Handling Cable Drums

• Check the drum weight marked on the flange before selecting the handling method.
• Use mechanical handling for all drums exceeding safe manual rolling limits.
• Store drums upright on level ground with chocks or cradles to prevent rolling.
• Lift large drums by the axle hole using a rated bar and appropriate lifting equipment.
• Set up cable drum jacks on firm, level ground before raising the drum.
• Apply the drum brake before pulling cable to prevent uncontrolled spinning.
• Keep hands and feet clear of the drum flange edges during rolling.
• Use a drum trailer for transporting large drums across the site.
• Brief the team on the handling method and hazards before moving each drum.
• Secure drums on delivery vehicles with straps and chocks during transport.

• DON'T attempt to manually roll drums that exceed safe handling capacity.
• DON'T place hands or fingers between the drum flange and the ground surface.
• DON'T store drums on sloping ground without positive chocking on both sides.
• DON'T lift drums by the cable or by the outer flange edge.
• DON'T leave drums balanced on jacks unattended without securing them.
• DON'T pull cable from a drum without the brake applied to control spin.
• DON'T roll drums toward other workers, vehicles, or excavation edges.
• DON'T lay large drums flat for storage; they roll unexpectedly when disturbed.
• DON'T stack cable drums on top of each other without proper racking.
• DON'T underestimate drum weight; always check the marking before handling.

See also: Manual Handling Awareness | Cable Pulling Safety