How to store oil

Introduction

Oil spills are a common cause of pollution. In the UK there are frequent incidents due to leaks from unbunded tanks, often caused by inadequate storage facilities and equipment.

As well as causing environmental damage, if oil from your site enters the ground or a watercourse, you may have to pay substantial clean-up costs.

This guide sets out legal requirements and good practice for businesses that store oil. It makes recommendations on primary and secondary containment, provides guidance on maintenance and explains what to do if an oil spill occurs.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Complying with oil storage legislation
• Locating your oil storage container
• Using containers to store oil
• Using secondary containment systems
• Pipework
• General maintenance
• Dealing with spills

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