Fuel Storage

Diesel isn’t classed as a particularly hazardous substance under the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002. It has a high flash point, so it won’t ignite at normal room temperatures. However, storing diesel is regulated to prevent pollution, and the rules depend on where and how much you store. When storing diesel, you should also consider:

• No hot work should be performed near the tank, such as welding, unless it is emptied and purged of any remaining vapour.

• The tank should be positioned away from any source of direct heat.

• The tank should be located in an area where there is no risk of collision with vehicles, forklift trucks, etc. (diesel splashing onto a hot engine will probably ignite).

• Any leaks and spills outside of the bund should be contained and mopped up quickly.

• Refilling and dispensing activities need to take account of manual handling issues.

• You should ensure that your site insurer is aware that diesel is being stored on site.

While diesel is not a particularly dangerous substance from a health and safety point of view, it is environmentally hazardous, with considerable clean-up costs if it should leak into a drain, watercourse or the soil. It is therefore recommended that you contact the Environment Agency for further information, should you be unsure.