HSG 176

Health and Safety
Executive
Storage of flammable liquids in

tanks
This guidance applies to above and below ground fixed bulk storage tanks. It
applies to premises where flammable liquids are stored in individual tanks or
groups of tanks. It may also be applied to portable or skid-mounted vessels with
capacities in excess of 1000 litres.
It also gives guidance on the design, construction, operation and maintenance of
installation used for the storage of flammable liquids in fixed and transportable
tanks operating at or near atmospheric pressure.
It will help you assess the risks arising from the use of flammable liquids and decide
how to control those risks.
HSG176 (Second
edition) Published 2015
The guidance is one of three documents dealing with fire and explosion hazards
associated with flammable liquids. The other two are:
Storage of flammable liquids in containers HSG51;

Safe use and handling of flammable liquids HSG140.
It supplements the advice contained in Dangerous substances and explosive

atmospheres: Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations
2002. Approved Code of Practice and guidance L138.
The guidance has been updated to align with the recommendations of the
Buncefield report.
HSE Books
Storage of flammable liquids in tanks
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Contents
Introduction5
What the guidance does not apply to 7

Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002
(DSEAR) 7
General fire safety legislation 8
Hazards9
Common causes of incidents 9

Flammable vapours 10
Health hazards 11
Risk assessment 12
Substitution 13
Control measures 14
Containment 14
Separation 14
Ventilation 14
Control of ignition sources 15
Hazardous area classification 15
Controls for off-site risks 19
Recovery 19
Location and layout of tanks 20
Tanks above ground 20
Separation distances for small tanks 22
Separation distances for groups of small tanks 22

Separation distances for large tanks 23
Separation from other dangerous substances 24
Storage of flammable liquids in buildings 25
Underground tanks 25
Design and construction 26

The design of the tank 26
Double-skin storage tanks 26
Corrosion protection 28
Corrosion under insulation 28
Installing the tank 29
Pipework to and from the tank 29
Above-ground pipework 30
Underground pipework 30
Flexible hoses 30
Tank connections and fittings 31
Valves 32
Pumps 32
Contents measurement 33
Tank gauging systems 34
Dipping 34
Vents 34
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Emergency relief venting 35

Bonding and earthing: Static electricity 36
Bunding 36
Marking tanks and fittings 38
Lighting 38
Testing tanks and pipework 39
Heated tanks 39
Temperature control 39
Loading and unloading facilities 41

Loading and unloading road tankers 41
Design of a road tanker loading/unloading facility 41

Rail loading/offloading 42
Operation of road and rail facilities 43
Fire protection 44
Passive fire protection 44
Fire walls 44
Water cooling systems 44
Foam systems 45
Inspection and maintenance 46
Floating-roof tanks 46
Permit-to-work systems 47
Modifying the storage installation 47
Decommissioning tanks 48
Demolishing tanks 48
Fire precautions 49
General fire precautions 49

Emergency procedures 52
Security52
Information and training 52
Signage 53
Higher flashpoint liquids 55
Sources of ignition 55
Location of tanks above ground 55
Storage in buildings 56
Venting 56
Marking and labelling 56
Road and rail tankers 56
Appendix Other relevant health and safety legislation 57
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (the Management
Regulations) 57
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) 57
CLP and CHIP 57
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) 58
Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for Use in Potentially Explosive
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Atmospheres Regulations 1996 (EPS) 58

Planning (Hazardous Substance) Regulations 1992 58
Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites) Regulations 1990
(NAMOS) 58
Control of Major Accident Hazards Regulations 1999 (COMAH) 58
Consulting employees and safety representatives 59
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 59
Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment
Regulations 2009 (CDG) 59
Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 59
Health and Safety Enforcing Authority Regulations 1998 60
Food and Environment Protection Act 1985 (FEPA) 60
Control of pollution (oil storage regulations) 60
Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulations 2014 60
References61
Glossary67
Further information 69
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Introduction
1 This guidance applies to above and below ground fixed bulk storage tanks.
It applies to premises where flammable liquids are stored in individual tanks or
groups of tanks. It may also be applied to portable or skid-mounted vessels with
capacities in excess of 1000 litres.
2 It also gives guidance on the design, construction, operation and maintenance
of installations used for the storage of flammable liquids in fixed and transportable
tanks operating at or near atmospheric pressure. It will help you assess the risks
arising from the use of flammable liquids, and decide how to control the risks.
3 The guidance is for those responsible for the safe storage of flammable liquids.
It provides information on the fire and explosion hazards associated with flammable
liquids and sets out practical measures to protect people at work and others who
may be affected by work activities involving flammable liquids. It is relevant to many
industries such as:
chemical;
petrochemical;
paints;
solvents;
pharmaceutical.
4 Advice is provided on transfer facilities for road and rail loading and unloading.
5 The guidance is one of three documents published by HSE dealing with the fire
and explosion hazards associated with flammable liquids. The other two
documents are:
Storage of flammable liquids in containers HSG51;1

Safe use and handling of flammable liquids HSG140.2
6 This document complements Dangerous substances and explosive

atmospheres. Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations
2002. Approved Code of Practice and guidance L138.3 You will be referred to
L138 for additional information.
7 The guidance will also provide a useful source of reference for:
employees;
employee-elected representatives;
trade union appointed health and safety representatives; and
all other people who have a role in ensuring and assessing the adequacy of
health and safety in the workplace.
8 The guidance may also be useful to professional bodies, trade organisations

and associations, and other safety specialists to inform the development of more
specific guidance for their own members.
9 The objectives of this guidance are to:
increase awareness of the potential fire and explosion hazards associated with
the storage of flammable liquids;
give guidance on appropriate standards for plant and equipment;
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advise on the need for appropriate fire precautions, maintenance, training and
good housekeeping where flammable liquids are stored.
10 In this guidance, flammable liquid means a liquid with a flashpoint of 60 C or

