Patent Publication Number: US-9896244-B2

Title: Linkable workstations

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 61/991,161, filed May 9, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF INVENTION 
     Field of Invention 
     The present invention relates to workstations within which liquid, such as liquid leaking from containers, can be retained. 
     Description of Related Art 
     Liquid containers such as steel drums, plastic drums, and the like are frequently used in industrial settings. Such containers can contain liquid materials that should not be placed into sewage or drain systems, or be allowed to reach the soil. Thus, regulations have been adopted to contain liquids from drums in the event of a leak or catastrophic failure of the drum. 
     One method of reducing the likelihood that liquids will reach drains or otherwise contaminate a work area, includes placing the drums in a workstation (also known in the art as a low profile a spill pallet, a drum deck, etc.), which can collect a substantial volume of liquid material that may leak from the container. 
     Conventional workstations generally constitute independent structures, which are not fluidly linked together and thus define a predetermined volume for containing such liquids. Thus, there is no way to expand their capacity for containing liquids except, for example, if one were to somehow connect two units together using a hose extending between the two units as is known in the art. This conventional process of connecting two units using a hose is relatively complicated and requires that a hole be formed in a wall of each of the units, and requires connecting componentry, such as the hose to transport the liquid from one unit to another, and gaskets, damps, and the like for fluidly sealing the connection and the holes in the was of the units. This connecting componentry is auxiliary to the unit itself and thus represents an additional cost for a consumer. Furthermore, this connection type between two units is fairly cumbersome to arrange and does not prohibit movement of the two workstations relative to each other, which may be desired in certain circumstances. The hole in the side wall of the units that is necessary for fluidly connecting one unit to another must be plugged with further additional componentry when not fluidly connected to another unit, thus requiring additional parts and increasing cost of the unit. 
     Another complication is realized when multiple conventional workstations are not in use and are stacked one on top of another for storage or transportation. In this situation, the stacked units take up a relatively large amount of vertical space that is commensurate to the combined heights of the walls of the units, thus further increasing cost of transportation or storage. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In view of the foregoing, the present invention is directed toward workstations that can be linked while in use to form custom configurations that restrict movement of the linked workstations relative to each other. When linked, several configurations allow for the sharing of the liquid containing capacity between the linked workstations. The workstations can also have walls that are angled (i.e. not perpendicular) relative to the base, which allows several workstations to be stacked one upon another in a nested configuration, thereby occupying a compact vertical space compared to workstations that cannot be nested. 
     In one embodiment, the present subject matter provides a linkable workstation comprising a base portion configured to rest on a surface, and walls extending upwardly from the base portion and terminating at rim portions having downwardly extending skirts. The walls cooperate with the base portion to define a reservoir for liquids. The walls are angled with respect to the base portion so as to allow substantially identical workstations to be stacked one atop another in a nested configuration. The rim portions comprise a plurality of high rim portions and a plurality of low rim portions, the plurality of high rim portions being at an elevation that is higher than an elevation of the plurality of low rim portions. The workstation is linkable to another workstation that comprises a rim portion that is identical to one of the plurality of low rim portions or to one of the plurality of high rim portions, by overlapping one of the plurality of low rim portions or one of the plurality of high rim portions of the workstation with the rim portion of the other workstation having a different elevation. 
     In another embodiment, the present subject matter provides a method for containing liquid escaping from a container. The method comprises providing a first linkable workstation and a second linkable workstation, wherein each workstations comprises a base portion configured to rest on a surface, and walls extending upwardly from the base portion and terminating at rim portions having downwardly extending skirts. The walls cooperate with the base portion to define a reservoir for liquids. The rim portions comprise a plurality of high rim portions and a plurality of low rim portions, the plurality of high rim portions being at an elevation that is higher than an elevation of the plurality of low rim portions. The first workstation includes a depression defining an overflow channel at a top of a wall and laterally crossing one of the plurality of high rim portions of the first workstation. The second workstation includes a depression defining an overflow channel at a top of a wall and laterally crossing one of the plurality of low rim portion of the second workstation. The method includes placing a container having liquid escaping therefrom, over the reservoir of at least one of the first and second workstations. The first and second workstations are linked such that the overflow channel of the first workstation overlaps the overflow channel of the second workstation to thereby fluidly connect the reservoir of the first workstation with the reservoir of the second workstation. 
     The workstations and methods of connecting them as described herein, provide increased liquid containing capacity, i.e. “sump capacity”, to contain liquid leaking out of a container by sharing the sump capacity between linked workstations. For example, linked workstations with a combined sump capacity volume of 66 gallons or more (or less) can be provided, which allow the workstations to be utilized in volume-compliant applications. 
     The foregoing and other features of the invention are hereinafter more fully described and particularly pointed out in the claims, the following description setting forth in detail certain illustrative embodiments of the invention, these being indicative, however of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of the present invention may be employed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a container placed on a linkable workstation according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of a rectangular linkable workstation according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 3  is a top view of a substantially square linkable workstation according to another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a corner of a stack of three nested linkable workstations according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 5-8  are perspective views of several corners of linkable workstations according to embodiments of the invention. 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a gap in a skirt at a midpoint of a side wall of a rectangular linkable workstation according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 10 and 11  are perspective views of two identical rectangular linkable workstations being joined together at their respective side walls according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional view taken through two joined linkable workstations at an overflow channel. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a linked arrangement of rectangular and substantially square linkable workstations according to the invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of an overflow channel shut-off about to placed over an overflow channel of a linkable workstation according to the invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a cross-sectional view taken perpendicular to the side wall of a linkable workstation at the overflow channel with an overflow channel shut-off installed. 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a linkable workstation and a cover attached to the workstation according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a detailed view of engagement between a hook on a panel and a skirt on a linkable workstation according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 18  is a top cross-sectional view taken through the cover on the linkable workstation of  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional view of respective engagement between a hook and a ledge on a panel and a skirt and a rim of a linkable workstation according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 20  is a partial see-through side view of a linkable workstation having two covers attached thereto according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of a linkable workstation and shield according to an embodiment of the invention 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The present subject matter provides workstations for containing liquids leaking from damaged containers, such as metal drums or the like. The linkable workstations include a base that is configured to rest on a horizontal or substantially horizontal surface. The linkable workstations each include walls that extend upwardly from the base and terminate at rim portions having downwardly extending skirts. The walls cooperate with the base to define a reservoir/receptacle for liquid. 
