(a) General. The topple test must be conducted for the qualification of all flexible IBC design types.

(b) Special preparation for the topple test. The flexible IBC must be filled to not less than 95 percent of its capacity and to its maximum net mass, with the load being evenly distributed.

(c) Test method. A flexible IBC must be toppled onto any part of its top upon a rigid, non-resilient, smooth, flat, and horizontal surface.

(d) Topple height. For all flexible IBCs, the topple height is specified as follows:

(1) Packing Group I: 1.8 m (5.9 feet).

(2) Packing Group II: 1.2 m (3.9 feet).

(3) Packing Group III: 0.8 m (2.6 feet).

(e) Criteria for passing the test. For all flexible IBCs, there may be no loss of contents. A slight discharge (e.g., from closures or stitch holes) upon impact is not considered to be a failure, provided no further leakage occurs.

[Amdt. 178-103, 59 FR 38074, July 26, 1994, as amended at 66 FR 45386, Aug. 28, 2001]