below. This reflects the EU Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Substances
and Mixtures Regulation (no 1272/2008) (the CLP Regulation), which sets the
criterion for substances and mixtures to be classified as flammable to be those with
a flashpoint of up to 60 C. The guidance is also relevant to liquids with a flashpoint
above 60 C which are handled at temperatures above their flashpoint, as they may
also present a fire and explosion hazard.
11 This publication provides a suitable standard for the design of new installations
and for major modifications to existing installations. It may be difficult to adopt all
the recommendations at existing premises, but any improvements that are
reasonably practicable should be made, taking into account the hazards at the site
and the cost and feasibility of additional precautions. This document describes
ways of achieving an adequate standard of safety. Individual circumstances, for
both new and existing installations, may require variations from the
recommendations, so alternative designs, materials and methods can be used as
long as they provide an equivalent level of safety. Advice on applying the guidance
to specific sites may be obtained from the relevant trade association or health and
safety professional.
12 The storage of flammable liquids and the management of any released vapours
can have environmental consequences. Although this guidance does not cover
environmental issues, the advice it contains for the safe storage of flammable
liquids will generally also provide protection for the environment. However, some
activities, such as reducing vapour levels by ventilation techniques, may require
additional environmental controls; those involved in these activities are advised to
refer to specific guidance on these controls and on other environmental issues.
Further guidance on environmental considerations is available from:
the Environment Agency in England www.environment-agency.gov.uk/

business/sectors/wastemanagement.aspx
the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) in Scotland
www.sepa.org.uk/waste.aspx
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru
http://naturalresourceswales.gov.uk
13 Following the fire and explosion at Buncefield in 2005, additional

recommendations were made by the Process Safety Leadership Group (PSLG) for
the storage of gasoline and a small range of other liquids in large tanks. The final
report of PSLG, Safety and environmental standards for fuel storage sites4 can be
found on the HSE website. Details of the other liquids which may be in scope can
be found in the Chemicals and Downstream Oil Industries Forum (CDOIF)
Guideline: Process Safety Leadership Group Other Products in Scope.5
14 The precautions described in this document may not be necessary for those
flammable liquids whose temperature is always likely to be significantly below the
flashpoint and where there is no potential for a flammable mist or spray to form.
Advice on less restrictive measures for these liquids is given in the chapter
Higher flashpoint liquids. Where no variation is given, the advice in the main text
applies.
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What the guidance does not apply to

15 This guidance does not apply to:
flammable liquids stored in portable containers and drums with capacities of

1000 litres or less. These are covered by Storage of flammable liquids in
containers HSG51.1 Generally, the storage of flammable liquids in fixed bulk
tanks is preferable to storage of the same quantity in drums or similar
containers, as spillage during handling is reduced;
flammable liquids which present special hazards requiring specific precautions
and storage conditions (such as ethylene oxide, peroxides and other liquids
which entail a risk of rapid decomposition, polymerisation or spontaneous
combustion);
petroleum kept in fixed tanks at retail filling stations. Guidance on filling stations
and similar private premises is available in Petrol Filling Stations Guidance on
Managing The Risks Of Fire & Explosion (The Red Guide).6
carriage of flammable liquids (on or off site), including temporary storage at lorry
parks and transit areas;
liquefied petroleum gas and other substances which are gases at ambient
temperature and pressure but are stored as liquids under pressure or
refrigeration;
flammable liquids stored under pressure. In these cases the guidance on LPG
storage (UKLPG Code of Practice)7 may be appropriate;
vessels, which are an integral part of process plant;
loading and unloading of ships. This is covered by The bulk transfer of
dangerous liquids and gases between ship and shore HSG1868 and
International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals.9
filling from pipelines. Additional advice is also contained in the International Oil
Tanker and Terminal Safety Guide.
16 Health and safety legislation relevant to sites manufacturing, using or storing

flammable liquids is outlined below. Legal requirements, guidance and the
standards referred to in this publication are subject to amendment from time to
time. Where a British Standard is quoted, any other national or international
standard which provides an equivalent level of safety is acceptable. The glossary at
the back of this book explains the particular terms used in association with
flammable liquids.
Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres

Regulations 2002 (DSEAR)
17 Avoiding fire or explosion at workplaces manufacturing, storing or using
flammable liquids can be ensured by compliance with DSEAR. The primary
purpose of DSEAR is to protect the safety of workers and others who may be at
risk from dangerous substances that can cause a fire, explosion or similar energyreleasing event, such as a runaway exothermic reaction.
18 DSEAR is enforced by HSE or local authority inspectors, except at commercial
premises holding a petroleum storage certificate (previously a petroleum licence)
where the Regulations are enforced by Petroleum Enforcing Authorities (PEAs) in
respect of any activities related to refuelling motor vehicles. At most workplaces,
the local fire and rescue authority or the joint fire and rescue board for the area will
enforce those parts of DSEAR that relate to general fire precautions (see
paragraphs 247 to 261).
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General fire safety legislation

19 General fire safety requirements in the workplace in England and Wales are
applied through the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (SI 2005/1541).
The Scottish equivalents are the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 (2005 (asp 5)) and the Fire
Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (SSI 2006/456). The legislation consolidated
and revoked legislation that previously covered general fire safety, including the
requirement for fire certification. Current legislation requires the employer to carry
out a risk assessment to determine the general fire safety requirements for their
workplace and implement those requirements, including maintaining a general fire
safety management plan.
20 General fire safety legislation is normally enforced by the local fire and rescue
authority or in Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. However, there are
other enforcing authorities for certain specific workplaces/worksites. HSE is the
enforcing authority for general fire safety in shipbuilding and on most construction
sites. The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) is the enforcing authority for fire
safety in licensed nuclear premises.
21 Any general fire safety provision which could be imposed by regulations 16, 8,
9 and 11 of DSEAR is covered instead under this general fire safety legislation, with
enforcement responsibility falling to the relevant authority, depending on the activity
at the premises.
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Hazards
22 The main hazards from the use of flammable liquids are fire and explosion,
involving either the liquid or the vapour given off from it. For a fire or explosion to
occur it requires three things to come together:
flammable liquid;
source of ignition; and
air.
FUEL
Flammable gases
Flammable liquids
Flammable solids
OXYGEN
Always present in the air
Additional sources from
oxidising substances
IGNITION SOURCE
Hot surfaces
Electrical equipment
Static electricity
Smoking/naked flames
Figure 1 The fire triangle
Common causes of incidents

