carrying and how far. If the person using these cans can physically handle it then there's no problem. If the ammount of lifting and carrying that gets done is still a concern then move your focus on to how the cans get delivered to site and how they move from there to where they get used. Trollies and other carrying devices can cheaply be bought and used to "lighten the load". Contact the contractor and put some pressure on (phone calls, audits etc.) to get them used on site. I find that talking to them about the problem usually leads them to finding their own preferred answer to the problem. Even a small step in the right direction is a result. Mick