     Although not restricted by the present subject matter, the workstations may be made of chemical-resistant polymeric material, such as polyethylene. Preferably, they have a one-wall construction, although a double- or multi-walled construction could be used. In one embodiment, the workstations are formed by injection molding, vacuum thermoforming or other plastic molding techniques. Other methods can be used to form the workstations as desired, such as stamping, forging, pressing, or die forming a metal to form the workstations. 
     In several embodiments, the workstations include at least two high rim portions and at least two low rim portions. As measured from the base portion, the high rim portions are at an elevation that is higher than an elevation of the low rim portions. In this way, a workstation is linkable with another workstation that has high or low rim portions, by overlapping rims on the respective workstations that have different elevations. For example, the high rim portion of a first workstation can overlap a low rim portion of a second workstation in order to link the first and second workstations. When linked, movement of the linked workstations relative to one another is inhibited. As used herein, “elevation” refers to the height or distance of a component as measure from the base portion. 
     The workstations can be fluidly connected when they are linked so that the sump capacity of several workstations can be shared between them. In several embodiments, the workstations each include an overflow channel. When linked, the overflow channels may overlap so that liquid in a first workstation can transfer/flow through an overflow channel to a second linked workstation. In this way, liquid being contained in the first workstation does not overflow out of the first workstation and into the environment, but rather flows into the reservoir of the second linked workstation. The overflow channels are designed so that no special tools or attachment components are needed to fluidly connect the reservoirs of the several workstations and the linking process is quick and simple. Additionally, the liquid connection between the linked workstations does not require the formation of holes is the was of the workstations, which normally requires additional attachments for fluidly sealing the hole when not in use for transferring liquids. 
     In several embodiments, the walls of the workstations are angled relative to the base, thereby defining a wall angle measured through the reservoir and between the base and the wall. In one embodiment, the wall angle is greater than 90 degrees such that workstations having identical, or substantially identical wall angles can be stacked in a nested configuration, one inside the other. This nesting of several workstations allows the stack to occupy less vertical space than if the workstations were unable to be nested, thus saving on transportation cost and offering space savings for storage. 
     The linkable workstations in accordance with the present subject matter will now be described in more detail and with reference to the various figures. 
     Workstations 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1-2 , an exemplary linkable workstation  10  includes a base portion  20 , which is shown for example to be generally rectangular in shape, and four walls  30  extending upwardly from edges of the base  20 . The base  20  is configured to be placed on a horizontal or substantially horizontal surface  2  (e.g. see  FIGS. 4, 10 ) such as a floor, and the base portion  20  cooperates with the walls  30  to define a reservoir  80  for liquid. In use, the workstation  10  may have a container  1 , for example a conventional 55-gallon steel drum, placed in the reservoir  80  as shown, or above the reservoir in order to collect liquid that may leak from the container  1 . This exemplary rectangular linkable workstation  10  is also referred to herein as a “two-drum” linkable workstation, wherein one drum or two drums may be placed on or above the base portion  20  of the workstation  10  as desired to collect liquid that may leak therefrom. 
     The base portion  20  may include a plurality of raised areas/portions  21  protruding upwardly from a land area  22  that is not raised. The raised portions  21  support the drum  1  above the land area  22 . In one embodiment, a bottom side of the land area  22 , and not a bottom side of the raised portions  21 , rests on the horizontal surface. It will be appreciated that the number and appearance (i.e. shape and size) of the raised areas  21  is not particularly limited by the present subject matter and can vary from that depicted. Furthermore, the raised areas  21  could be omitted, if desired. That is, the base portion  20  could be substantially planar and consist of only the land area  22 . The raised areas  21  may be included to improve strength and rigidity of the base portion  20  and also to elevate a container  1  above the land area  22 , and can thus retain incidental liquid leakage in a manner that does not contact the bottom of the container  1 . This configuration, wherein small amounts of liquid in the reservoir  80  do not contact the bottom of the container  1 , may be beneficial for inhibiting corrosion (e.g. rust) of the container  1 . 
     The walls  30  of the two-drum linkable workstation  10  can comprise two side walls  40  and two end walls  70 . Each of the side walls  40  extend upwardly from one of the long sides/edges of the rectangular base portion  20 , and each of the end walls  70  extend upwardly from one of the short edges of the rectangular base portion  20 . In one embodiment, the side walls  40  are about two times the length of the end walls  70 . 
     In several embodiments, the side walls  40  of the rectangular two-drum linkable workstations  10  each comprise a first offset portion  50  and a second offset portion  60 , wherein the first offset portion  50  is non-coplanar to the second offset portion  60 . This configuration of the workstation  10  is shown in detail in  FIGS. 2 and 9-11 , wherein a shoulder/step  42  transitions between the first offset portion  50  and the second offset portion  60 . In one aspect, the shoulder  42  is at the midpoint  41  of the side walls  40  between the two end walls  70 . It will be appreciated that location of the shoulder  42  at the midpoint  41 , while preferable, is not mandatory, and that the shoulder  42  could be located other than at the midpoint  41  of the side walls  40 . 
