Requirements for storing red diesel

Here at Compass Fuel Oils, we are the UK’s leading fuel oil specialists, providing next day delivery across the UK. This includes red diesel delivery and different options for red diesel storage. But what do you need to know about storing your red diesel safely, and within legal guidelines.

What are the requirements for storing red diesel?

There are a number of requirements to bear in mind when it comes to storing your red diesel, and these differ between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The requirements across England are broken down into different sections and include:

  • The amount of red diesel to be stored- If you store more than 200 litres of red diesel, you must adhere to the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001.
  • The location of the storage- The storage tank must be more than 10m away from inland or coastal waters, as well as 50m clear of a spring. The tank should also be away from areas that are at danger from flooding. The should be on floor level or below ground level, never above roof level.
  • The type of storage for the red diesel- A plastic tank must comply with the Oil Firing Technical Association (OFTEC) standard OST T100, while a metal tank must comply to OFTEC standard OFS T200 or British Standard 799-5 and ideally, be stored above ground.
  • The installation of the storage tank- the installation must comply with Building Regulations 2010. If your fuel tank is near a river or water source, the company is required to fit a secondary containment, like a bund to prevent any oil spillages.

What happens if you don’t follow the requirements?

Following the right storage requirements is crucial for the local environment, and if these requirements are not fully followed, water pollution can cause a big problem. For more personal consequences, failure to comply can result in a fine and a court appearance too.

What about mobile bowsers?

Mobile bowsers are not exempt and these must comply with the same oil storage guidelines as set out by DEFRA, across England and Scotland.

Choose Compass Fuels for your fuel storage

We offer a range of fuel storage solutions here at Compass Fuels, including mobile bowsers and fully bunded steel tanks. For capacity from 1000 litres up to 10,000 litres we can provide fuel storage that meets your requirements and needs, as well as the legal requirements that help keep your property and surrounding area safe.

For all your fuel oil needs, from storage tanks to red diesel and heating oil deliveries, we are the team you can count on, here at Compass Fuel Oils.