23 Fires or explosions are likely to occur when vapours or liquids are released from
a controlled environment to areas where there may be an ignition source, or,
alternatively, when an ignition source is introduced into a controlled environment.
Common causes of such incidents include:
lack of awareness of the properties of flammable liquids;

operator error, due to lack of training;
hot work on or close to flammable liquid containers;
inadequate design of equipment;
inadequate installation or maintenance;
failure or malfunction of equipment;
exposure to heat from a nearby fire;
misuse of flammable liquids, for example, to burn waste materials or brighten
fires;
inadequate control of ignition sources;
electrostatic discharges;
heating materials above their auto-ignition temperature;
dismantling or disposing of equipment containing flammable liquids.
24 Incidents involving flammable liquids commonly arise during transfer operations,

including:
movement from storage;

decanting or dispensing;
movement within premises;
use in processes;
disposal;
dealing with spillages.
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Flammable vapours
25 Combustion of liquids occurs when flammable vapours released from the
surface of the liquid ignite. The amount of flammable vapour given off from a liquid,
and therefore the extent of the fire or explosion hazard, depends largely on the
temperature of the liquid, its volatility, how much of the surface area is exposed,
how long it is exposed for, and air movement over the surface. Other physical
properties of the liquid, such as flashpoint, auto-ignition temperature (AIT), viscosity,
lower explosion limit (LEL) and upper explosion limit (UEL), give further information
as to how vapour/air mixtures may develop and also on the potential hazards.
Flashpoint
26 Flashpoint is the lowest temperature at which a liquid gives off vapour in
sufficient concentration to form a combustible mixture with air near the surface of
the liquid. Generally, a liquid with a flashpoint below ambient temperature will give
off a vapour that can mix with air and be ignited. Liquids with a flashpoint greater
than ambient temperature are less likely to give off flammable concentrations of
vapours unless they are heated, mixed with low flashpoint materials or released
under pressure as a mist or spray. However, a material below its flashpoint can also
be ignited when spread out as a thin film over a large area of ground or when
spilled onto clothing.
Explosion limits
27 The explosion limits define the concentrations (normally by volume) of vapour
air mixtures at specified temperatures that will propagate a flame. Explosion limits
vary greatly for different substances, but for many they are in the range of 1% to
10%.
Vapours
28 Some materials, such as water/solvent mixtures or emulsions, only release
vapours slowly. These materials can flash during a flashpoint determination and be
assigned a flashpoint, but may not have the ability to sustain combustion at the
temperatures encountered in normal use, though these may well be in excess of
the measured flashpoint. However, flammable vapours may build up in enclosed
spaces above the liquid, and could explode if ignited.
Viscosity
29 The viscosity of the liquid is significant as it determines how far any spilt
material will spread and therefore the size of any exposed surface. Solvents
generally have a low viscosity and when spilt spread quickly, allowing a rapid buildup of vapours from the surface of the liquid. Some liquid formulations, such as
paints and resins, may have a high viscosity; if they are spilt, they spread and
produce vapours more slowly than would the individual solvent constituents.
Ignition
30 A flammable vapourair mix is easily ignited by the external ignition sources
discussed in paragraph 52. Even if there are no external sources present the
mixture may self-ignite if it is heated above its auto-ignition temperature. The
properties of a flammable liquid should therefore be established (for example, from
the relevant data sheet) before the material is used, so that adequate precautions
can be taken.
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Physical environment
31 The physical environment in which flammable liquids are handled also
determines how the hazards may develop. Whether the released vapour is able to
build up to a concentration within its flammable range will depend on the ventilation
at the surface of the liquid and on the presence of enclosures to trap or contain the
vapours. In many cases the vapour will be heavier than air, and it will therefore tend
to accumulate in lower areas or in depressions such as pits, gulleys and drains.
Bear in mind that vapours can spread away from the liquid; if they are ignited the
flame will travel or flash back to the liquid.
32 Typical fire and explosion events include:
pool fire where the released flammable liquid forms a pool (often within the
bund);
jet fire where the flammable liquid is released under pressure;
tank fire where the liquid or its vapour burn within the tank (or on the surface of
a floating roof tank);
rim seal fire on a floating roof tank where a fire burns at the rim seal area only;
vapour cloud explosion where flammable vapours accumulate in an enclosed or
partially enclosed area and on ignition produce significant over-pressures.
Health hazards
33 Flammable liquids can also pose a health hazard if they are inhaled, ingested or
come into contact with skin or eyes. Information on the health hazards of a
particular liquid and on any specific precautions required should be obtained from
the safety data sheet or from the supplier. COSHH (see Appendix) requires
employers to assess the risks from exposure to hazardous substances and the
precautions needed.
34 An obvious precaution to take against skin and eye contact is to provide items
such as gloves, protective clothing and goggles. Suitable respiratory protection may
be needed during any operations to deal with leaks and spillages.
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Risk assessment
35 In addition to the requirements under the Management of Health and Safety at
Work Regulations (the Management Regulations) (see Appendix), where flammable
liquids are intentionally present in the workplace, there is a specific requirement
under regulation 5 of DSEAR for you to identify the potential risks such activity may
pose to your employees and others whose health and safety may be affected, and
to determine the measures to be taken to eliminate or reduce these risks so far as
reasonably practicable.
36 The risk assessment required under DSEAR may be carried out as part of the
risk assessment requirements of the Management Regulations and general fire
safety legislation, which follows the same approach as that used in health and
safety legislation. In particular, given the need to take account of the presence of
flammable liquids in the general fire safety risk assessment, you may find it of
benefit to carry out the required risk assessments as a consolidated exercise.
37 A risk assessment should be carried out regardless of the quantity of flammable
liquid present at the workplace, as it will enable you to decide whether existing
measures are sufficient or whether any additional controls or precautions are
necessary. As well as assessing the normal activities within the workplace, you will
also need to assess non-routine activities, such as maintenance work, where there
is often a higher potential for fire and explosion incidents to occur. If there is no risk
to safety from fires and explosions, or the risk is trivial, no further action is needed.
If there are risks, then you must consider what you need to do to comply fully with
the requirements of DSEAR.
38 Further guidance on the risk assessment requirement under DSEAR is given in
L138.
39 This guidance assumes that you have concluded from your risk assessment
that the storage of flammable liquids in tanks is appropriate at your workplace.
40 The performance objectives and control measures described in this guidance
reflect current and readily achievable good industrial practice and are intended to
help you minimise the risks associated with the storage of flammable liquids in
tanks. You are free to take alternative measures, or vary those described, if you
have determined through your risk assessment that they provide at least an
equivalent level of health and safety.
41 The assessment should include risks arising from the tank contents, from the
associated operational activities, and risks to the tank from external sources. The
aims of the assessment are to determine:
how the flammable liquid could be released;