     In one aspect as shown in  FIG. 2 , the rectangular linkable workstation  10  includes braces  100  on either side of the shoulder  42  along each of the side walls  40 ; one brace  100  being positioned on each side wall  40  on the first offset portion  50 , and one brace  100  being positioned on each side wall  40  on the second offset portions  60 . The braces  100  improve the strength of the longer side walls  40  when liquid is collected in the reservoir  80 . This is particularly beneficial when the workstation  10  is linked to another workstation  10  along the side wall  40 , as the braces  100  provide additional strength to the opposite side wall  40  that is not linked to another workstation  10 . The braces  100  may be wedge shaped—tapering upward from a wider foundation toward a narrower top edge, with the narrow top edge of the wedge pointing upwardly away from the base  20  of the workstation  10 , and the wider foundation of the wedge being connected to the base portion  20  and the side walls  40  as shown. As will be understood, the wedge-shape of the braces  100  allows for compact nesting of multiple workstations  10 . 
     In another embodiment as depicted in  FIG. 3 , a workstation  210  comprises a base portion  220  that has a substantially square shape. In this embodiment, the walls  30  comprise four walls  230  that are substantially equal in length, wherein each wall  230  extends upwardly from an edge of the substantially square base portion  220 . This substantially square workstation  210  is also referred to herein as a “one-drum” linkable workstation, wherein one drum, like that depicted in  FIG. 1 , may be placed on or above the base portion  220  of the workstation  210  as desired for collecting fluid that may leak from the drum. 
     The one-drum linkable workstations  210  are similar in many respects to the two-drum workstations  10  discussed herein (e.g., they feature a base portion configured to rest on a substantially horizontal surface, side ails that extend upwardly at an angle to facilitate nesting, four different corners and rims/skirts), but they are generally square in shape as opposed to being rectangular, and thus do not have a shoulder or offset portions on a wall. As in the case of the two-drum linkable workstations, the one-drum linkable workstations have two high sides and two low sides and four different corners. 
     Like the two-drum workstations  10 , the walls  230  of the one-drum workstation  210  cooperate with the base portion  220  to define a reservoir  280  for containing liquid. Like in the two-drum workstations  10 , the base portion  220  of the one-drum workstation  210  may include raised portions  221  extending upwardly from a land area  222 . 
     As can be seen in various embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1-9 , the walls  30  of the two-drum linkable workstations  10  terminate at the top in rim portions  120 , and the walls  230  of the one-drum linkable workstations  210  terminate in a similar fashion at the top in rim portions  320 . The rim portions  120 ,  320  of the one- or two-drum workstations may be generally parallel to the respective base portions  20 ,  220 . Furthermore, the rims  120 ,  320  include respective skirts/flanges  160 ,  360 , that extend downwardly from the rims  120 ,  320  on a side of the rims  120 ,  320  opposite from the walls  30 ,  230 . The rims  120 ,  320  and respective skirts  160 ,  360  operate to provide increased strength and rigidity to the respective workstations  10 ,  210 . In one embodiment as shown in  FIG. 9 , the skirt  160  of a two-drum workstation  10  includes a gap  170  at the transition at the shoulder  42  between the first offset portion  50  and the second offset portion  60  of the side walls  40 . 
     In several embodiments, the rim portions  120 ,  320  are arranged and configured in a particular manner to thereby link several workstations together as described in more detail herein. 
     In this respect, the rim portions  120  of the two-drum linkable workstations  10  include at least two high rim portions  140  and at least two low rim portions  130 , wherein the two high rim portions  140  are at an elevation that is higher than an elevation of the two low rim portions  130 . In one embodiment, the high rim portions  140  are wider than the low rim portions  130  as depicted in detail in  FIGS. 2, 5, 6, and 9 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the two-drum workstations  10  include two second offset portions  60  and a high end wall  72 , which all terminate in high rim portions  140 . The two-drum workstations  10  also include two first offset portions  50  and a low end wall  71 , which all terminating in low rim portions  130 . As such, it will be understood that the two-drum linkable workstation shown in  FIG. 2  includes three low rim portions  130  and three high rim portions  40 . 
     It will also be understood that the second offset portions  60  are taller than the first offset portions  50  (i.e. the second offset portions  60  extend upwardly from the base portion  20  a greater distance than the first offset portions  50 ), and that the high end wall  72  is taller than the low end wall  71  (i.e. the high end wall  72  extend upwardly from the base portion  20  a greater distance than the low end wall  71 ). 
     In one aspect, the several high rim portions  140  associated with either the high end wall  72  or the two second offset portions  60 , are all at the same elevation; and the several low rim portions  130  associated with either the low end wall  71  or the two first offset portions  50 , are all at the same elevation. 
     In a similar manner as the two-drum workstations  10 , the rim portions  320  of the one-drum linkable workstations  210  include at least two high rim portions  340  and at least two low rim portions  330 , wherein the two high rim portions  340  are at an elevation that is higher than an elevation of the two low rim portions  330 . In one embodiment, the high rim portions  340  are wider than the low rim portions  330  as depicted in  FIGS. 3, 6 , and  8 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , the one-drum workstations  210  include two high walls  270  each terminating in high rim portions  340 , and two low walls  240  each terminating in low rim portions  330 . It will be understood that the high walls  270  are taller than the low walls  240  (i.e. the high walls  270  extend upwardly from the base portion  220  a greater distance than the low walls  240 ). In one aspect, the several high rim portions  340  associated with high walls  270  are all at the same elevation; and the several low rim portions  330  associated with low walls  240  are all at the same elevation. 
     In several embodiments, the linkable workstations  10 ,  210  can have four distinct corners based on the relative elevations of the rims and the heights of the walls. For example,  FIGS. 2 and 4-7  show four corners (indicated A, B, C, and D) of the two-drum linkable workstations  10 .  FIGS. 3, 4, and 6-8  show four corners (indicated A, C, D and E) of the one-drum linkable workstations  210 . Each corner A, B, C, D, and E can have a slightly different configuration as shown. 
