Do the regulations concern the size of the container or the amount of oil stored in it?
The Oil Storage Regulations 2001 (the regulations) apply to the size of the container rather than the contents.
Sites with an oil tank capacity of 1000 litres, with 199 litres of stored oil, would fall within the regulations.
Domestic properties with a storage tank greater than 3500 litres capacity, with only 2500 litres of stored oil, would fall within the regulations.
Are drums, intermediate bulk containers and mobile bowsers included?
The regulations apply to:
- drums greater than 200 litres capacity
- intermediate bulk containers (IBCs)
- mobile bowsers
There are many types of self-bunded bowsers now available. Bowsers that aren't bunded must be kept in a bunded area of 110 per cent capacity when in use. A drip tray with a capacity of 25 per cent is acceptable for single drums.
We would regard an IBC is being permanent oil storage and the requirements for fixed tanks would apply.
What is the definition of a mobile bowser?
For the purpose of the regulations, a mobile bowser is defined as being:
- an oil storage container that can't move under its own power (not a rigid or articulated road tanker)
- designed for storing and dispensing oil
- able to move between locations
A mobile bowser's design should also prevent oil from being lost from the container in the event of a collision, drop, roll over etc.
Mobile bowsers may have wheels or be transported on or by another vehicle.
The regulations state that trailer-tankers towed by road-tankers of a similar size are not mobile bowsers.
Note that the Carriage of Dangerous Goods (ADR) legislation may apply if you use a mobile bowser on the public highway.
Can I store oil in a road tanker without secondary containment?
You can't store oil in a road tanker that doesn't have secondary containment. This is to discourage people from storing oil in tankers.
Please note that the DEFRA Guidance Note still refers to a specific road and rail tanker exemption which does cause confusion.
Road tankers are not designed to store oil for any length of time and their use for this purpose is discouraged.
We may use our powers under the Anti-Pollution Works Notices Regulations 1999 to require suitable pollution prevention measures based on the risks on site and the costs/benefits to the environment and the owner.
Is an empty tank covered by the regulations?
The regulations are designed to stop oil escaping into the environment.
Many abandoned tanks will have an oily residue at the bottom that could cause pollution.
We advise that redundant tanks are properly decommissioned and removed in line with the waste duty of care.
Where removal is not possible an abandoned tank should be filled with a material that will ensure it can't be used again.