the consequences of such a release;
how such a release could be ignited;
what external risks are present;
how to mitigate the consequences of a release.
42 Factors which should be considered when assessing a storage installation include:
storage capacity;
location of the tank, in relation to site boundaries, buildings, process areas and
fixed sources of ignition;
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design standards for the installation;

quantities and locations of other flammable liquids;
quantities and locations of other dangerous substances;
tank contents and any likely residues;
activities on adjacent premises;
training and competence of site operatives;
supervision of staff;
frequency of deliveries;
loading and unloading operations;
inspection and maintenance;
the surrounding environment.
43 Guidance and further details of the requirements of DSEAR can be found in the
Approved Code of Practice L138.
44 Risk assessments should be carried out before the installation of new facilities,
modification of existing facilities and the demolition of obsolete facilities.
Substitution
45 In some instances, such as at production sites, it may be possible to eliminate
or reduce the quantity of flammable liquid on site. For some processes, higher
flashpoint or water-based products are now available. It may be practicable to
reduce the storage inventory by better planning and stock control, by maintaining
smaller buffer stocks and by removing from site any materials which are no longer
used in the process.
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Control measures
46 This section will briefly describe control measures for the storage of flammable
liquids. More detailed information is supplied in later sections of the book.
Containment
47 Flammable liquids should be stored in tanks or containers and systems
constructed to a national or international standard to ensure their strength and
integrity. Further information is given in chapter Design and construction.
48 There should also be means to contain spillage and fire water to prevent it
spreading to other parts of the premises. Information on bunding is given in
paragraphs 154169 and on fire water control in paragraphs 6265.
49 PSLG requirements4 apply to tanks storing gasoline (petrol) and a small range
of similar liquids in vertical cylindrical tanks greater than 5 m in height and filled at
rates exceeding 100 m3/hour. For in-scope tanks there are additional safety and
environmental measures the CDOIF Guideline: Process Safety Leadership Group
Other Products in Scope.5
Separation
50 Separation is an important means of providing protection for tanks containing
flammable liquids. Separation has particular advantages because it protects people
and property from the effects of a fire at the tank, and protects the tank from fires
which may occur elsewhere on site. Further advice on the recommended
separation distances is given in chapter Location and layout of tanks.
Ventilation
51 Good ventilation ensures that any flammable vapours given off from a spill,
leak or release will be rapidly dispersed. This may be achieved by locating storage
tanks, transfer facilities, vent pipes etc in the open air, in an unobstructed
position. Locating plant and storage facilities in the open air normally ensures the
best possible dispersion of dangerous substances to limit the formation and
extent of hazardous explosive atmospheres. Certain features may affect the ready
dispersal of any releases of dangerous substances, eg buildings, pits, and
structures providing weather protection. Employers should ensure, as
appropriate:
these are sufficient distance away; or

they are of suitable design to prevent the accumulation of dangerous
substances; and
where necessary, the ground is graded to direct vapours away from occupied
buildings and vulnerable populations (eg to provide safe dispersal of vapourising
liquid leaks from fixed liquefied gas vessels).
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Control of ignition sources

52 In certain areas, flammable atmospheres may occur either during normal
operation or due to accidental spills or leakage. These areas are called hazardous
areas, and measures to control the introduction of sources of ignition are required
in these areas. Common ignition sources include:
unprotected electrical and mechanical equipment;

naked flames including welding and cutting equipment;
smoking materials;
vehicles with internal combustion engines;
hot surfaces;
frictional heating or sparking;
static electricity;
lightning.
Further advice can be found in BS EN 1127-1.10
Hazardous area classification

53 Regulation 7 of DSEAR requires employers to classify places at the workplace
where an explosive atmosphere may occur into hazardous and non-hazardous areas.
54 Hazardous area classification (HAC) (see L138, regulation 7 and Schedules
24) is the method used to identify areas where flammable concentrations of
gases or vapours are likely to be present. The aim is to reduce to a minimum
acceptable level the probability of a flammable atmosphere coinciding with an
electrical or other ignition source. It is normally used to select fixed electrical and
mechanical equipment, but it can also be used in the control of other potential
ignition sources such as portable electrical equipment, hot surfaces and vehicles.
Advice is available in BS EN 60079-1011 and also in Energy Institute Model Code
of Safe Practice Part 15: Area classification code for petroleum installations
handling flammable fluids.12
55 For flammable vapours there are three classes of hazardous area or zone: zone 0,
zone 1 and zone 2. A zone is an area around a process or activity where a
flammable atmosphere may be present. The definitions of hazardous zones and
further details on hazardous area classification definitions may be found in L138
(regulation 7 and Schedules 24).
56 Any area which does not meet these criteria is unclassified and no special
precautions are required in relation to storage tanks.
57 The extent of the zones will depend on:
rate of release;
ventilation;
design of the tank;
the source of the release;
the flashpoint; and
vapour density.
58 Examples of hazardous area classification for a fixed-roof tank and tanker-filling

installations are shown in Figure 2, Figure 3 and Figure 4. These examples are for
general guidance only, as local conditions should always be taken into account
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when carrying out a classification.

