Storage of Agricultural Fuel Oil on Farms in England and Wales, Storage of Agricultural Fuel Oil on Farms in Northern Ireland, Frequently Asked Questions on Oil Storage Regulations, Tonnes of net CO2 saved across our transport fleet, Copyright 2022 Crown Oil Ltd Company Reg No: 01315556, Oil Tank Regulations Fuel and Oil Storage Guide, Synthetic oils e.g. 0000093002 00000 n
Fixed tanks must be bunded. [h3V3\. Wed like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services. You do not need to follow the commercial rules if you store any of the following substances: These substances are either not classed as oil or are impractical to provide secondary containment for. You cannot use a drip tray as secondary containment for an oil storage tank. trailer
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This could be something that cuts off the flow of oil to the tank when its full, or an alarm or fixed tank probe that sends a signal to alert the person filling the tank when the tank is full. If you are installing or managing an oil storage tank on commercial premises in Scotland or Northern Ireland, please make sure that you research the relevant regulations for your area and follow them over any conflicting advice given in this article. if you have four 205 litre oil drums sitting on a drip tray, that drip tray needs to have a capacity of 205 litres in order to qualify as a suitable secondary containment for them. Insulating oils (typically used as electrical insulators and coolants). (a) the pipe must be fitted with a tap or valve at the delivery end which closes automatically when not in use; (b) the tap or valve must not be capable of being fixed in the open position unless the pipe is fitted with an automatic shut off device; (c) the pipe must be enclosed in a secure cabinet which is locked shut when not in use and is equipped with a drip tray or the pipe must, i. have a lockable valve where it leaves the container which is locked shut when not in use; and. Solvents that are not oil-based (e.g. You may have noticed that "waste oil" is listed in both the covered and exempt lists. underground (they are covered by the Defra Groundwater Protection Code instead). It must also be located away from delivery areas to prevent the risk of damage by impact. 
If you have multiple fixed tanks, mobile bowsers, or IBCs, the secondary containment around them must have a capacity that is equal to of the combined total of all containers or 110% of the largest container, whichever measurement is greater. Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general guidance only. 0000002997 00000 n
Linear channel drainage for the collection and distribution of surface water. A drip tray is designed to catch any spillages to prevent oil from entering the environment. 0000008741 00000 n
If you are storing oil in a container with a capacity of 201 litres or more on commercial premises or storing more than 3,500 litres of oil at your home (this includes barges and houseboats), you must follow the oil storage regulations for business. If you have a new or replacement fuel container installed at your home, such as for your cooker or central heating, you must adhere to building regulations. If you are in the market for high-quality polyethylene oil tanks, we stock a great range of bunded tanks over in our Oil Storage Tanks section that we'd recommend taking a look at. An isolating valve on a single skinned, twin walled or double skinned tank, within a constructed secondary containment system, must be within the secondary containment. 0000005690 00000 n
As a home, motor vehicle, boat or aircraft owner, you can store up to 30 litres of petrol without having to inform your local Petroleum Enforcement Authority (PEA). 0000003812 00000 n
400, 500 & 630mm OD Sewer Pipe & Fittings, Building Regulations Competent Person Scheme, Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001, Control of Pollution (Silage, Slurry and Agricultural Fuel Oil), 1991. Oil Storage Tanks - what type of tank do you need? Waste oils covered by the commercial oil storage regulations include: Waste oils exempt from the commercial oil storage regulations include: Note: while you do not need to follow the commercial rules if you store any of these types of waste oil, you should still check to see if you need an environmental permit. motor oil). However, a plastic tank can be easily moved if required. Marina service boats are not considered premises for onward distribution, if they sell oil directly to boat owners. Whether you're using oil for domestic or commercial use, there are strict oil storage tank regulations in place to protect the environment. Trying to trawl through any official documentation regarding governmental rules and regulations can be a chore. Call us on 0330 123 1444 and we will be able to offer advice from a team of experts. Ideally, you want to locate it away from driveways, tanker turning circles, forklift truck routes, and any other areas where there is an increased risk of it being damaged by impact. 0000004299 00000 n
0000003077 00000 n
Domestic oil supply pipes are usually constructed from plastic-coated soft copper tubing to enable them to be easily manipulated. The links above are a good place to start for more information about each country's oil storage regulations. We recommend that you check your fuel tank at least fortnightly to detect any early signs of contamination, such as diesel bug. This seems relatively straightforward, but there are two points that can be a bit ambiguous if not further explained; what is classed as commercial premises and to what type of oil containers does this refer? e.g. (c) in the case of a tap or valve, it must be fitted with a lock and locked shut when not in use. A pump is a potential source of ignition, meaning it must be positioned outside of the bund on an impervious base and in open air. All fuel tanks and ancillaries must be positioned in an oil tight secondary containment system, such as a bund or drip tray. If your fuel tank has any permanently attached vent pipes, taps or valves where oil can escape, they must be inside the bund and positioned so that oil goes directly into the bund to prevent polluting the environment. 0000093050 00000 n
Do you have space to locate it somewhere accessible to a re-fill tanker, or will you need to install a remote filling point? 
Above ground pipework should be located to prevent the risk of damage via impact and collision. All of our barrels and tanks are perfect for storing all fuels and oils and can even be tailor-made to suit your exact requirements. It is constructed from concrete, brickwork or it can be manufactured as part of a tank system, which is known as an integrally bunded tank.