     Corner A, which may be present on the one- or two-drum linkable workstations, is shown in  FIGS. 2-4 . As depicted in  FIG. 4 , and depending on the type of workstation that is used, several rectangular workstations,  10 A,  10 B, and  10 C can be stacked in a nested configuration, wherein the stack  110  of nested workstations includes a top workstation  10 C nested inside a middle workstation  10 B, which is nested inside a bottom workstation  10 A. As shown, the stack  110  of workstations is resting on a horizontal or substantially horizontal surface  2 . Corner A on each workstation is defined by the convergence of two walls, i.e. low end wall  71  and the first offset portion  50  of a side wall, along with their corresponding low rim portions  130 ,  130  and skirts  160 ,  160 . As shown, the low rim portions  130 ,  130  on each side of corner A are at the same elevation and thus form a continuous rim and skirt around corner A. 
     Similarly, several substantially square one-drum workstations  310 A,  310 B, and  310 C can be stacked in a nested configuration as depicted in  FIG. 4 . The stack  310  of one-drum linkable workstations includes a top workstation  310 C nested inside a middle workstation  310 B, which is nested inside a bottom workstation  310 A. As shown, corner A on each workstation is defined by the convergence of two walls, i.e. two low walls  240 ,  240  along with their corresponding low rim portions  330 ,  330  and skirts  360 ,  360 . As shown, the low rim portions  330 ,  330  on each side of corner A are at the same elevation and thus form a continuous rim and skirt around corner A. In  FIG. 4 , the rim is continuous and flat around corner A, and makes no height transition as it proceeds around corner A. 
     Corner B, which may be present on the two-drum linkable workstations  10 , is shown  FIGS. 2 and 5 . As seen in  FIG. 5 , corner B is defined by the convergence of two walls, i.e. low end wall  71  with its corresponding low rim portion  130  and skirt  160 , and the second offset portion  60  of a side wall with its corresponding high rim portion  140  and skirt  160 . As shown, the low rim portion  130  on one side of corner B is at a different elevation than the high rim portion  140  on the other side of corner B. That is, the rims  130 ,  140 , while generally parallel to the base, are in different planes. As such, corner B includes a notch between rim  130  and rim  140 , and the respective skirts  160 ,  160  are separated from each other and not continuous around corner B. 
     Corner C, which may be present on the one or two-drum linkable workstations, is shown in  FIGS. 2, 3, and 6 . As depicted in detail in  FIG. 6 , corner C is defined by the convergence of two walls. For two-drum workstations, corner C is defined by the convergence of the first offset portion  50  of a side wall and its corresponding low rim portion  130  and skirt  160 , and the high end wall  72  and its corresponding high rim portion  140  and skirt  160 . As shown, the low rim portion  130  on one side of corner C is at a different elevation than the high rim portion  140  on the other side of corner C. As such, corner C includes a notch between rim  130  and rim  140 , and the respective skirts  160 ,  160  are separated from each other and not continuous around corner C. 
     For one-drum workstations, corner C is defined by the convergence of a low wall  240  and its corresponding low rim portion  330  and skirt  360 , and high wall  270  and its corresponding high rim portion  340  and skirt  360 . As shown, the low rim portion  330  on one side of corner C is at a different elevation than the high rim portion  340  on the other side of corner C. That is, the rims  330 ,  340 , while generally parallel to the base, are in different planes. As such, corner C includes a notch between rim  330  and rim  340 , and the respective skirts  360 ,  360  are separated from each other and not continuous around corner C. 
     Corner D, which may be present on the one or two-drum linkable workstations, is shown in  FIGS. 2, 3, and 7 . As depicted in detail in  FIG. 7 , corner D is defined by the convergence of two walls. For two-drum workstations, corner is defined by the convergence of the high end wall  72  and its corresponding high rim portion  140  and skirt  160 , and the second offset portion  60  of a side wall and its corresponding high rim portion  140  and skirt  160 . As shown, the high rim portions  140 ,  140  on each side of corner D are at the same elevation. That is, the rims  140 ,  140 , although not continuous and connected around the corner D, are in the same plane parallel to the base portion. However, corner D includes a notch between the two high rim portions  140 ,  140  and the respective skirts  160 ,  160  are separated from each other and not continuous around corner D. 
     For one-drum workstations, corner D is defined by the convergence of two high walls  270 ,  270  and their corresponding high rim portions  340 ,  340  and skirts  360 ,  360 . As shown, the high rim portions  340 ,  340  on either side of corner C are at the same elevation. However, corner D includes a notch between the two high rim portions  340 ,  340  and the respective skirts  360 ,  360  are separated from each other and not continuous around corner D. 
     Corner E, which may be present on the one-drum linkable workstations, is shown in  FIGS. 3 and 8 . Corner E is a mirror image of corner B depicted in  FIG. 5 . As seen in detail in  FIG. 8 , corner E is defined by the convergence of two walls, i.e. a low wall  240  with its corresponding low rim portion  330  and skirt  360 , and a high wall  270  with its corresponding high rim portion  340  and skirt  360 . As shown the low rim portion  330  on one side of corner E is at a different elevation than the high rim portion  340  on the other side of corner E. As such, corner E includes a notch between rim  330  and rim  340 , and the respective skirts  360 ,  360  are separated from each other and not continuous around corner E. 
     In one embodiment, all the low rim portions  130 ,  330  on a workstation are at the same elevation, all the high rim portions  140 ,  340  are at the same elevation, and the low rim portions are lower in height/elevation than the high rim portions. In one aspect, the low rim portions  130 ,  330  are about ⅛ of an inch lower than the high rim portions  140 ,  340 , respectively, which may also be about the thickness of the material forming the workstations. It will be appreciated that these dimensions can be adjusted, as need be, to accommodate workstations having a different thickness. 
     In one aspect, the high rim portions  140 ,  340  are wider than the respective low rim portions  130 ,  330 . The high rim portions  140 ,  340  are wider so that they can overlap the respective low rim portions  130 ,  330  when workstations are linked together. 
     Nesting of Workstations 
     In several embodiments, the walls  30  extend upwardly from edges of the base portion  20  and form an angle  90  (“wall angle”) so as to facilitate nesting of identical workstations, one stacked within another. To enable nesting, the wall angle  90  (see  FIG. 1 ) between the base  20  and the walls  30  as measured through the reservoir  80 , may be greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. Stacking of several workstations is depicted in  FIG. 4 , wherein the stack  110 ,  310  of nested workstations includes a bottom workstation  10 A,  210 A, a middle workstation  10 B,  210 B, and a top workstation  10 C,  210 C. 