59 Lightning protection may need to be considered where it could be an initiator of
3 m from
vent openings
Zone 0
3 m horizontally
from the tank
and above
roof
Liquid suface
Zone 1
Zone 2
Bund
wall
Bund
wall
a major incident.
Figure 2 Vertical storage tank typical hazardous area classification
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1.5 m
horizontally
from
Zone 1
1.5 m
horizontally
from source
of release
Horizontally to
island (gantry)
boundary
1.5 m
horizontally
from
Zone 1
1m
above
Zone 1
1.5 m
vertically
from
source
of
release
4.5 m
horizontally
from
drainage
channel
1m
above
ground
Drainage
channel
Zone 1
(NB Fall prevention system and canopy have been omitted for illustrative purposes)
Zone 2
Figure 3 Tanker filling installation for highly flammable liquids typical hazardous area
classification
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1 m radius
Means of
spillage
containment
1 m radius
1m
R1
R1
Side elevation
Ullage space = Zone 0
1 m radius
Zone 1
Zone 2
1m
radius
See note X
1m
End elevation
Boundary of transient hazardous area - see notes X and Y
1m
1 m radius
1 m radius
Adjoining loading island Zone 1
X: Transient hazardous areas normally free from hazard when

no spillage is present, or for Class II(1) and III(1) materials.
Plan
Y: If weather roofing is provided, all space above the Zone 1 area will be
Zone 2 up to the roof.
(NB Fall prevention system and canopy have been omitted for illustrative purposes)
Figure 4 Road tanker equipped for bottom loading with vapour collection during loading
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60 Where reasonably practicable, electrical equipment should be installed in nonhazardous areas. Where this cannot be done, equipment should be selected,
installed and maintained in accordance with the Equipment and Protective Systems
for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 1996 (see Appendix).
61 When a hazardous area classification has been carried out, the location of the
zones should be recorded on a plan. This may then be used to prevent sources of
ignition being brought into hazardous areas. The hazardous area classification
drawing could be in the form of two separate drawings showing a simplified
approach to the configuration of the plant. Such drawings should be supplemented
by text giving information about the flammable liquids that will be present, the work
activities that have been considered, and other assumptions made by the study.
The drawings and documents should be retained as part of the documentation in
support of the risk assessment carried out under regulation 5 of DSEAR. The
information in these documents should be considered whenever new equipment is
to be introduced into a zoned area.
Controls for off-site risks

62 The potential consequences of spillages of flammable liquid, with or without fire,
to cause environmental harm should also be considered. Advice on assessing
environmental risks can be obtained from the environment agencies.
63 In the event of fire, and fire water run-off can place a major strain on normal
drainage facilities interceptors or special drainage schemes may be necessary,
particularly at large installations, to minimise the risk of contaminating local water
courses. In developing appropriate emergency procedures for the workplace, you
may need to consult with the appropriate agencies and the local fire authority.
Relevant guidance can be found in:
Environment Agency/SEPA Pollution Prevention Guidelines: Managing fire and

water and major spillages PPG18;13
Control of fire-water run-off from CIMAH sites to prevent environmental damage
EH70;14
Containment systems for the prevention of pollution CIRIA.15
64 Formal on-site and off-site emergency plans are required at sites subject to
COMAH. See Emergency planning for major accidents: Control of Major Accident
Hazards Regulations 1999 (COMAH) HSG191.16
Recovery
65 You should have arrangements for making the situation safe after an incident,
for example:
safe recovery and clean-up of spilt flammable liquids;

repairing or decommissioning leaking or unsafe plant;
making safe damaged or unstable buildings.
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Location and layout of tanks

66 The location and layout of a storage installation should be selected with care.
The aims are to protect people and property from the effects of a fire at the tank,
and to protect the tank from fires which may occur elsewhere on site.
67 Storage tanks may be located above ground, underground or in mounds. Each
location has different advantages and disadvantages. Storage at ground level in the
open air has advantages because leaks are more readily detected and contained,
and any vapour produced will normally be dispersed by natural ventilation.
Examinations, modifications and repairs are also easier, and corrosion can be more
readily identified and controlled.
68 Underground or mounded tanks give better fire protection and save space, but
leakage resulting from damage or corrosion may be difficult to detect. This could
lead to ground contamination, environmental impact to land, surface water and
groundwater, and possible fire and explosion risks to nearby buildings and
basements.
69 When selecting the location of a single or multi-tank installation, you should
consider the distance of the proposed storage from:
the site boundary and any off-site receptors such as vulnerable populations or
sensitive environments;
on-site buildings, particularly those that are occupied;
fixed ignition sources;
storage or processing of other dangerous substances;
road or rail tanker transfer facilities.
70 Other factors to consider are:
the position of the tanks (above ground or below ground);

their size and capacity;
their design (fixed roof or floating roof).
71 Tanks should not be located:
under buildings;
on the roofs of buildings;
in positions raised unnecessarily high above ground level;
on top of one another;
above tunnels, culverts or sewers.
72 Tank locations inside buildings should be avoided (but see paragraphs 8487).
Tanks above ground

