Mercedes Mullins
Fuel is a hazardous and highly combustible substance, so it's important to handle it with care and adhere to the relevant regulations. The amount of fuel that can be stored at work depends on the type of fuel and the specific regulations in your location. For example, in the UK, the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) apply to all workplaces, and there are specific guidelines for storing petrol and diesel. If you have a storage container that can hold over 200 litres of fuel at your business, you must follow the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001. Proper fuel storage is essential to prevent issues such as spillages, fires, or explosions.
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What You'll Learn
Containers and storage places
Containers
When choosing containers for fuel storage, it is essential to select suitable options that meet the relevant regulations. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK sets the petrol storage regulations and classifies petrol as a "hazardous" substance. Suitable containers can be portable plastic or metal ones, such as jerry cans, or demountable fuel tanks. For smaller quantities, containers or boxes can be used, while larger cabinets are suitable for storing fuel drums.
Labelling and Ventilation
All containers and cabinets should be properly labelled, indicating the contents and any relevant hazards. Additionally, to prevent the buildup of fumes, ensure that the storage area is well-ventilated. This can be achieved through proper design and placement of the storage area.
Stacking and Placement
When placing containers, it is recommended to store them in the open air at ground level, either singly or in stacks. This arrangement facilitates easy detection of leaks and enables vapours to dissipate quickly. It is also important to avoid overfilling containers and to securely fasten them during transit to prevent leaks and spills.
Storage Capacity
The storage capacity of containers and the overall fuel storage system is crucial. For businesses, if the storage capacity exceeds 200 litres, the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001 come into effect. Additionally, the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) apply to workplaces, requiring a risk assessment to identify and control dangerous substances, including petrol. If the storage area is also a workroom, the maximum quantity of highly flammable liquids, including petrol, should not exceed 50 litres.
Spill Containment
To address the risk of spills, it is essential to have secondary containment measures in place. For example, a drip tray underneath the tank can help capture any spillage. The capacity of the drip tray should be equal to the container's volume or one-quarter of the drum's capacity, whichever is larger. Additionally, bulk tanks are legally required to have a bund to contain any potential spills.
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Regulations and guidelines
Petrol Storage
Petrol is a highly flammable and potentially dangerous substance, so it is crucial to follow proper storage guidelines. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sets the regulations for petrol storage in the UK. If you are storing petrol at a workplace, there are specific regulations and guidelines to follow:
- If the storage space is also a workroom, you are not allowed to store more than 50 litres of highly flammable liquids, including petrol and paint thinners.
- If dispensing fuel occurs in the workplace, such as on a construction site, you need a spill containment strategy, such as drip trays or bunded storage.
- Containers must be secured with locks and tightly sealed when not in use.
- Store petrol in the open air or provide direct ventilation to the outdoors to prevent vapour buildup.
- Do not store petrol on the roof of a building. If outdoor storage is not feasible, use a suitable storeroom, preferably a separate building designed for this purpose.
- Only designated persons should conduct fueling operations.
- Smoking and open flames are prohibited in areas used for fueling, fuel storage, or enclosed storage of equipment containing fuel.
- Equipment should be refuelled only at designated locations.
- Portable containers for liquid fuel should be made of metal, have tight closures, and be equipped with spouts to prevent spilling.
- Leaking containers should not be used.
Diesel Storage
While there are no specific legal requirements for diesel storage in workplaces or domestic premises, it is important to consider general safety guidelines:
- Do not perform 'hot work' on the vessel unless it is emptied and purged of any remaining vapour.
- Position the drum away from direct heat sources and in an area with no risk of collision with vehicles or forklifts.
- Contain leaks and spills near the drum and clean them up promptly to prevent slipping.
Oil Storage
The regulations for oil storage depend on the quantity being stored and the type of premises:
- For businesses or public sector buildings storing over 200 litres of oil, you must follow the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001.
- At a single private dwelling storing less than 3500 litres of oil, refer to the Building Regulations for replacement and new tanks.
- Use bunded fuel tanks or containers for safe and secure storage. A bund is an outer case that encompasses the container and can be made of masonry or concrete.
- Delivery pipes should be permanently attached to the tank with self-closing taps or valves locked when not in use.
- The bund must be able to hold 110% of the container's capacity to account for overfilling, tank failure, and rainwater ingress.
- If you have multiple oil storage tanks, the secondary containment must hold 110% of the largest tank's capacity or 25% of the total capacity, whichever is greater.
General Guidelines
Regardless of the type of fuel, there are some general guidelines to ensure safe fuel storage:
- Avoid storing fuel near underground entrances, elevator shafts, or areas where gases or fumes might accumulate.
- Locate fuel containers to minimise exposure to excessive temperatures and physical damage.
- Close outlet valves of containers in storage or transport to prevent leaks.
- Ensure that the fuel storage area is well-ventilated and free from ignition sources.
- Use only approved containers for fuel storage, such as UN-approved containers or those specified by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
- Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer's safety data sheet (MSDS) and the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR).
It is important to note that regulations and guidelines may vary depending on your location, so it is always best to refer to the specific laws and guidelines in your region.
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Safety and precautions
Storage Location and Quantity:
If the storage area is a workroom, limit the quantity of highly flammable liquids, including petrol, to 50 litres. This limit applies to thinners and other highly flammable liquids as well. For non-workplace premises, such as homes, the limit is typically 30 litres.
Storage Containers and Ventilation:
Use suitable containers, such as portable plastic or metal containers (jerry cans) or demountable fuel tanks, that are properly labelled and secured with locks. Where practicable, store containers in the open air at ground level to facilitate leak detection and vapour dispersion. Ensure the storage area is well-ventilated, with large vents in doors and on one outside wall.