     In one aspect, wherein the nested stack includes a bottom workstation and a top workstation, the base portion and at least a portion of the walls of the top workstation sit inside the reservoir of the bottom workstation. In another aspect, the exterior of the base of the top workstation contacts the interior of the base of the bottom workstation when in a stacked and nested configuration. Because the linkable workstations can be stacked in a nested configuration, the stack  110 ,  310  occupies less vertical space than a conventional stack of workstations having a comparable sump capacity and which cannot be nested. 
     It will be appreciated that substantially more than two of the two-drum linkable workstations can be nested one atop another for shipping and storage. Nested workstations according to the invention take up approximately one-third as much vertical space as conventional spill pallets known the art. As will be understood and as seen in  FIG. 4 , a stack  110 ,  310  of workstations occupies a vertical height defined by the vertical height of the walls, rim, and skirt of a bottom workstation  10 A,  210 A, plus the height of the rim and skirt of any additional workstation stacked thereon. 
     Linking of Workstations 
     Generally, two workstations (whether they are rectangular workstations  10 , substantially square workstations  210 , or a combination thereof) may be linked by overlapping a high rim portions  140  or  340  of one workstation over a low rim portion  130  or  330  of another workstation. 
     Linking of workstations in this way can be accomplished because the high rim portions  140 ,  340  are higher than the low rim portions  130 ,  330 , and because the high rim portions are wider than the low rim portions. This allows a high rim portion on a first workstation to overlap the low ram portion on a second workstation. Furthermore, the skirt associated with the high rim portion of the first workstation engages an inner surface  31  of a wall  30  on the second workstation. Such linking of two workstations secures the linked workstations to inhibit horizontal movement of the linked workstations relative to each other. 
     In one embodiment, the high rim portions and associated skirts of the first workstation snuggly engage over the low rim portions and associated skirts of the second workstation. This snug connection, as opposed to simply laying the high rim portion loosely on top of the low rim portion, may require additional force to disengage the connection than merely lifting the first workstation off the second workstation. Such a snug connection is commonly referred to as a “snap on” type connection. 
     In a particular embodiment, two rectangular linkable workstations  10 A,  10 B can be linked together along respective side walls  40  as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 . FIG.  10  shows two rectangular workstations  10 A,  10 B in the process of being linked along their respective side walls on a horizontal or substantially horizontal surface  2 , such as a floor.  FIG. 11  shows a detail portion of two rectangular workstations  10 A,  10 B fully linked along their respective side walls. 
     The two rectangular linkable workstations  10 A,  10 B may be joined by bringing together and pivoting the workstations at their midpoints  41  in a scissoring manner, so that the high rim portion  140  of workstation  10 A can be positioned to overlap the corresponding low rim portion  130  of workstation  10 B, and the high rim portion  140  of workstation  10 B can at the same time be positioned to overlap the corresponding low rim portion  130  of workstation  10 A in order to link the two workstations as shown in  FIG. 11 . 
     The linking of the two rectangular workstations  10 A,  10 B in this manner is facilitated by having i) the first  50  and second  60  offset portions of the side walls  40  being non-coplanar, ii) the high rim portions  140  being higher than the low rim portions  130 , iii) the high rim portions  140  being wider than the low rim portions  130 , and iv) the skirt  160  on the side walls including the gap  170  between the first  50  and second  60  offset portions at the midpoint  41 . 
     The feature of i) the first  50  and second  60  offset portions being non-coplanar, allows the high rim portion  140  of the second offset portion  60  of workstation  10 A to extend toward workstation  10 B in order to overlap the low rim portion  130  of the first offset portion  50  of workstation  10 B. At the same time, the high rim portion  140  of the second offset portion  60  of workstation  10 B can extend toward workstation  10 A to overlap the low rim portion  130  of the first offset portion  50  of workstation  10 A. 
     The feature of ii) the high rim portions  140  being higher than the low rim portions  130 , allows the high rim portion  140  of the second offset portion  60  of workstation  10 A to be positioned above to overlap the low rim portion  130  of the first offset portion  50  of workstation  103 . At the same time, the high rim portion  140  of the second offset portion  60  of workstation  10 B can be positioned above to overlap the low rim portion  130  of the first offset portion  50  of workstation  10 A. 
     The feature of iii) the high rim portions  140  being wider than the low rim portions  130 , allows the skirt  160  on the high rim portions  140  of the second offset portion  60  of workstation  10 A to be moved over the low rim portion  130  of workstation  103  to a position inside the reservoir  80  of workstation  103  and optionally in contact with an inner surface  31  of a wall  30  of workstation  103 . At the same time, the skirt  160  on the high rim portions  140  of the second offset portion  60  of workstation  10 B can be moved over the low rim portion  130  of workstation  10 A to a position inside the reservoir  80  of workstation  103  and optionally in contact with the inner surface  31  of a wall  30  of workstation  10 A. Linking of workstations  10 A,  103  in this manner may inhibit movement of the workstations  10 A,  103  relative to each other a horizontal direction. 
     The feature of iv) the skirt  160  on the side walls including the gap  170  between the first  50  and second  60  offset portions at the midpoint  41 , allows the two workstations  10 A,  10 B to be brought together and mated at the gaps  170 . The two workstations can be brought together at the gaps  170  at an angle relative to each other. The two workstations  10   a ,  10 B can then be counter rotated at the gaps  170  so that the workstations brought into plane with each other. Pivoting the two workstations in this manner moves the base  20  of each workstation to be in the same plane and links the workstations by overlapping respective rims and skirts of the two workstations. 
     In another embodiment, two rectangular linkable workstations  10  can also be linked by mating an end wall  70  of one to end wall  70  of another (e.g. see  FIG. 13 ), wherein the low end wall  71  of one rectangular workstation faces the high end wall  72  of a linked rectangular workstation and the high rim portion  140  of the high end wall  72  overlaps the low rim portion  130  of the low end wall  71 . 
