Oil is an essential commodity for many people, from red diesel and industrial heating oil for businesses to heating oil for homeowners. But storing such substances requires careful handling to avoid spillages or leakages which can result in prosecution.

We’ve put together an infographic with several tips to ensure you safely handle fuels at all times.

10 Tips to Handle Fuel Safely

  1. Fuel is extremely flammable and should therefore be stored in a place that’s unlikely to come into contact with a naked flame.
  2. Ensure your oil tank is stored away from strong winds and rain to help avoid contamination and damage of the tank e.g. in a shaed / garage.
  3. Always store fuel in a specifically designed container – don’t just fill empty bottles / cartons.
  4. Check your oil tank regularly for leaks – if oil escapes and enters a river or lake, legal action can be taken against you.
  5. Fit your oil tank with a secure lock to help avoid theft of its contents
  6. Always use a pouring spout or funnel when filling an oil tank / transferring fuel to avoid spills.
  7. Ensure your oil tank sits on a drip tray to contain any leaks / spills.
  8. Keep a spill kit nearby in case any oil escapes to ensure a prompt response to avoid clean-up costs.
  9. If any fuel gets on your clothes, change them straight away as if you later come into contact with a naked flame, it coud catch fire.
  10. It’s advisable to have a CO2 extinguisher near a fuel storage area.

To assist with safe handling of fuels, we have a wide range of oil dispensing products on offer, including:

  • Barrel taps and pumps
  • Fuel hose
  • Bunded barrel pallets
  • IBC bunded spill pallets
  • Barrel stands

If you’re storing fuels or oils on your premises, no matter whether it’s a commercial or domestic premises. Ensure you’re following all of our tips to keep your fuels and oils safe.

To avoid future problems and potential spillages, speak to our fuel experts to see how we can help you with our range of dispensing products and fuel and oil storage tanks by calling us on 0330 123 3773 today.