If a leak is found in a lubricant storage drum, what should be done?

If a leak is found in a lubricant storage drum, the best course of action is to return it to the supplier. This is crucial for several reasons. First, returning the drum ensures that the integrity of the lubricant is upheld; contamination from the environment or loss of lubricant can affect its performance and safety.

By returning the drum, you also reduce the risk of further leaks or environmental hazards, as spilled lubricant can lead to cleanup issues and potential legal liabilities due to pollution. Additionally, suppliers often have protocols in place for managing defective products, which can include inspections or replacements that ensure the lubricant remains in line with its specifications.

Addressing the leak directly or ignoring it poses risks to both personnel safety and machine reliability. Putting the drum into service immediately would not only be unsafe but could also compromise equipment performance due to contaminated lubricant. Thus, returning the leaking drum to the supplier is the most prudent action to safeguard machinery performance and maintain safety standards.