73 Tanks above ground should be sited in a well-ventilated position separated
from the site boundary, occupied buildings, sources of ignition and process areas.
Figure 5 shows a plan of a typical layout for storage tanks. The layout of tanks
should always take into account the accessibility needed for the emergency
services. Vertical tanks are normally mounted on a suitable base directly on the
ground, horizontal tanks are usually mounted on saddles above ground. In some
circumstances it may be necessary to raise the tank to provide suction head for a
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pump or to allow gravity discharge. When this is necessary, the tank should only be
raised to the minimum amount.
Boundary fence
See
Table 1
See
paragraph 190
See
paragraphs
213 and 214
Bund division
See
Table
2
See
paragraphs
213 and 214
Tanker stand
Bund
wall
Fire wall
Pumps
See
Table 3
See
Table 1
Process
area
Figure 5 Typical layout of storage tanks showing separation distances
74 The separation distances will depend on various factors but primarily on the
capacity of the tank. Advice on separation distances is given for small tanks,
generally associated with small to medium chemical processes, and for large
tanks associated with refinery and other large-scale storage facilities.
75 The separation distances given are unlikely to give complete protection in the
event of a fire or explosion involving the tank, but should allow sufficient time for
people to be evacuated, provided there are adequate means of escape. They
should also allow sufficient time for additional firefighting equipment and emergency
procedures to be mobilised.
76 Under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to increase the separation
distances or provide additional fire protection. Such circumstances may include:
where there are problems with the local water supply;

where the site is remote from external help (such as the fire and rescue service);
where the tank is close to a heavily populated area.
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77 The separation distances recommended in Table 1 below are based on

common industry practice for standard conditions. Where non-standard conditions
occur, fire consequence modelling could be carried out to determine the required
separation distance for specific circumstances.
Separation distances for small tanks

78 In this guidance, small tanks are considered to be tanks with a diameter of
less than 10 m. Table 1 shows the minimum recommended separation distances
for single small tanks. The distances are based on widely accepted industry
practice. The minimum separation distance is the minimum distance between any
point on the tank and any building, boundary, process unit, or fixed source of
ignition.
Table 1 Minimum recommended separation distances for single small tanks from site
boundaries, buildings, process areas and fixed sources of ignition
Tank capacity (m3)
Separation distance (m)
Less than or equal to 1
1*
Greater than 1 and less than or equal to 5
10
Greater than 250
15
* But at least 2 m from doors, plain-glazed windows, or other openings or means of escape. Also not
below any opening (including building eaves and means of escape) from an upper floor, regardless of
vertical distance.
Separation distances for groups of small tanks

79 Small tanks may be placed together in groups. A tank is considered as part of
a group if adjacent tanks are within the separation distances given in Table 1. The
aggregate capacity of the group should be no more than 8000 m3 and the tanks
should be arranged so that they are all accessible for firefighting purposes.
80 The recommended minimum separation distances between individual tanks in a
group are given in Table 2. If a serious fire develops involving one tank in a group
then it is unlikely that these between-tank separation distances will prevent damage
or even destruction of the adjacent tanks. However, they should allow sufficient
time for emergency procedures to be implemented and for people to be evacuated
from areas threatened by the incident.
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Table 2 Minimum between-tank separation distances for groups of small tanks

Tank size
Recommended separation distance between tanks
Less than or equal to 100 m3
The minimum required for safe construction and operation
Greater than 100 m3 but less

than 10 m in diameter
Equal to or greater than 2 m
81 For the purpose of determining separation distances from site boundaries,

buildings, process areas and fixed sources of ignition, a group of small tanks may
be regarded as one tank. The minimum recommended separation distances for
groups of small tanks are given in Table 3. The minimum recommended separation
distance between adjacent groups of small tanks is 15 m.
Table 3 Minimum recommended separation distances for groups of small tanks from site
boundaries, buildings, process areas and fixed sources of ignition
Total capacity of the group (m3)
Separation distance (m)
Less than or equal to 3
1*
10
15
* But at least 2 m from doors, plain-glazed windows, or other openings or means of escape. Also not
below any opening (including building eaves and means of escape) from an upper floor, regardless of
vertical distance.
Separation distances for large tanks

82 The minimum recommended separation distances for large tanks are given in
Table 4. The table is based on the Energy Institutes Model Code of Safe Practice
Part 19: Fire precautions at petroleum refineries and bulk storage installations.17
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Table 4 Minimum separation distances for large tanks

Factor
Minimum separation from any part of the tank
Between adjacent fixed-roof tanks
Equal to the smaller of the following:

the diameter of the smaller tank
half the diameter of the larger tank
15 m, but not less than 10 m
Between adjacent floating-roof tanks
10 m for tanks up to and including 45 m

diameter
15 m for tanks over 45 m diameter
The spacing is determined by the size of the larger

tank
Between a floating-roof tank and a
fixed-roof tank
Equal to the smaller of the following:

the diameter of the smaller tank;
half the diameter of the larger tank;
not less than 10 m
Between a group of small tanks and

any tank outside the group
15 m
Between a tank and the site boundary, 15 m

any designated non-hazardous area,
process area or any fixed source of
ignition
Separation from other dangerous substances

83 Separation may also be used to prevent or delay the spread of fire to and from
storage or process areas where other dangerous substances may be present in
quantity. Table 5 shows the minimum recommended separation distances from
LPG storage. Table 1 may be used to estimate separation distances from other
hazardous substances. If published guidance exists for the particular hazardous
substance concerned, the recommended minimum separation distance is the
greater of the distances given in Table 1 and the relevant guidance.
Table 5 Minimum recommended separation distance
LPG cylinders
(>50 kg total
capacity)
LPG vessels
(up to 135 m3)
LPG vessel
(over 135 m3)
Flammable liquid
(flashpoint <32 C)
3 m to bund wall
6 m to bund wall
15 m to bund wall
Flammable liquid
(flashpoint 3265 C)
Tank size up to
3000 litres
3 m to bund wall
3 m to bund wall
6 m to bund wall
Flammable liquid
(flashpoint 3265 C)
Tank size over 3000
litres
3 m to bund wall
3 m to bund wall
15 m to bund wall
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Storage of flammable liquids in buildings