0000015110 00000 n (e) if any fill pipe, or draw off pipe, penetrates its base or any of its walls, the junction of the pipe with the base or walls must be adequately sealed to prevent oil escaping from the system. Whoever fits your tank can be prosecuted if they do not comply with building regulations, however you are responsible for ensuring their work meets the regulations. 0000003604 00000 n If the building is on a farm in England or Wales, you must meet the requirements for storing agricultural fuel oil. However, it is still important to ensure you are following the right set of rules for the safety of your property, the environment, and your own legal peace of mind. Use brackets to support any above ground fill pipes, draw-off pipes, and overflow pipes to the nearest wall. 0000003258 00000 n 0000081322 00000 n
The drip tray will ensure the fuel is contained within as it is attached to the bottom of the tank. If you do not follow the relevant requirements for storing oil, you can be fined or prosecuted. 0000002913 00000 n Before you go running off to install your new oil container, however, there are a few extra rules you'll need to follow if you plan to use fixed tanks or mobile bowsers to store your oil. 0000003969 00000 n Different regulations apply depending on where you store your fuel, how much you store and what you are using the fuel for. Liquid bitumen-based products (e.g. According to the advice on the government's website, an oil storage container can be any of the following: Certain types of generators (ones with a connected oil supply tank that has a capacity of 201 litres or more) can also be classed as oil storage containers if they are: Again, it may seem obvious that all of the above would be classified as oil containers covered by the commercial regulations. For example, a drip tray which can hold 4 separate 205-litre drums must have a capacity of 205 litres, even if youre only using it to hold a single 205 litre drum. 0000043741 00000 n You must ensure it is not fixed open, unless if it has an automatic cut-off mechanism. (a) if above ground, must be properly supported; i. must have no mechanical joints, except at a place which is accessible for inspection by removing a hatch or cover; ii. 0000002641 00000 n 0000003706 00000 n bitumen). A bund can be the outer shell of a tank manufactured as part of the tank system (known as "integrally bunded" tanks), or it can be a structure made out of masonry or concrete within which the oil container is stored. Did you know that there is a different legal limit on how much fuel you can store at your business and at home? 0000004827 00000 n Avoid pollution penalties by using the correct fuel tank connections andfittings. Bunded fuel tanks are the most reliable fuel facility to store fuel safely and securely. Products suitable for house/plot drainage and adoptable foul sewerage systems. Tank products suitable for the storage of fuel, oil and water. 2 - if the substance being stored has a flash point of less than 32 degrees Celsius (such as ethanol), the container's filters, valves, gauges etc., can be located outside the bund. at a refinery or premises for onward distribution of oil (i.e. 0000004069 00000 n Each time you get your tank filled, make sure the screw fitting or fixed coupling is not becoming corroded and that debris is not getting trapped in it. For further information, read the relevant regulations: Have any questions about the storage of your fuel tank? fuelling tractors or powering grain dryers), it's going to be classed as commercial use. You must follow the rules on storing oil if youve got an oil storage container with a capacity of 201 litres or more at a: You must also follow these rules if youve got an oil storage container with a capacity of 3,501 litres or more at a home, including barges and houseboats. You could be fined or prosecuted if you do not follow the requirements in this guide. Important Note: If you plan to build a bund from masonry or concrete, be aware that it will probably need a rendering or special coating on the internal surfaces to make the base and walls impermeable. Check benefits and financial support you can get, Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, Fixed tanks with underground pipework: additional requirements, requirements for storing agricultural fuel oil, check if you need an environmental permit, advice on how to construct bunds that meet these requirements, Storing silage, slurry and agricultural fuel oil, Prevent groundwater pollution from underground fuel storage tanks, RP29: Self-supporting covers for slurry and anaerobic digestate stores, Natural England: Building partnerships for Natures recovery, public sector building like a school, hospital or leisure centre, mobile bowsers containers designed to store and dispense oil that can be moved between locations but not under their own power, vegetable oils, including any oil derived from a plant such as sunflower oil or plant-based oils used in aromatherapy, synthetic oils normally lubricating oils like motor oil, biodegradable oils usually lubricating or hydraulic oils, liquid bitumen-based products, for example waterproofing or damp proofing products, or coatings for a road surface, cutting fluids, for example lubricants designed specifically for metalworking processes, that are made from or contain oil as oil-water emulsions, insulating oils, used as electrical insulator and coolant, hydrocarbon products that are solid unless they are heated, such as bitumen, solvents that are not oil based such as trichloroethylene, aromatic hydrocarbons like benzene and toluene, mixtures of diesel and petrol which can no longer be used as vehicle fuel, for example fuel drained from a diesel car thats been accidentally filled with petrol, creating a mixture, any other oil drained from vehicle engines, at a premises for onward distribution of oil, rather than a premises which sells oil directly to end users, stored in a building a permanent or temporary structure with walls and a roof that would capture oil leaking from the container, generators in daily use with a tank that supplies the generator where all of the oil from the tank is not used in 1 day, stand-by generators, which are generators kept for emergency use, a bund an outer case which holds the container, double-skinned or twin-walled tanks, where the tank is surrounded by a second outer skin for extra strength, one quarter of the combined capacity of all the containers, 110% of the capacity of the largest container, manufactured as part of a tank system tanks that are pre-bunded by the manufacturer in this way are known as integrally bunded tanks, the bund is impermeable to oil and water oil and water cannot pass through, the base or walls of the bund do not have a pipe, valve or opening that allows the bund to be drained, any fill pipe or draw-off pipe that passes through the bund base or wall is sealed to stop oil getting out of the bund, the bund contains every part of the container and its associated equipment (such as valves) unless the oil being stored has a flash point of less than 32 (such as ethanol), in which case filters, sight gauges, valves and