Oil Storage Tank Regulations Flashcards

What is the minimum distance a plastic oil storage tank must be sited from a building under the Oil Storage Regulations?

Answer: 1.8 metres from a building (unless fire-protected)

Under Building Regulations and OFTEC guidance, a plastic (polyethylene) oil tank must be at least 1.8 metres from any building, unless a 30-minute fire-rated barrier is installed between the tank and the building.

What is the purpose of a secondary containment (bund) for an oil storage tank?

Answer: To contain oil leaks and spills, preventing environmental contamination

Secondary containment (bunding) catches any oil that leaks from the primary tank, preventing it from contaminating soil, groundwater, or watercourses. It is a legal requirement in many situations under the Oil Storage Regulations.

What percentage of the tank's capacity must the bund be able to hold as a minimum?

Answer: 110% of the tank capacity

The bund must hold at least 110% of the primary tank's capacity. The extra 10% accounts for rainwater accumulation and potential expansion of the oil. This ensures complete containment even in adverse conditions.

Under which UK regulations is oil storage of 3,500 litres or more in a commercial setting specifically controlled?

Answer: The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations

The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001 (and equivalent in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland) set requirements for oil storage above certain thresholds, including mandatory secondary containment.

What is the maximum capacity of a domestic oil storage tank that can be installed without requiring Building Regulations approval in England?

Answer: 3,500 litres

In England, oil storage installations of 3,500 litres or less for domestic use can be self-certified by an OFTEC registered technician without a separate Building Regulations application, provided they comply with all requirements.

What minimum distance must an oil storage tank be from a non-fire-rated boundary?

Answer: 760mm from a non-fire-rated boundary or fence

Oil tanks must be at least 760mm from a non-fire-rated boundary (such as a garden fence) to allow access for maintenance, inspection, and to reduce fire spread risk. Greater distances apply near buildings.