     In another embodiment, two rectangular linkable workstations  10  can also be linked by mating an end wall  70  of one to aside wall  40  of another (e.g. see  FIG. 13 ), wherein the low end wall  71  of one rectangular workstation links with the second offset portion  60  of the side wall  40  of a linked rectangular workstation, and the high rim portion  140  of second offset portion  60  overlaps the low rim portion  130  of the low end wall  71 . Alternatively, the high end wall  72  of one rectangular workstation can link with the first offset portion  50  of the side wall  40  of a linked rectangular workstation, and the high rim portion  140  of the high end wall  72  overlaps the low rim portion  130  of the first offset portion  50 . 
     In another embodiment, substantially square workstations  210  are linked (e.g. see  FIG. 13 ), wherein a low wall  240  of one workstation faces a high wall  270  of another workstation, and the high rim portion  340  of the high wall  270  overlaps the low rim portion  330  of the low wall  240 . 
     It will be appreciated that other arrangements, which include different numbers of two-drum and/or one-drum linkable workstations, could be formed, if desired. For example, a one-drum linkable workstation  210  can be joined to a two-drum linkable workstation  10  (e.g. see  FIG. 13 ), wherein a high rim portion  340  and associated skirt  360  of a high wall  270  of the one-drum linkable workstation  210  can be snapped over a low rim portion  130  and associated skirt  160  of the low end wall  71  or first offset portions  50  of the two-drum workstation  10 . Alternatively, a high rim portion  140  and associated skirt  160  of a high end wall  72  or second offset portions  60  of a two-drum workstation  10  can be positioned to overlap a lower rim portion  330  and associated skirt  360  of a low wall  240  of a one-drum workstation  210 . 
       FIG. 13  shows an arrangement  500  that includes seven two-drum linkable workstations  10  and four one-drum linkable workstations  210  arranged and linked in a large work group. The sump capacity of the several workstations in the arrangement may be shared or isolated as desired, as explained in more detail herein. 
     In several embodiments in accordance with the present subject matter, the reservoirs of two or more linkable workstations can be fluidly connected so that the sump capacity of linked workstations can be shared in order to contain liquids that may leak from a drum residing in or above one of the workstations. In this regard, workstations can include overflow channels (also sometimes referred to as “sluiceways”). When two or more workstations are linked, the overflow channels in respective workstations can be aligned and overlapped during linking to thereby fluidly connecting the reservoirs of the linked workstations. 
     In several embodiments, the linkable workstations include at least one depression in a rim portion that defines at least one overflow channel. The linkable workstations can include one or more overflow channels. In one embodiment, a two-drum linkable workstation includes two overflow channels. In another embodiment, a one-drum linkable workstation includes one overflow channel. In other embodiments, one or less overflow channels are provided in the workstations. 
     In accordance with several embodiments, overflow channels are located at a top of a wall of the workstations, and laterally cross a rim portion. Exemplary overflow channels are shown for example in  FIGS. 2, 3, 10-12, 14, and 15 . 
     Generally, as best seen in  FIG. 14 , a rim portion  120  can include a depression  410 , which defines an overflow channel  400 . The overflow channel  400  can run laterally across the rim portion  120  from the reservoir  80  to outside the reservoir. In several embodiments, a top surface of the depression  410  is lower than a top surface of all rim portions  120 . As such, as liquid levels rise in the reservoir, liquid can escape first from the reservoir  80  through the overflow channel  400 , rather than over the top of the rim portions  120 . 
     Overflow channels  400  can be formed in low rim portions  130 ,  330  and in high rim portions  140 ,  340  in either one- or two-drum workstations. As best seen in  FIGS. 2, 10-12 , an exemplary two-drum workstation  10  includes an overflow channel  401  in a high rim portion  140  and an overflow channel  402  in a low rim portion  130 . As shown, the two overflow channels  401 ,  402  are both located on the same wall. The present subject matter includes overflow channels in more than one wall; for example in one or more side walls and in one or more end walls as desired. 
     In one aspect, an upper surface of both overflow channels  401 ,  402  are lower than the upper surface of all low rim portions  130 ,  330  on a one-drum  210  or two-drum  10  workstation. As such, liquid building up in the reservoir can escape first from the reservoir  80 ,  280  through the overflow channels  401 ,  402  rather than over the top of the low rim portions  130 ,  330 . 
       FIGS. 2, 10 and 11  show two-drum m workstations  10  having two overflow channels  401 ,  402 . As seen, one overflow channel  401  is provided at the top of the second offset portion  60  of a side wall  40 , and laterally crosses the associated high rim portion  140 . Another overflow channel  402  is provided at the top of the first offset portion  50  of a side wall  40 , and laterally crosses the associated low rim portion  130 . In one embodiment, overflow channel  401  is wider than overflow channel  402  and thus can overlap an overflow channel  402  on a linked workstation. 
       FIG. 3  shows a similar overflow channel  400  in a one-drum workstation  210 . As seen, the overflow channel  401  is provided at the top of a high wall  270 , and laterally crosses the associated high rim portion  340 . As will be appreciated, the one-drum workstation  210  can alternatively or additionally include an overflow channel  402  provided at the top of a low wall  240 , and laterally crossing an associated low rim portion  330 . 
     As can be seen in  FIGS. 10-12 , when two workstations  10 A,  10 B are linked, the overflow channel  401  in a high rim portion  140  of workstation  10 A is aligned and overlaps the overflow channel  402  in a low rim portion  130  of workstation  10 B, and the overflow channel  401  in a high rim portion  140  of workstation  10 B is aligned and overlaps the overflow channel  402  in a low rim portion  130  of workstation  10 A. In this way, two overflow channels  400  are provided to fluidly link the reservoirs of workstations  10 A and  10 B ( FIG. 11 ). 