other equipment can sit outside the bund, have a bracket or brackets along the length of the sight gauge tube that fix the tube to the tank so the sight gauge tube cannot be knocked over, be fitted with a valve that closes automatically when the gauge is not in use, there must be a lockable valve at the point where the pipe leaves the oil tank, this valve must be locked shut when the pipe is not in use, have a valve in its feed line that prevents the tank contents emptying if theres damage to the pump or feed line, be positioned to minimise the risk of damage by impact, for example away from driveways, tanker turning circles, and fork lift truck routes, or protected by bollards or barriers, be secured to prevent theft of the oil, for example by locking the pump shut when its not in use, or cutting the supply of electricity to the pump so it cannot function when not in use, or enclosing the pump in a lockable cage, be arranged so any oil coming out of them will go vertically down into the bund, have a lock and be locked shut when not in use this only applies to taps and valves, not vent pipes, preventing vibration damage from lorries driving over ground that has pipework installed underneath, placing a layer of specialist tape in the ground above the underground pipework, to alert anyone digging that pipework is laid beneath, laying the pipework in a trench filled with a material that will drain water, like compacted sand, detecting changes in the pressure in the pipe, every 5 years if it contains mechanical joints, every 10 years if it does not contain mechanical joints, the lock must be locked shut when the tap or valve is not in use, to prevent oil flowing, any flexible delivery pipe permanently attached to the bowser the lock should be at the point the pipe leaves the bowser, any manually operated pump, like a hand pump, the valve on the delivery end of the flexible pipe attached to any automatic pump, for example an electric pump the valve must close automatically when the pump is not in use, like the nozzle on a pump at a petrol station. 0000010486 00000 n Ultimately, since no two sites are going to have the exact same layout and space available, there isn't really a "goldilocks" spot we can advise you of in this article. Our team of experts are always on hand to help with all of your civils and drainage needs. If your tank has underground pipework, you must make sure the pipework is protected from physical damage, for example by: If the pipework is made of a material that can be corroded such as steel or copper, you must also make sure its protected against corrosion, for example by: You must check any underground pipes attached to your fixed tank for leaks. home heating) or agricultural purposes (i.e. 0000004119 00000 n JDP uses cookies to make this site simpler. Where less than 3,500 litres of oil is stored, you do not need to follow the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001, however Building Regulations do apply for new tanks. fuel drained from a diesel car that's been accidentally filled with petrol). Synthetic oils (usually lubricating oils, e.g. Any other oil drained from vehicle engines. 1,900 litre Atlas Bunded Horizontal Oil Tank, 2,300 litre Atlas Bunded Vertical Oil Tank, 2,500 litre Atlas Bunded Horizontal Oil Tank, 3,500 litre Atlas Bunded Vertical Oil Tank, 5,000 litre Atlas Bunded Vertical Oil Tank, 9,400 litre Atlas Bunded Vertical Oil Tank, Agricultural Oil Storage Tank Regulations - what you need to know, Domestic Oil Storage Tank Regulations - what you need to know. The screw fitting and fixed coupling must not become eroded. 0000008762 00000 n (a) the pipe must be fitted with a manually operated pump or with a valve at the delivery end which closes automatically when not in use; (b) the pump or valve must be provided with a lock and locked shut when not in use; (c) the pipe must be fitted with a lockable valve at the end where it leaves the container and must be locked shut when not in use. Given that all oil tanks should always be installed by a registered professional technician (preferably OFTEC approved), we'd probably get them to advise you on the best location anyway. The secondary containment for a drum (usually a drip tray) must have a capacity equal to or more than one quarter of the drum its holding. If you have any questions, or want to speak to our team of experts about your fuel and oil storage needs, call us on 0330 123 1444. 5) Where any drum is used for the storage of oil in conjunction with a drip tray as the secondary containment system, it is sufficient if the tray has a capacity of not less than 25% of. 0000004172 00000 n A bund is the outer case to a fuel tank. trichloroethylene). We may ask for grease to be stored on a drip tray, but we expect that containers are either below 200 litres or stored indoors. You must only fill the tank up to 85% to leave room for expansion and to avoid any spillages. 1) Any fixed tank used for storing oil shall satisfy the following requirements. If the fill point of your fixed tank has a screw fitting or fixed coupling, it must be used when youre having your tank filled. The caveat to this comes if the containers are hydraulically linked, in which case they should be treated as a single unit, and the secondary containment should have a capacity that is 110% of the combined capacity. have a secondary containment feature to reduce the risk of leaking oil into the environment. If a low-risk location isn't available or practical, one solution to this is to place barriers or bollards around the storage container to give it some protection. You must ensure your tank is installed by someone who is registered with a Competent Person scheme as they can self-certify that their own work adheres to building regulations. However, they may still fall under other storage regulations or safety measures, so it is worth doing further research if you plan to store any of them. 7) Where oil from the tank is delivered through a flexible pipe which is permanently attached to the container. 0000003493 00000 n Fixed tanks must be bunded you cannot use a drip tray for them. If you have any further questions about oil tank regulations, or need any further advice about oil storage options, contact JDP today. Drip trays are fairly self explanatory and best used for catching spills and leaks beneath smaller containers (such as drums) and remote filling points. If your fuel tank is near a river or water source, the company is required to fit a secondary containment, such as a bund to prevent any oil spillages. 