Keeping above-ground fuel tanks safe

Background

On your farm you need to make sure that above-ground fuel tanks are safe and maintained. This includes making sure accessing the tank, fuelling and refuelling activities can be done safely.

Above-ground fuel tanks can become unsafe when the tank or its structure, including ladders and platforms, are impacted by a vehicle, plant or farm machinery or become damaged through corrosion. Spills or leaks from fuel tanks can also present health, safety and environmental hazards.

A simple way to maintain tank safety is to regularly check the tank, the supporting structure and the surrounding area.

What to check on your tank

• Safety handrails are installed around the landing and are in good condition.
• Tank is free from rust and damage.
• Tank is secured to the support structure.
• Ladder is safe and secured, all rungs are in working order and no signs of severe corrosion.
• The air vent is clear of obstructions.
• Tank is clearly labelled identifying the contents and quantity.
• Isolation valve is operating on tank.
• Hose and fittings are in good working order, with no leaks.
• The proper hose nozzle with trigger valve mechanism is installed and in good working order.
• All bracing is present and securely attached.
• Legs and bracing are straight and in good condition, no signs of severe corrosion.
• Fire extinguishers are in date.

Impact protection and spill containment

Impact protection

Tanks must be protected from impact by vehicles and farming equipment. Occupiers must ensure that dangerous goods and any structure, plant, container and/or pipework associated with their storage and handling, such as bulk tanks, are protected against damage from impact with vehicles and mobile plant.

The most effective way to protect against damage by impact is to:

• locate fuel tanks and pipework away from high traffic areas, if possible
• prevent vehicle or mobile plant access to areas where full tanks are located.

If vehicles need to come close to the tank, for example, for filling or refuelling, impact protection such as railings or, bollards must be installed.

Spill containment

Prevent fuel from dripping, leaking or spilling onto the ground, your farm land or into waterways by ensuring spill containment is installed. Spill response kits should contain instructions for use as well as the equipment and personal protective equipment necessary to clean up a spill. This can include absorbent pads, brooms, loose absorbent, and contaminated waste bags in a readily identifiable weather resistant container which are compatible with the liquids stored.

Be sure that the spill containment can contain the fuel that may spill and any spilt dangerous goods do not mix with other not compatible dangerous goods or hazardous substances. This is important during filling and refuelling activities, as the spillage can contaminate soil, waterways and drains.

You must also have equipment and materials to clean up fuel escapes, spills or leaks kept on your farm, and accessible to persons on the farm at all times.

Bunding is the system most used for containing fuel spillages. It can be retrofitted to existing buildings and outdoor installations. Concrete or compacted earth bunding are often used. Bunding must be kept clean and remain clear of debris and all excess water. The bund drain value should always remain closed when dangerous goods are being stored.

Examples of impact protection and spill containment

Fire protection

Appropriate fire protection must be provided for any site or building where flammable or combustible liquids are stored or handled. The fire protection equipment required will depend on the type of fuel storage location and the quantity of flammable liquids stored there.

Table 1

The requirements in Table 1 are set out in The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids AS 1940:2017. 

If the amount of dangerous goods stored and handled at an event exceeds the quantities in Schedule 2 to the Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations 2022, then additional duties apply.

Other things to consider

• Keep rubbish and vegetation, or any possible ignition sources, away from the tank and its structure.
• Check there is a safe way for trucks that are delivering fuel or refuelling, to access the tank.
• Anchor your tank if you are in a flood-prone area.
• Use a lockable nozzle to prevent fuel theft and unauthorised access.
• Having an emergency preparation and response systems in place.

Bottom fill kits are a refuelling method available for farmers. The kits assist with refilling of above- ground fuel tanks from ground level. This method removes the need to climb up a ladder and ensures that fuel suppliers can safely fill the tank from the ground. We encourage farmers to discuss these systems with their fuel supplier before installation and use to ensure they’re fit for purpose.

Consider also talking to your fuel supplier for safety advice, or contact a dangerous goods expert.