       FIG. 12  is a detailed portion of  FIG. 11  inside hashed circle  12 , and is a section view taken at overlapping overflow channels  401 ,  402  along the joint between the two linked workstations  10 A,  10 B. As seen, the depression  410  in the high rim portion  140  of workstation  10 A forms overflow channel  401 . The depression  410  in the low rim portion  130  of workstation  10 B forms overflow channel  402 . When the two workstations  10 A and  10 B are linked, the overflow channel  401  of workstation  10 A overlaps overflow channel  402  of workstation  103 . As such, the reservoirs of the two workstations are fluidly connected. Accordingly, as liquid levels rise in either reservoir, liquid can first flow through the overflow channel  401  from one reservoir to the other, rather than over the top of a rim portion  120  of the workstations. 
     That is, accumulating in the reservoir of one linkable workstation can flow into the reservoir of the adjacent, linked workstation via the overflow channel, thereby effectively adding to the liquid-containment capacity of the workstation in which a leaking drum is contained. 
     It will be understood that overflow channels are not limited to being on a single side of a one or two-drum workstation, but can be formed at any desired location on the workstations. Additionally, any number of overflow channels, for example two or more, can be provided on the workstations to allow for custom arrangements of two or more workstations with fluidly connected reservoirs/receptacles. 
     In some instances, it may be desirable to close off an overflow channel(s) to fluidly isolate the reservoir of a workstation, or a reservoir of one workstation from the reservoir of its adjacent, linked workstation. 
     In one embodiment, workstations include an overflow channel cover or overflow shut-off  450 , depicted for example in  FIGS. 14 and 15 . The shut-off  450  may be positioned relative to the workstation to selectively restrict flow of liquid through an overflow channel  400 . For example, the overflow shut-off  450  may be selectively inserted into an overflow channel  400  to close off the overflow channel. In one embodiment, the overflow channel cover  450  includes a bead  480 , which may be generally round in cross section, and the depression  410  in the rim  120  can include a corresponding trough  420 . The trough  420  can have a corresponding size and shape with respect to the bead  480  to thereby selectively engage the bead  480  to securely hold the shut-off  450  in the overflow channel  400 . This engagement between the trough  420  and bead  480  may effectively block the flow of liquid through the overflow channel  400 . The engagement between the trough  420  and bead  480  may comprise a snug fit, such as a snap on type connection wherein removal of the overflow channel cover  450  from the overflow channel  400  requires more effort than simply lifting the overflow channel cover. 
     The overflow channel cover  450  can include an inner wall  460  and an outer wall  470 . In one embodiment, when the overflow shut-off  450  is inserted in the overflow channel  400 , wherein the trough  420  engages the bead  480 , the inner wall  460  of the shut-off  450  contacts an inner surface  31  of a wall  30  of the workstation; and the outer wall  470  contacts an outer surface  161  of a skirt  160  of the workstation. 
     As shown  FIG. 15 , which is a section view taken through an overflow channel  400  on which a shut-off  450  has been installed, the shut-off  450  seals the overflow channel  400  by snapping in place, wherein the bead  480  is fittingly engaged in the trough  420 . That is, the round bead  480  of the shut-off  450  snaps into the round trough  420  formed in the depression  410  in the rim. This engagement between the cover  450  and the overflow channel  400  can seal the overflow channel and inhibit liquid that is accumulating in the reservoir from flowing through the overflow channel. 
     Other types of sealing mechanisms can be used to seal off the overflow channels, including angled type interference fittings between linked workstations, gaskets, etc. Furthermore, overflow channels can optionally be permanently sealed off using adhesives, if desired. As will be understood, by using the overflow channel cut-off  450 , the overflow channels  400  can be sealed quickly and easily and without the use of tools. 
     It will be will also appreciated that overflow shut-offs  450  can be configured to seal overflow channels  401  that laterally cross high rim portions  140 , and also to seal overflow channels  402  that laterally cross low rim portions  130 . This allows for one configuration of the shut-off  450  to have the ability to seal all overflow channels. The present subject matter provides for multiple configurations of linked workstations and virtually endless arrangements of linked workstations with shared or isolated reservoirs. 
     Various methods for containing liquid escaping from a container are provided herein. One preferred method utilizes a first linkable workstation and a second linkable workstation, each comprising a base portion configured to rest on a surface, and walls extending upwardly from the base portion and terminating at rim portions having downwardly extending skirts. 
     The walls cooperate with the base portion to define a reservoir for liquids. The rim portions comprise a plurality of high rim portions and a plurality of low rim portions. The plurality of high rim portions are at an elevation that is higher than an elevation of the plurality of low rim portions. 
     The first workstation includes a depression defining an overflow channel at a top of a wall and laterally crossing one of the plurality of high rim portions of the first workstation. The second workstation includes a depression defining an overflow channel at a top of a wall and laterally crossing one of the plurality of low rim portions of the second workstation. 
     The one or two-drum linkable workstations as shown in the various figures can be used in the method and the first and second workstations can comprise more overflow channels as desired. Additionally, more workstations can be linked to the first and second workstations as desired to from an arrangement of workstations having shared or isolated sump capacities as desired. 
     The method includes placing a container, having liquid escaping therefrom, over the reservoir of at least one of the first and second workstations. The first and second workstations are linked such that the overflow channel of the first workstation overlaps the overflow channel of the second workstation to thereby fluidly connect the reservoir of the first workstation with the reservoir of the second workstation. 
     In a preferred embodiment, a two-drum linkable workstation  10  is about 32″ wide and 57″ long and has a depth measured at a low rim portion of about 6″, and can accommodate two drums, which are typically cylindrical and about 26″ in diameter at the base. When two two-drum linkable workstations  10  are linked to share their sump capacities as described above, their combined sump capacity may be about 66 gallons or more, which allows two two-drum linkable workstations in a linked arrangement to satisfy various compliance regulations for the storage of 55-gallon standard drums. As will be understood, the various dimensions of width, length, and height can be adjusted relative to each other, while maintaining the same sump capacity of about 66 gallons or more. For example, the length of the workstation  10  can be shortened and the width can be increased while maintaining the same sump capacity. 