0000012416 00000 n Established over 70 years ago, Crown Oil is an independently owned, family-run business, supplying oil, fuel, additives and lubricants throughout the UK, to both domestic and commercial customers. First off, one point that isn't specifically mentioned in the requirements above is that fixed tanks MUST be bunded. The Environment Agency can also serve an anti-pollution works notice if your storage container isn't up to legal standards, forcing you to bring it up to code or even replace it if you want to avoid legal action. A metal tank must comply to OFTEC standard OFS T200 or British Standard 799-5 and ideally, be stored above ground. You are looking out for any signs of corrosion and wear and tear, and also any sudden reductions in the level of your fuel, which might indicate a leaking heating oil tank. 6) Where oil from the tank is delivered through a flexible pipe which is permanently attached to the container. waste oil and motor oil, Liquid bitumen-based products e.g. 0000004526 00000 n 0000043791 00000 n Or you must make sure that any impact will not damage the container, for example by placing barriers or bollards around the tank. They are ideal for plant equipment and machinery that need regularly refilling. Your screw fitting or fixed coupling must be kept in good working order. (a) it must be situated within the secondary containment system; (b) it must be arranged so as to discharge the oil vertically downwards and be contained within the system; and. Anything that is external to the bund but still part of the tank system (valves, pumps, piping etc.) 0000019808 00000 n Products for the collection, storage or treatment of foul & waste water. Identifying problems early on will reduce the likelihood of hefty costs. A bund must adhere to ISO 9000 regulations: A bunded tank is now required in almost all commercial and industrial sites and also in most domestic premises too, pending an inspection by an OFTEC-registered engineer. For example, a drip tray that can hold four separate 205 litre drums must have a capacity of 205 litres, even if you only use it to hold a single 205 litre drum. When your tank is being installed, the company must ensure the work complies with Building Regulations 2010. If you have any questions regarding the storage of your fuel tank, please call us on 0330 123 1444 for help and advice from our team of experts. Hb``b`pe`c`Led@ A; CH,nW0`A3i6QKvB. It must be: Pipes are a potential source of an oil leakage, so they must have a shut-off valve that has been tested to BS EN ISO 10497 and therefore fire safe. The Construction Research and Information Association (CIRIA) has published advice on how to construct bunds that meet these requirements. If your fixed tank has a flexible pipe permanently attached to it to dispense oil, the pipe must be in a secure cabinet that: Alternatively, all of the following must apply: Whether the pipe is in a secure cabinet or within the bund, it must also have a tap or valve at the delivery end that closes automatically when the pipe is not in use. Storing oil for commercial purposes is regulated by a different set of rules than storing it for domestic or agricultural use. You do not need to follow them if you store any of the following types of waste oil but you should check if you need an environmental permit: You do not need to follow these rules if your storage containers are: If you store oil in a building, you may need to meet additional fire safety measures under the Building Regulations contact your local council to discuss whether this is the case for your store. To help us improve GOV.UK, wed like to know more about your visit today. If you fill your container through a remote fill pipe, you must use a drip tray to catch any oil spillages that may occur during the delivery.
Again, you must contact your local PEA who can issue you one for up to 3 years, but this is non-transferable. Oil Firing Technical Association (OFTEC) standard OST T100 - for plastic containers. Give us a call on 0330 123 1444 to discuss what type of tank is suitable for your needs. According to the government's website at the time of writing this article, you must follow the commercial rules if you store any of the following types of oil on commercial premises: Grease is also on the government's list but is somewhat set apart by the following information: As with the first two points, there are specific exemptions to the rules listed that are worth noting. Must contain every part of the oil storage container and associated equipment (such as valves). Oil storage containers must meet certain standards in order to be considered legal under the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001 for Commercial Oil Storage. Underground pipes should also have a permanent leak detection device installed, otherwise it will need to be tested every 5 (if it contains mechanical joints) to 10 (if it doesn't contain mechanical joints) years.
It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. If you fill your container via a remote fill pipe you must use a drip tray to catch any oil that may be spilled during the delivery. 'stand-by' generators kept for emergency use. You must make sure the valve and filter are accessible for routine maintenance and emergencies. benzene and toluene).
If you do not fit a permanent leak detection device you must test your underground pipework for leaks when you install it and then: A mechanical joint is a fitting used to connect 2 or more pieces of separate pipe, such as compression or threaded fittings. 0000093026 00000 n Cutting fluids (e.g. An oil tank inspection can find the root of a problem which can be repaired, eradicating the need of having to replace your fuel and tank. If your fixed fuel tank contains a flexible pipe to dispense oil, it must be in a secure cabinet that remains locked shut when not in use, with an attached drip tray. All oil containers on commercial properties MUST be installed with a secondary containment feature around them to catch any potential oil leaks. For example if your container has a capacity of 2,500 litres, your secondary containment must have capacity for 2,750 litres. Secondary containment is required to prevent oil escaping from the tank or ancillary equipment in the event of a leakage or spill. That brings us neatly onto point number two. During a remote fill, the tank might not be visible from the fill point. places that don't sell oil directly to end-users). For fixed tanks, they need to be made to British Standard 5410 or; For oil drums and IBC's, look out for ones marked with the letters' UN' for United Nations. Or you must make sure they will not be damaged by any impact, for example placing barriers or bollards around them. 0000002663 00000 n The law requires different containers, depending on how much fuel you are storing: You can store over 30 litres but less 275 litres of petrol, but you must inform your local PEA via writing, with your name, address and storage location. 0000008856 00000 n In an effort to cut through some of the confusion, though, we'll now take a look at the commercial regulations to see when exactly they become relevant. Products for above ground foul and surface water drainage. News stories, speeches, letters and notices, Reports, analysis and official statistics, Data, Freedom of Information releases and corporate reports. Commercial oil supply pipes tend to be constructed from steel to provide protection from damage and vandalism. These classifications may seem a bit pedantic, especially since the regulations for each are broadly similar. An outer skin designed to give the tank extra strength can only be classed as a bund if there is enough space between it and the inner tank to hold 110% of the inner tank's storage capacity.
