If inspection reveals a container with corrosion and a damaged seal, what is the appropriate action?

• A. Re-seal with tape and reuse.
• B. Isolate the item, tag it, and remove from service.
• C. Leave it in place and continue to use.
• D. Move it to a different area without tagging.

Answer: (B)

Any sign of corrosion and a damaged seal means the container’s containment is no longer reliable. Corrosion suggests the material has degraded, which can weaken the container and introduce contaminants or reactive byproducts. A damaged seal breaks the barrier that keeps moisture, air, and contaminants out and contents in, increasing the risk of deterioration, leakage, or an uncontrolled reaction. Because of that, the correct action is to isolate the item so it can’t be handled or deployed, tag it to indicate a hold and the reason, and remove it from service until it’s evaluated by qualified personnel. Do not reseal with tape or reuse, do not leave it in place to be used, and do not move it without tagging. Place it in a designated quarantine area if possible and notify supervision or the explosives safety officer to determine the appropriate disposition, such as disposal or certified reevaluation.