Who this checklist is for
This checklist is for anyone selecting drip trays for containers, cans, drums, machinery, generators, plant rooms, workshops, stores or mobile work areas.
SERPRO Checklist Resource
Drip Tray Selection Checklist
Use this checklist before choosing a drip tray, spill tray or small containment tray. It focuses on footprint, capacity, height, liquid type, available space and whether a grid top or other feature is needed.
What this checklist covers
- Container or equipment footprint
- Available length, width and height
- Tray capacity and liquid type
- Grid top or low-profile needs
- Indoor, outdoor and handling considerations
When to use it
Use it before purchasing trays, when replacing unsuitable trays, when adding new equipment, when reviewing storage areas or when checking whether an existing tray still fits the item and the risk.
Main checklist sections
| Section | What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Footprint | Measure the longest and widest points of the container, equipment or item that must sit inside the tray. | A tray should physically fit the item before capacity is considered. |
| Available space | Measure the maximum available length, width and height where the tray will sit. | The best tray is not useful if it cannot fit in the available area. |
| Capacity | Consider the likely leak volume, container size and whether the tray is for drips or secondary containment. | Tray capacity should match the intended purpose. |
| Liquid type | Identify whether the liquid is oil, water-based, coolant, chemical, AdBlue, solvent or unknown. | Material compatibility may affect tray choice. |
| Grid top | Decide whether the container needs to sit above liquid on a removable grid or directly in the tray base. | Grid tops can be useful but are not required for every application. |
| Height | Check whether a low-profile tray is required for access, loading or clearance. | Tray height can affect usability and safe handling. |
| Location | Consider indoor/outdoor use, sunlight, traffic, floor condition and cleaning requirements. | The operating environment affects durability and suitability. |
| Inspection | Check that the tray can be emptied, cleaned and inspected easily. | A tray that is not maintained may become ineffective. |
Printable workplace copy
Use the button above to open a clean print-ready version with SERPRO branding, review details, inspection fields, tick boxes, notes spaces, follow-up actions and signature/date areas.
Related SERPRO categories and guides
Checklist questions
Should tray footprint or capacity be checked first?
For many applications, footprint comes first because the container or equipment must fit inside the tray. Capacity is then considered against the risk.
Is a grid top always better?
No. A grid top is useful where items should sit above retained liquid, but simple open trays may be better for many drip and leak tasks.
Can a drip tray replace a bund?
Not necessarily. Drip trays are useful for small drips and predictable leaks, while bunds or larger containment may be needed for higher-risk storage.
Disclaimer
This checklist is provided as general practical guidance only. It does not replace a site-specific risk assessment, COSHH assessment, safety data sheet review, environmental advice, legal advice, emergency procedure or the instructions of a competent person. Always assess the actual substance, quantity, location, drainage route, exposure risk and site controls before selecting spill response equipment or carrying out clean-up work.
Page information
- Author
- SERPRO Technical Team
- Reviewer
- SERPRO Ltd
- Date reviewed
- May 2026
- Version
- 1.0
- Contact
- sales@serpro.co.uk | 01622 236 303
SERPRO
Workplace Spill Control Checklist
SERPRO Ltd
sales@serpro.co.uk
01622 236 303
www.serpro.co.uk
sales@serpro.co.uk
01622 236 303
www.serpro.co.uk
Drip Tray Selection Checklist
Item being placed in tray:
Item length:
Item width:
Maximum available space:
Liquid type:
Required capacity:
Checked by:
Date:
Checklist
| OK | Area | Check required | Notes / action required |
|---|---|---|---|
| ☐ | Footprint | Measure the longest and widest points of the container, equipment or item that must sit inside the tray. | |
| ☐ | Available space | Measure the maximum available length, width and height where the tray will sit. | |
| ☐ | Capacity | Consider the likely leak volume, container size and whether the tray is for drips or secondary containment. | |
| ☐ | Liquid type | Identify whether the liquid is oil, water-based, coolant, chemical, AdBlue, solvent or unknown. | |
| ☐ | Grid top | Decide whether the container needs to sit above liquid on a removable grid or directly in the tray base. | |
| ☐ | Height | Check whether a low-profile tray is required for access, loading or clearance. | |
| ☐ | Location | Consider indoor/outdoor use, sunlight, traffic, floor condition and cleaning requirements. | |
| ☐ | Inspection | Check that the tray can be emptied, cleaned and inspected easily. |
Follow-up actions
| Action | Owner | Target date | Completed |
|---|---|---|---|
Disclaimer: This checklist is general guidance only and does not replace a site-specific risk assessment, COSHH assessment, safety data sheet review, competent advice, legal duties or emergency procedures.