If you have multiple fixed tanks, mobile bowsers, or IBCs, the secondary containment around them must have a capacity that is equal to of the combined total of all containers or 110% of the largest container, whichever measurement is greater. Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general guidance only. 0000002997 00000 n
Linear channel drainage for the collection and distribution of surface water. A drip tray is designed to catch any spillages to prevent oil from entering the environment. 0000008741 00000 n
If you are storing oil in a container with a capacity of 201 litres or more on commercial premises or storing more than 3,500 litres of oil at your home (this includes barges and houseboats), you must follow the oil storage regulations for business. If you have a new or replacement fuel container installed at your home, such as for your cooker or central heating, you must adhere to building regulations. If you are in the market for high-quality polyethylene oil tanks, we stock a great range of bunded tanks over in our Oil Storage Tanks section that we'd recommend taking a look at. An isolating valve on a single skinned, twin walled or double skinned tank, within a constructed secondary containment system, must be within the secondary containment. 0000005690 00000 n
As a home, motor vehicle, boat or aircraft owner, you can store up to 30 litres of petrol without having to inform your local Petroleum Enforcement Authority (PEA). 0000003812 00000 n
400, 500 & 630mm OD Sewer Pipe & Fittings, Building Regulations Competent Person Scheme, Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001, Control of Pollution (Silage, Slurry and Agricultural Fuel Oil), 1991. Oil Storage Tanks - what type of tank do you need? Waste oils covered by the commercial oil storage regulations include: Waste oils exempt from the commercial oil storage regulations include: Note: while you do not need to follow the commercial rules if you store any of these types of waste oil, you should still check to see if you need an environmental permit. motor oil). However, a plastic tank can be easily moved if required. Marina service boats are not considered premises for onward distribution, if they sell oil directly to boat owners. Whether you're using oil for domestic or commercial use, there are strict oil storage tank regulations in place to protect the environment. Trying to trawl through any official documentation regarding governmental rules and regulations can be a chore. Call us on 0330 123 1444 and we will be able to offer advice from a team of experts. Ideally, you want to locate it away from driveways, tanker turning circles, forklift truck routes, and any other areas where there is an increased risk of it being damaged by impact. 0000004299 00000 n
0000003077 00000 n
Domestic oil supply pipes are usually constructed from plastic-coated soft copper tubing to enable them to be easily manipulated. The links above are a good place to start for more information about each country's oil storage regulations. We recommend that you check your fuel tank at least fortnightly to detect any early signs of contamination, such as diesel bug. This seems relatively straightforward, but there are two points that can be a bit ambiguous if not further explained; what is classed as commercial premises and to what type of oil containers does this refer? e.g. (c) in the case of a tap or valve, it must be fitted with a lock and locked shut when not in use. A pump is a potential source of ignition, meaning it must be positioned outside of the bund on an impervious base and in open air. All fuel tanks and ancillaries must be positioned in an oil tight secondary containment system, such as a bund or drip tray. If your fuel tank has any permanently attached vent pipes, taps or valves where oil can escape, they must be inside the bund and positioned so that oil goes directly into the bund to prevent polluting the environment. 0000093050 00000 n
Do you have space to locate it somewhere accessible to a re-fill tanker, or will you need to install a remote filling point? Above ground pipework should be located to prevent the risk of damage via impact and collision. All of our barrels and tanks are perfect for storing all fuels and oils and can even be tailor-made to suit your exact requirements. It is constructed from concrete, brickwork or it can be manufactured as part of a tank system, which is known as an integrally bunded tank. 0000015110 00000 n (e) if any fill pipe, or draw off pipe, penetrates its base or any of its walls, the junction of the pipe with the base or walls must be adequately sealed to prevent oil escaping from the system. Whoever fits your tank can be prosecuted if they do not comply with building regulations, however you are responsible for ensuring their work meets the regulations. 0000003604 00000 n If the building is on a farm in England or Wales, you must meet the requirements for storing agricultural fuel oil. However, it is still important to ensure you are following the right set of rules for the safety of your property, the environment, and your own legal peace of mind. Use brackets to support any above ground fill pipes, draw-off pipes, and overflow pipes to the nearest wall. 0000003258 00000 n 0000081322 00000 n
The drip tray will ensure the fuel is contained within as it is attached to the bottom of the tank. If you do not follow the relevant requirements for storing oil, you can be fined or prosecuted. 0000002913 00000 n Before you go running off to install your new oil container, however, there are a few extra rules you'll need to follow if you plan to use fixed tanks or mobile bowsers to store your oil. 0000003969 00000 n Different regulations apply depending on where you store your fuel, how much you store and what you are using the fuel for. Liquid bitumen-based products (e.g. According to the advice on the government's website, an oil storage container can be any of the following: Certain types of generators (ones with a connected oil supply tank that has a capacity of 201 litres or more) can also be classed as oil storage containers if they are: Again, it may seem obvious that all of the above would be classified as oil containers covered by the commercial regulations. For example, a drip tray which can hold 4 separate 205-litre drums must have a capacity of 205 litres, even if youre only using it to hold a single 205 litre drum. 0000043741 00000 n You must ensure it is not fixed open, unless if it has an automatic cut-off mechanism. (a) if above ground, must be properly supported; i. must have no mechanical joints, except at a place which is accessible for inspection by removing a hatch or cover; ii. 0000002641 00000 n 0000003706 00000 n bitumen). A bund can be the outer shell of a tank manufactured as part of the tank system (known as "integrally bunded" tanks), or it can be a structure made out of masonry or concrete within which the oil container is stored. Did you know that there is a different legal limit on how much fuel you can store at your business and at home? 0000004827 00000 n Avoid pollution penalties by using the correct fuel tank connections andfittings. Bunded fuel tanks are the most reliable fuel facility to store fuel safely and securely. Products suitable for house/plot drainage and adoptable foul sewerage systems. Tank products suitable for the storage of fuel, oil and water. 