Storing diesel on your job site can be a huge advantage when it comes to convenience – not having to take frequent trips to the fuel station will save you time, and buying fuel in bulk will cut your costs. However, when storing fuel onsite, there are safety requirements that are important to be aware of.
Diesel is a flammable liquid, so when installing a fuel tank onsite, you are required to follow government regulations. It is also important that maintenance is kept up on your tank and ensuring the fuel inside the tank is safe from any contamination or moisture. Contamination (eg. diesel bug) will be more common in tanks where fuel consumption is slower, which is why it is also important you get the right sized tank to suit your fuel requirements.
An aboveground tank is a lot more common when it comes to storing fuel onsite – it being a lot easier to install, inspect, relocate and monitor for any leaks. However, this does mean that maintenance is even more important as they are also more prone to vehicle damage and fuel theft etc.
The 8 tips below will help you to ensure your onsite fuel is stored safely...
- Keep the tank in a well-lit area that is monitored and has proper barriers for protection
- Do not fill your tank further than 95% of the full capacity – if unsure where this is, check the tank’s specifications to get an idea of the Safe Fill Level (SFL)
- Ensure the tank has the correct ‘flammable liquid’ signage
- If using a single skin tank located in a bund, a roof structure is recommended in order to reduce the chance of water collecting in the open bund.
- Proper management of the risks associated with above-ground storage tanks is essential
- Keep up to date with routine inspections so you are aware of anything faulty with the tank
- Ensure staff or anyone who is using the tank is properly trained in how to deal with spills, proper cleanup procedures and how to safely operate the pumping equipment.
- Ensure your tank is installed at a location on your site that is in accordance with government (separation distance requirements) or your local council (resource consents etc) regulations. These regulations can vary depending on your tank size or geographical location. For further information on this, check out the diagram below or feel free to get in touch with one of our team.
When investing in your tank, it will always be helpful to keep the above safety tips in mind. If you do have any other questions around storing fuel onsite, our team at Fuelchief are always happy to help. Contact us here: https://fuelchieftanks.com/contact/contact-us/