     A one-drum linkable workstation may have a sump volume capacity of about 19 gallons. It will be appreciated that the dimensions, volumes and linking arrangements can be varied within the scope of the invention. The one- or two-drum linkable workstations are unique because they can have low wall heights, which may be desirable in some circumstances, yet the sump capacity of the workstations can be increased by fluidly linking them with other workstations. 
     Furthermore, linkable workstations as described herein can be configured to provide customized spill protection in work areas, without requiring a large space for storage of multiple workstations. Additional advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and illustrative examples shown and described herein. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. 
     Covers and Shields 
     In accordance with the present subject mater, the workstations can include one or more attachments that can attach to the workstation to modify or enhance its configuration or functions. The attachments may connect with the workstation at the rim and skirt, or at the overflow channel in a similar way to the overflow channel cover. 
     In several embodiments, the linkable workstations include one or more covers or shields removably attached to the workstation for containing, blocking, or otherwise segregating the reservoir and/or a drum in the reservoir from the environment. The covers and shields can be used a splash guard or vapor guard to help contain liquid or evaporating liquid in the reservoir of the workstation. The covers and shields can be made from the same or different material as the workstations and can be made by the same or different forming processes. 
     In one embodiment, one or more covers are attached to the workstation, for example as depicted in  FIGS. 16-20 . In accordance with the present subject matter and as seen in  FIG. 16 , a cover  510  can include two side panels  520 , an end panel  530 , and a top panel  540 . It will be understood that the cover  510  can include more or less panels as desired, such as not including a top panel  540  for example. 
     As shown in  FIG. 20 , the workstation  10  can include a first cover  570  and a second cover  580  attached thereto that substantially enclose a drum  1  in an interior  590  collectively defined by the workstation  10 , the first cover  570 , and the second cover  580 . The first cover  570  and second cover  580  are shown to generally meet at the midpoint  41  of the workstation  10 , however this is not required and the covers  580 ,  590  can meet at other than the midpoint  41  or not meet. 
     In another embodiment, the workstation can include one or more shields or splash guards attached thereto, for example as depicted in  FIG. 21 . As seen in  FIG. 21 , a shield  600  comprising a bendable panel  610  is bent as depicted by the arrow at approximately 90 degrees and attached to the workstation  10 . 
     Attachment mechanisms used to connect a shield  600  or a cover  510  to a workstation can comprise various configurations, and in one embodiment in accordance with the present subject matter, the covers and shields include hooks  550  formed on the bottom edges of various panels, and corresponding ledges  560  on inside surfaces of the panels. The hooks  550  and ledges  560  cooperate to engage corresponding rims  120  and skirts  160  on the workstation  10  in order to attach thereto. As shown, the hooks  550  may comprise a bend in the bottom edge of the panels, and the ledges  560  may comprise an indentation  561  in the panels. 
     Exemplary engagement between a hook  550  (from a cover  510  or shield  600 ) and the skirt  160  on a workstation  10  can be seen in detail in  FIG. 17 , wherein the arrow indicates movement of the hook  550  to engage the skirt  160 .  FIG. 19  depicts exemplary engagement between a hook  550  and a ledge  560  (from a cover  510  or shield  600 ) with a skirt  160  and a rim  120  of a workstation, wherein the hook  550  generally engages the skirt  160  by catching the skirt  160 , and the ledge  560  generally engages the rim  120  by sitting on the rim  120 . The mutual engagement between the hook  550  and the skirt  160  and between the ledge  560  and the rim  120  can operate to secure the cover  510  or shield  600  to the workstation. In one embodiment, the hooks  550  and ledges  560  are positioned relative to each other to tightly engage, or “clip” onto, the rims  120  and skirts  160  of the workstation. 
     As shown in  FIG. 18 , the cover  510  may include a hook  550  and a corresponding ledge  560  on each of the side panels  520  and end panel  530  to engage two side walls  40  and the end wall  70 , respectively, or the workstation. As shown in  FIG. 21 , the shield  600  may include a hook  550  and a corresponding ledge  560  on each end of the bendable panel  610  to engage one or two walls of the workstation. For example, when the panel  610  is bent as shown in  FIG. 21 , one hook  550  and the corresponding ledge  560  may engage the rim and skirt of a side wall  40 , and the other hook  550  and the corresponding ledge  560  may engage the rim and skirt of the end wall  70  as shown. However, when the panel  610  is not bent, the hooks  550  and ledges  560  may engage the rim and skirt along the full length of the side wall  40 . 
     In accordance with one embodiment, and as shown in  FIG. 18 , the hooks  550  of the cover  510  may not extend the full lengths of the side panels  520  or the end panel  530 . Rather, a discontinuity  551  between the hooks  550  may exist at the corners where the side panels  520  meet the end panel  530 . As shown in  FIG. 16 , the ledge  560  and the indentation  561  also do not extend a full length of the side panels  520 . Although not shown, the same may be true for the end panel  530 . Similarly, as shown in  FIG. 21 , the hooks  550  of the shield  600  do not extend the full length of the bendable panel  610 , but include a discontinuity  551  between the two hooks  550  where the bendable panel  610  may be bent. Also, the ledges  560  to not extend the full length of the bendable panel  610 . 
     Many other benefits will no doubt become apparent from future application and development of this technology. 
     All patents, applications, standards, and articles noted herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     The present subject matter includes all operable combinations of features and aspects described herein. Thus, for example if one feature is described in association with an embodiment and another feature is described in association with another embodiment, it will be understood that the present subject matter includes embodiments having a combination of these features. 
     As described hereinabove, the present subject matter solves many problems associated with previous strategies, systems and/or devices. However, it will be appreciated that various changes in the details, materials and arrangements of components, which have been herein described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of the present subject matter, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the principle and scopes of the claimed subject matter, as expressed in the appended claims.