2 - if the substance being stored has a flash point of less than 32 degrees Celsius (such as ethanol), the container's filters, valves, gauges etc., can be located outside the bund. at a refinery or premises for onward distribution of oil (i.e. 0000004069 00000 n Each time you get your tank filled, make sure the screw fitting or fixed coupling is not becoming corroded and that debris is not getting trapped in it. For further information, read the relevant regulations: Have any questions about the storage of your fuel tank? fuelling tractors or powering grain dryers), it's going to be classed as commercial use. You must follow the rules on storing oil if youve got an oil storage container with a capacity of 201 litres or more at a: You must also follow these rules if youve got an oil storage container with a capacity of 3,501 litres or more at a home, including barges and houseboats. You could be fined or prosecuted if you do not follow the requirements in this guide. Important Note: If you plan to build a bund from masonry or concrete, be aware that it will probably need a rendering or special coating on the internal surfaces to make the base and walls impermeable. Check benefits and financial support you can get, Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, Fixed tanks with underground pipework: additional requirements, requirements for storing agricultural fuel oil, check if you need an environmental permit, advice on how to construct bunds that meet these requirements, Storing silage, slurry and agricultural fuel oil, Prevent groundwater pollution from underground fuel storage tanks, RP29: Self-supporting covers for slurry and anaerobic digestate stores, Natural England: Building partnerships for Natures recovery, public sector building like a school, hospital or leisure centre, mobile bowsers containers designed to store and dispense oil that can be moved between locations but not under their own power, vegetable oils, including any oil derived from a plant such as sunflower oil or plant-based oils used in aromatherapy, synthetic oils normally lubricating oils like motor oil, biodegradable oils usually lubricating or hydraulic oils, liquid bitumen-based products, for example waterproofing or damp proofing products, or coatings for a road surface, cutting fluids, for example lubricants designed specifically for metalworking processes, that are made from or contain oil as oil-water emulsions, insulating oils, used as electrical insulator and coolant, hydrocarbon products that are solid unless they are heated, such as bitumen, solvents that are not oil based such as trichloroethylene, aromatic hydrocarbons like benzene and toluene, mixtures of diesel and petrol which can no longer be used as vehicle fuel, for example fuel drained from a diesel car thats been accidentally filled with petrol, creating a mixture, any other oil drained from vehicle engines, at a premises for onward distribution of oil, rather than a premises which sells oil directly to end users, stored in a building a permanent or temporary structure with walls and a roof that would capture oil leaking from the container, generators in daily use with a tank that supplies the generator where all of the oil from the tank is not used in 1 day, stand-by generators, which are generators kept for emergency use, a bund an outer case which holds the container, double-skinned or twin-walled tanks, where the tank is surrounded by a second outer skin for extra strength, one quarter of the combined capacity of all the containers, 110% of the capacity of the largest container, manufactured as part of a tank system tanks that are pre-bunded by the manufacturer in this way are known as integrally bunded tanks, the bund is impermeable to oil and water oil and water cannot pass through, the base or walls of the bund do not have a pipe, valve or opening that allows the bund to be drained, any fill pipe or draw-off pipe that passes through the bund base or wall is sealed to stop oil getting out of the bund, the bund contains every part of the container and its associated equipment (such as valves) unless the oil being stored has a flash point of less than 32 (such as ethanol), in which case filters, sight gauges, valves and other equipment can sit outside the bund, have a bracket or brackets along the length of the sight gauge tube that fix the tube to the tank so the sight gauge tube cannot be knocked over, be fitted with a valve that closes automatically when the gauge is not in use, there must be a lockable valve at the point where the pipe leaves the oil tank, this valve must be locked shut when the pipe is not in use, have a valve in its feed line that prevents the tank contents emptying if theres damage to the pump or feed line, be positioned to minimise the risk of damage by impact, for example away from driveways, tanker turning circles, and fork lift truck routes, or protected by bollards or barriers, be secured to prevent theft of the oil, for example by locking the pump shut when its not in use, or cutting the supply of electricity to the pump so it cannot function when not in use, or enclosing the pump in a lockable cage, be arranged so any oil coming out of them will go vertically down into the bund, have a lock and be locked shut when not in use this only applies to taps and valves, not vent pipes, preventing vibration damage from lorries driving over ground that has pipework installed underneath, placing a layer of specialist tape in the ground above the underground pipework, to alert anyone digging that pipework is laid beneath, laying the pipework in a trench filled with a material that will drain water, like compacted sand, detecting changes in the pressure in the pipe, every 5 years if it contains mechanical joints, every 10 years if it does not contain mechanical joints, the lock must be locked shut when the tap or valve is not in use, to prevent oil flowing, any flexible delivery pipe permanently attached to the bowser the lock should be at the point the pipe leaves the bowser, any manually operated pump, like a hand pump, the valve on the delivery end of the flexible pipe attached to any automatic pump, for example an electric pump the valve must close automatically when the pump is not in use, like the nozzle on a pump at a petrol station. 