84 Storage of flammable liquids in bulk tanks within buildings should be avoided if
possible. If storage is required in buildings then only the minimum amount should
be stored and for the minimum time, preferably no more than that needed for one
day or one shift.
85 Additional safety measures may be needed for the building. These include:
a single-storey and generally non-combustible construction;

a lightweight roof or other means of explosion relief. Where this is not reasonably
practicable an acceptable alternative is to provide sufficient mechanical ventilation
to remove flammable vapour released in the event of an incident;
a high standard of natural ventilation, using high and low-level openings in the
walls (typically 2.5% of the total wall and roof leading directly to the open air).
Alternatively, if natural ventilation is not possible, permanent mechanical
ventilation can be used, equivalent to at least five air changes per hour;
fire separation (by means of a partition of at least 30 minutes fire resistance)
between the part of the building housing the tank and other parts of the
building, or other buildings within 4 m; and
adequate means of escape.
86 The tank should have the following features:
effective means of preventing the spread of leakage. Where appropriate the

building walls may form part of the bund, providing they are impervious, have
sufficient strength and doorways are fitted with kerbs, ramps or sills;
vents which discharge to a safe place in the open air.
87 Adequate means of cooling the tank surface in the event of fire in the building
may be needed. In some cases this may be done using portable equipment, but in
others a fixed water installation may be necessary. Controlled drainage is essential
to avoid tank flotation and local flooding. Further advice on bund drainage can be
found in paragraphs 163167.
Underground tanks
88 The minimum recommended separation distance from any underground tank to
any building line is at least 2 m, to avoid undermining the building foundations. It is
advisable to increase this distance to 6 m for a basement or pit, to minimise the
risk of vapour accumulation.
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Design and construction

The design of the tank
89 To ensure mechanical integrity, storage tanks should be designed and
constructed in accordance with a British, European or international standard (see
list in references section).18
90 The materials used in the construction of the tank or, where appropriate, the
tank lining, should be compatible with the chemical and physical properties of the
liquid, to ensure that no interaction occurs which might cause failure of the tank.
91 Above-ground tanks are generally constructed of steel or other material which
can withstand for a short period the effects of direct flame impingement or radiant
heat from a fire in the vicinity. If glass reinforced plastic (GRP) tanks are installed
above ground, then they may need additional precautions to ensure that their
integrity is not lost rapidly in the event of fire. For guidance on GRP see HSE
guidance notes Glass reinforced plastic vessels and tanks PM7519 and
Thermoplastic tank integrity management PM86.20
92 Where a manhole is fitted to a tank, it should be at least 460 mm inside
diameter. For tanks over 2 m in diameter and for tanks where personnel may have
to wear protective clothing and breathing apparatus for entry, the manhole should
be at least 600 mm inside diameter.
93 If the tank is to be heated, additional precautions may be needed. These are
outlined in paragraphs 176178.
94 Tanks may be compartmented. Different materials should not be stored in the
same tank, if leakage from one compartment to another is likely to cause a hazard.
Mixing of chemically incompatible materials may cause an unwanted and possibly
dangerous reaction within the tank. Even accidental mixing of apparently
compatible solvents may create a hazard if the contaminated solvent is then fed
into a process.
95 Figure 6 and Figure 7 show examples of horizontal and vertical tank
installations. Figure 8 shows a typical underground tank installation.
Double-skin storage tanks

96 A double-skin storage tank could be considered as a tank within a tank. The
space between the tanks is kept to a minimum and should be used to monitor
the soundness of both the inner and outer skin. The monitoring system should be
an intrinsically safe system using either liquid level, vacuum or pressure to provide
an alarm if one of the skins fails. This is of particular benefit for tanks below
ground. Initial and ongoing integrity management should be applied to doubleskin storage tanks. See paragraph 221 and APEA publication Guidance for
Design, Construction, Modification, Maintenance and Decommissioning of Filling
Stations.21
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Vent
Handrail
Fill line
Dip
tube
Bund
wall
Pump
Drain valve
Earth line
Figure 6 Typical horizontal storage tank (top discharge)
Vent
Dip
tube
Fill
line
Pump
Discharge line
Drain
Bund
wall
Earth line
Figure 7 Typical vertical storage tank (top filled)

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Vent
Offtake to pump
Combined dip
and fill pipe
Concrete pad
Backfill
Earth
Figure 8 Typical underground tank
Corrosion protection
97 Corrosion is one of the main causes of equipment failure. It can occur both
internally and externally at any exposed metal surface. Protection may be provided
by paints or other coatings see BS EN ISO 12944-1.22 Cathodic protection may
be used as an additional precaution (see international standard AP 620).18
98 Chemical-resistant coatings or paints are available. These are generally sprayed
on in several layers to the required thickness. Coatings should be inspected for
thickness, continuity and hardness prior to installing the tank. For underground
tanks, a bituminous coating can be applied using the appropriate standards
(BS 341623 and BS 6949.24
99 Internal corrosion may result from the accumulation of water in the tank. A
means to remove such water may be necessary. Caution is essential when draining
water from beneath the product. Reliance on a single valve to retain the tank
contents is not sufficient. Two permanent in-line valves to the drainage point are
recommended, or temporary replacement of the blanking plate by a second valve
during the draining operation.
100 Certain flammable liquids can be aggressively corrosive and may merit
consideration of alternative tank floor design. BS EN 14015 offers an alternative
double-bottom configuration. If adopted, robust integrity management
arrangements should be provided in line with EEMUA publication 159.25
Corrosion under insulation

