Comparative tests were carried out between these drum pallets and standard 2-way wooden pallets. 3 levels of empty steel drums were stored on 4 pallets (1 pallet on the top) and were ignited by a small amount of fuel. Once the fuel had burnt out the wooden pallets failed to sustain the fire but after 7 ½ minutes the entire stack of plastic pallets were involved (see video) and the stack collapsed.

As you can see from the video, in a real warehouse if plastic pallets are used and a fire starts you have less than 7½ minutes to discover the fire and evacuate.  Combine this with an ignition time (see ignition test video) of less than 30 seconds from a cigarette lighter and you can imagine how serious the risk  is.  In fact, the risk is so great that many insurers will substantially increase or refuse to cover premises where plastic pallets are used or stored.

These tests were sponsored by the
Association of British Insurers (ABI).