0000010486 00000 n Ultimately, since no two sites are going to have the exact same layout and space available, there isn't really a "goldilocks" spot we can advise you of in this article. Our team of experts are always on hand to help with all of your civils and drainage needs. If your tank has underground pipework, you must make sure the pipework is protected from physical damage, for example by: If the pipework is made of a material that can be corroded such as steel or copper, you must also make sure its protected against corrosion, for example by: You must check any underground pipes attached to your fixed tank for leaks. home heating) or agricultural purposes (i.e. 0000004119 00000 n JDP uses cookies to make this site simpler. Where less than 3,500 litres of oil is stored, you do not need to follow the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001, however Building Regulations do apply for new tanks. fuel drained from a diesel car that's been accidentally filled with petrol). Synthetic oils (usually lubricating oils, e.g. Any other oil drained from vehicle engines. 1,900 litre Atlas Bunded Horizontal Oil Tank, 2,300 litre Atlas Bunded Vertical Oil Tank, 2,500 litre Atlas Bunded Horizontal Oil Tank, 3,500 litre Atlas Bunded Vertical Oil Tank, 5,000 litre Atlas Bunded Vertical Oil Tank, 9,400 litre Atlas Bunded Vertical Oil Tank, Agricultural Oil Storage Tank Regulations - what you need to know, Domestic Oil Storage Tank Regulations - what you need to know. The screw fitting and fixed coupling must not become eroded. 0000008762 00000 n (a) the pipe must be fitted with a manually operated pump or with a valve at the delivery end which closes automatically when not in use; (b) the pump or valve must be provided with a lock and locked shut when not in use; (c) the pipe must be fitted with a lockable valve at the end where it leaves the container and must be locked shut when not in use. Given that all oil tanks should always be installed by a registered professional technician (preferably OFTEC approved), we'd probably get them to advise you on the best location anyway. The secondary containment for a drum (usually a drip tray) must have a capacity equal to or more than one quarter of the drum its holding. If you have any questions, or want to speak to our team of experts about your fuel and oil storage needs, call us on 0330 123 1444. 5) Where any drum is used for the storage of oil in conjunction with a drip tray as the secondary containment system, it is sufficient if the tray has a capacity of not less than 25% of. 0000004172 00000 n A bund is the outer case to a fuel tank. trichloroethylene). We may ask for grease to be stored on a drip tray, but we expect that containers are either below 200 litres or stored indoors. You must only fill the tank up to 85% to leave room for expansion and to avoid any spillages. 1) Any fixed tank used for storing oil shall satisfy the following requirements. If the fill point of your fixed tank has a screw fitting or fixed coupling, it must be used when youre having your tank filled. The caveat to this comes if the containers are hydraulically linked, in which case they should be treated as a single unit, and the secondary containment should have a capacity that is 110% of the combined capacity. have a secondary containment feature to reduce the risk of leaking oil into the environment. If a low-risk location isn't available or practical, one solution to this is to place barriers or bollards around the storage container to give it some protection. You must ensure your tank is installed by someone who is registered with a Competent Person scheme as they can self-certify that their own work adheres to building regulations. However, they may still fall under other storage regulations or safety measures, so it is worth doing further research if you plan to store any of them. 7) Where oil from the tank is delivered through a flexible pipe which is permanently attached to the container. 0000003493 00000 n Fixed tanks must be bunded you cannot use a drip tray for them. If you have any further questions about oil tank regulations, or need any further advice about oil storage options, contact JDP today. Drip trays are fairly self explanatory and best used for catching spills and leaks beneath smaller containers (such as drums) and remote filling points. If your fuel tank is near a river or water source, the company is required to fit a secondary containment, such as a bund to prevent any oil spillages. 0000012416 00000 n Established over 70 years ago, Crown Oil is an independently owned, family-run business, supplying oil, fuel, additives and lubricants throughout the UK, to both domestic and commercial customers. First off, one point that isn't specifically mentioned in the requirements above is that fixed tanks MUST be bunded. The Environment Agency can also serve an anti-pollution works notice if your storage container isn't up to legal standards, forcing you to bring it up to code or even replace it if you want to avoid legal action. A metal tank must comply to OFTEC standard OFS T200 or British Standard 799-5 and ideally, be stored above ground. You are looking out for any signs of corrosion and wear and tear, and also any sudden reductions in the level of your fuel, which might indicate a leaking heating oil tank. 6) Where oil from the tank is delivered through a flexible pipe which is permanently attached to the container. waste oil and motor oil, Liquid bitumen-based products e.g. 0000004526 00000 n 0000043791 00000 n Or you must make sure that any impact will not damage the container, for example by placing barriers or bollards around the tank. They are ideal for plant equipment and machinery that need regularly refilling. Your screw fitting or fixed coupling must be