Overview
EN ISO 20848-1:2008 (ISO 20848-1:2006) defines the characteristics and dimensions of removable‑head (open‑head) plastics drums with nominal capacities from 113.6 L to 220 L. The standard specifies dimensional requirements, capacity definitions, material marking, closure and handling features that support safe, consistent manufacturing, filling, handling and reuse of open‑head plastic drums.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and capacities: Covers removable‑head (OH) plastics drums in the nominal capacity range 113.6 L – 220 L (examples: 113.6 L, 120 L, 132.5 L, 150 L, 208.2 L, 220 L).
- Dimensions and tolerances: Specifies overall diameter, minimum opening and overall height for each nominal capacity, measured at ambient conditions (measurements not to be made within 48 hours of manufacture). Tolerances are defined and may be tightened after review.
- Capacity definitions and measurement: Defines brimful capacity, total capacity and provides a gravimetric method (weighing water) to determine capacity, with temperature correction factors for water density.
- Drum mass: Mass tolerance is ±3% (empty drum including closures); exact mass should be agreed between purchaser and supplier.
- Materials and marking: Drums shall be made from HDPE or other suitable plastics (non‑plastic components allowed where appropriate). All plastic components (excluding gaskets) must carry a material identification symbol (Annex B).
- Closures and tamper evidence: Closure system includes a lid and closing ring (or equivalent), must provide tamper‑evident means. Drums should be compatible with plug/bung closure systems per ISO 20848‑3.
- Handling, stacking and finish: Drums must permit mechanical handling, be stackable per manufacturer guidance, and have an external finish suitable for label attachment. Preferred body colour is blue unless otherwise agreed.
Applications and who uses this standard
- Packaging engineers and drum manufacturers use EN ISO 20848‑1 to design and produce compliant open‑head plastic drums.
- Purchasers, fillers and logistics providers rely on the standard to ensure compatibility with filling equipment, handling systems, pallets and storage.
- Chemical, food and industrial supply companies use it when selecting drums for storage, transport and reuse.
- Regulatory and compliance teams reference this standard when drums are intended for the transport of dangerous goods alongside UN/ICAO/IMO (IMDG) transport requirements.
Related standards
- ISO 20848‑2: Non‑removable head (tight‑head) drums
- ISO 20848‑3: Plug/bung closure systems for 113.6 L to 220 L drums
- Transport regulations: UN Recommendations, ICAO Technical Instructions, IMO IMDG Code
Keywords: EN ISO 20848‑1:2008, ISO 20848‑1, plastics drums, removable head, open head drums, HDPE drums, drum dimensions, brimful capacity, drum closures, drum marking.