Spill Containment and Prevention:
Implement a spill containment strategy, such as using drip trays or bunded storage, to capture any leaks or spills. Quickly mop up spills to reduce the risk of slipping and contain them to the vicinity of the drum. Avoid storing fuel on the roof of a building, and keep it away from direct heat sources and collision risks, like vehicles or forklifts.
Risk Assessment and Regulations:
Conduct a thorough risk assessment of the storage area, identifying and minimizing risks. Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, such as the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) and the Health and Safety Work Act, depending on your location. If storing over 200 litres of fuel at your business, adhere to the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations.
Handling and Dispensing:
Be cautious when handling petrol-powered equipment. Utilize tools like the Fillpartner Autofiller attachment to reduce accidental fuel contact and minimize exposure to fumes. Avoid performing any "hot work" on the vessel unless it has been emptied and purged of vapours. Ensure that only authorized personnel have access to the fuel storage area.
By following these safety precautions and staying informed about regulations, you can help ensure the secure storage of fuel in your workplace.
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Dispensing and distribution
Understanding the Hazards
Firstly, it is crucial to recognize that fuel is a hazardous substance. Petrol, in particular, is highly flammable and potentially explosive, while diesel, though less volatile, can still ignite under certain conditions. Spillages, fires, and explosions pose significant risks, underscoring the importance of proper fuel storage and handling.
Legal Requirements and Regulations
The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) form the legislative framework for workplace fuel storage and handling. This regulation requires employers to conduct risk assessments to identify and control dangerous substances, protecting employees and the public. It is the employer's responsibility to ensure compliance with these regulations.
There are specific volume limits to consider. In a workroom, the general requirement is to store no more than 50 litres of highly flammable liquids, including petrol. For diesel fuel, there are no specific legal quantity restrictions, but general precautions must still be taken.
Storage Solutions
Safe storage solutions are critical. For petrol, you can use large cabinets for fuel drums, or containers/boxes for smaller quantities. All storage options should be properly labelled, and where practical, stored in the open air at ground level to facilitate leak detection and vapour dispersion.
For diesel, while there are no specific regulations, general guidelines include avoiding 'hot work' on vessels containing diesel, keeping drums away from direct heat sources, and locating them away from potential collision hazards like vehicles or forklifts. Leaks and spills should be contained and cleaned up promptly to reduce the risk of slipping and ignition.
Dispensing Practices
When dispensing fuel, avoid filling tanks to the brim, as fuel expands and vapour can accumulate in hot weather. Securely fasten containers during transit to prevent leaks, and be cautious when handling to avoid skin contact and exposure to fumes.
Record-Keeping and Notification
Record-keeping and notification procedures vary depending on the amount of fuel stored. For example, storing over 30 litres but less than 275 litres of fuel requires notifying your local Petroleum Enforcement Authority (PEA) in writing, providing your name, address, and storage location.
Product Recommendations
Some recommended products for safe fuel storage and dispensing include the Transbank fuel storage box by Armorgard Security Products, which is designed to store 54 5L cans of Aspen Fuel. The Fillpartner Autofiller attachment is another innovation designed to refuel machines safely and easily, featuring a unique vapour recovery system that protects against fuel vapour release and accidental skin contact.
In conclusion, dispensing and distributing fuel in a workplace demands strict adherence to safety regulations and the implementation of appropriate storage and handling practices. By following these guidelines, businesses can mitigate the risks associated with fuel and create a safer environment for employees and the surrounding area.
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Spillages and leaks
Fuel is a hazardous and highly combustible substance, so it must be handled with care. Fuel spillages can be costly and lead to health and environmental issues. A spill can pose several safety and environmental risks, so it is important to have a response plan in place to avoid contamination or injury.
Firstly, it is important to ensure that fuel is only handled by staff with an understanding of safety compliance. Refuelling should take place in a remote area of a site, away from fire hazards. This also ensures that, if a fuel spillage does occur, it is contained in one safe area.
To prevent spillages, it is important to use the right fuel containment equipment. For example, a drip tray will ensure any spillages are contained and must be attached underneath the tank. Another option is a double-walled tank, which means that fuel is completely contained without the risk of leaks or spills.
It is also important to routinely monitor and inspect fuel storage tanks. Above-ground fuel tanks are prone to corrosion due to the nature of the liquids they contain. This corrosion gradually eats away at the tank's shell until leaks or spills take place. To make sure your fuel storage tanks aren't leaking, be sure to monitor their foundations, connections, coatings, tank walls, and piping systems on a periodic basis.
Finally, it is important to educate employees about smart fuelling and spill prevention techniques. For example, staff should know which liquids they can safely deal with as part of their training and which they should leave alone.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no legal limit to the amount of fuel that can be stored at work. However, the amount kept on workplace premises should be 'reasonable' and not exceed expected usage. An accurate risk assessment should also be conducted.
The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) outlines the following requirements:
- Fuel must be stored in well-ventilated areas.
- It should be kept in DSEAR-certified containers.
- If the storage space is also a workroom, no more than 50 litres of highly flammable liquids should be stored.
- If there is dispensing occurring in the workplace, a spill containment strategy is necessary.
Here are some general safety tips:
- Store containers upright and in a stable position to prevent tipping and leakage.
- Use proper lifting equipment and procedures during drum handling and transportation.
- Choose high-quality, durable materials like steel or aluminium for containers.
- Secure tanks to prevent unauthorised access or theft.
- Keep fuel away from living spaces, electrical outlets, and ignition sources.