kept in good working order. (a) it must be situated within the secondary containment system; (b) it must be arranged so as to discharge the oil vertically downwards and be contained within the system; and. Anything that is external to the bund but still part of the tank system (valves, pumps, piping etc.) 0000019808 00000 n Products for the collection, storage or treatment of foul & waste water. Identifying problems early on will reduce the likelihood of hefty costs. A bund must adhere to ISO 9000 regulations: A bunded tank is now required in almost all commercial and industrial sites and also in most domestic premises too, pending an inspection by an OFTEC-registered engineer. For example, a drip tray that can hold four separate 205 litre drums must have a capacity of 205 litres, even if you only use it to hold a single 205 litre drum. When your tank is being installed, the company must ensure the work complies with Building Regulations 2010. If you have any questions regarding the storage of your fuel tank, please call us on 0330 123 1444 for help and advice from our team of experts. Hb``b`pe`c`Led@ A; CH,nW0`A3i6QKvB. It must be: Pipes are a potential source of an oil leakage, so they must have a shut-off valve that has been tested to BS EN ISO 10497 and therefore fire safe. The Construction Research and Information Association (CIRIA) has published advice on how to construct bunds that meet these requirements. If your fixed tank has a flexible pipe permanently attached to it to dispense oil, the pipe must be in a secure cabinet that: Alternatively, all of the following must apply: Whether the pipe is in a secure cabinet or within the bund, it must also have a tap or valve at the delivery end that closes automatically when the pipe is not in use. Storing oil for commercial purposes is regulated by a different set of rules than storing it for domestic or agricultural use. You do not need to follow them if you store any of the following types of waste oil but you should check if you need an environmental permit: You do not need to follow these rules if your storage containers are: If you store oil in a building, you may need to meet additional fire safety measures under the Building Regulations contact your local council to discuss whether this is the case for your store. To help us improve GOV.UK, wed like to know more about your visit today. If you fill your container through a remote fill pipe, you must use a drip tray to catch any oil spillages that may occur during the delivery.
Again, you must contact your local PEA who can issue you one for up to 3 years, but this is non-transferable. Oil Firing Technical Association (OFTEC) standard OST T100 - for plastic containers. Give us a call on 0330 123 1444 to discuss what type of tank is suitable for your needs. According to the government's website at the time of writing this article, you must follow the commercial rules if you store any of the following types of oil on commercial premises: Grease is also on the government's list but is somewhat set apart by the following information: As with the first two points, there are specific exemptions to the rules listed that are worth noting. Must contain every part of the oil storage container and associated equipment (such as valves). Oil storage containers must meet certain standards in order to be considered legal under the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001 for Commercial Oil Storage. Underground pipes should also have a permanent leak detection device installed, otherwise it will need to be tested every 5 (if it contains mechanical joints) to 10 (if it doesn't contain mechanical joints) years.
It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. If you fill your container via a remote fill pipe you must use a drip tray to catch any oil that may be spilled during the delivery. 'stand-by' generators kept for emergency use. You must make sure the valve and filter are accessible for routine maintenance and emergencies. benzene and toluene).
If you do not fit a permanent leak detection device you must test your underground pipework for leaks when you install it and then: A mechanical joint is a fitting used to connect 2 or more pieces of separate pipe, such as compression or threaded fittings. 0000093026 00000 n Cutting fluids (e.g. An oil tank inspection can find the root of a problem which can be repaired, eradicating the need of having to replace your fuel and tank. If your fixed fuel tank contains a flexible pipe to dispense oil, it must be in a secure cabinet that remains locked shut when not in use, with an attached drip tray. All oil containers on commercial properties MUST be installed with a secondary containment feature around them to catch any potential oil leaks. For example if your container has a capacity of 2,500 litres, your secondary containment must have capacity for 2,750 litres. Secondary containment is required to prevent oil escaping from the tank or ancillary equipment in the event of a leakage or spill. That brings us neatly onto point number two. During a remote fill, the tank might not be visible from the fill point. places that don't sell oil directly to end-users). For fixed tanks, they need to be made to British Standard 5410 or; For oil drums and IBC's, look out for ones marked with the letters' UN' for United Nations. Or you must make sure they will not be damaged by any impact, for example placing barriers or bollards around them. 0000002663 00000 n The law requires different containers, depending on how much fuel you are storing: You can store over 30 litres but less 275 litres of petrol, but you must inform your local PEA via writing, with your name, address and storage location. 0000008856 00000 n In an effort to cut through some of the confusion, though, we'll now take a look at the commercial regulations to see when exactly they become relevant. Products for above ground foul and surface water drainage. News stories, speeches, letters and notices, Reports, analysis and official statistics, Data, Freedom of Information releases and corporate reports. Commercial oil supply pipes tend to be constructed from steel to provide protection from damage and vandalism. These classifications may seem a bit pedantic, especially since the regulations for each are broadly similar. An outer skin designed to give the tank extra strength can only be classed as a bund if there is enough space between it and the inner tank to hold 110% of the inner tank's storage capacity.