101 Corrosion may occur unnoticed under thermal insulation or lagging. Corrosion
under insulation should be addressed as part of the planned preventive
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maintenance schedule for the site. Further guidance can be found from European
Federation of Corrosion Working Party 13: Corrosion in Oil and Gas Production.26
Installing the tank

102 When installing an above-ground tank, you should consider:
that the foundations are designed and constructed to support the full tank
loading. Advice on foundations for vertical tanks is given in BS EN 14015;
that the tank is securely anchored or weighted to avoid flotation from flood
water or from spillage of liquid into the bund;
that the supports of raised tanks are fire resistant to a two-hour standard;
that the supports permit any movement of the tank due to temperature
changes. Horizontal tanks may be supported on concrete, masonry or steel
saddles. One end is secured and the other left free to move. Pipework is
connected to the secure end.
103 Similarly, underground tanks require:
foundations and adequate support (concrete or masonry);

to be securely anchored or weighted to avoid flotation from flood water or a
high water table;
backfilling with inert material such as rounded pea gravel or with concrete.
Large stones or rocks may damage the protective coating on the tank. (Note:
concrete is not suitable for double-skin tanks);
protection from loadings from above ground, particularly from traffic. A
reinforced concrete slab may be suitable. Alternatively the area around the
tank should be fenced off, with the perimeter of the tank clearly marked;
an excavation of sufficient size to prevent damage to the tanks protective
coating and to allow safe work during installation and backfilling.
Pipework to and from the tank

104 Pipework may be installed above or underground, but preferably should be
above-ground. The key aims when installing pipework are:
to ensure mechanical integrity;

to keep the diameter and length to the minimum practicable;
to ensure it is adequately protected from damage.
105 The reason to keep the length and diameter of pipework to a minimum is to
reduce the inventory of flammable liquid in the lines. This reduces the potential for
damage and spillage.
106 To ensure mechanical integrity of pipework, all parts of piping systems,
including valve seals and flange gaskets, should be made from material compatible
with the liquids being handled. They should be constructed to a suitable standard
such as that of American Society of Mechanical Engineers B31.3 Process Piping.27
107 Metal pipework should generally be used. Where metal pipework is not
suitable (such as where product purity is an issue), other materials may be used if
an equivalent standard of construction can be achieved. Avoid mixing materials to
avoid electrostatic generation.
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108 The potential for leakage may be reduced by keeping the number of joints to a
minimum and by using welded joints rather than flanged or screwed, particularly for
joints underground.
109 Pressure can build up in pipework due to the thermal expansion of liquids
trapped in the pipes. For example liquid may be trapped between shut-off valves.
This risk should be assessed and appropriate operating procedures should be
introduced to minimise the risk. Alternatively, hydrostatic relief valves may be fitted
which discharge back to the tank or to a safe place such as a sump or vessel
designed for the recovery or disposal of flammable liquids.
Above-ground pipework
110 Above-ground pipework has advantages because leaks are more readily
detected and any vapour produced will normally be dissipated by natural ventilation.
Examinations, modifications and repairs are also easier and corrosion can be more
readily identified and controlled. Piping should be designed to a suitable standard
(such as B31.3 Process Piping).
111 Piping supports should be designed to suit the piping layout. The design
should allow for differential movement between tanks and pipework to allow for
temperature changes in heated tanks or settlement. If supports are located near
tanks a two-hour standard of fire resistance is advisable.
112 Above-ground pipework and its supports may be at risk from damage
particularly from vehicles. It is advisable to design the layout of the plant to minimise
the risk of physical damage. Alternatively, the use of impact protection such as
barriers or bollards may be appropriate.
Underground pipework
113 Underground pipework may have advantages: providing better fire protection;
saving space; and providing greater security. But leakage resulting from damage or
corrosion may be difficult to detect leading to ground contamination and potential
environmental problems.
114 Underground pipework should be laid in a shallow concrete or masonrylined trench provided with load bearing covers if vehicles will be passing over the
trench. The design of the trench should prevent water or moisture from
accumulating around the pipework and allow for inspection of the pipework,
particularly joints. The design should also allow for any extra loading imposed,
such as by vehicles. The route of the trench should be recorded and marked at
ground level.
115 The same trench should not be used for piping carrying corrosive or reactive
materials such as oxygen or chlorine. In addition, the same trench should not
normally be used for electrical cables. Where this is not practicable, the cables
should be selected and installed in accordance with BS EN 60079-14.28
Flexible hoses
116 Flexible hoses should only be used where rigid piping is unsuitable, such as at
filling connections or where vibration is a problem. Hoses should be made to a
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standard suitable for the application and should be compatible with the materials
handled. They should be adequately supported (for example by slings or saddles)
so that the bend radius is not less than the minimum recommended by the
manufacturer.
117 When they are not in use, flexible hoses should be protected from accidental
damage, extremes of temperature and direct sunlight. They should be inspected
daily for signs of leaks, wear and mechanical damage, and examined and pressure
tested annually or according to the manufacturers recommendations. Hoses
should be electrically continuous or bridged with an earthing cable to avoid
electrostatic charging. There are a number of national and harmonised standards
for hose assemblies some of which are listed in the reference section.29
Tank connections and fittings

118 Storage tank filling and emptying connections, and openings for dipping and
venting, should be located at least 4 m from any source of ignition, building
opening, trench or depression. Any drain in the vicinity should be either fitted with
an interceptor or routed to an appropriate waste collection/treatment facility.
119 The connecting point for filling or discharge of above-ground tanks should be
outside the bund wall, close to the tanker stand. This will ensure that the flexible
connecting hose is kept short and will also ease access. It may be necessary to
protect the tank connections to prevent mechanical damage by tanker vehicles.
120 Above-ground tanks can be filled from road tankers either using vehicle
equipment or a fixed pump on site. Use of a fixed pump has advantages as all the
equipment on the vehicle can be switched off during off-loading, and the vehicle
flexible hose and coupling are not subject to pump discharge pressures. Filling
points should be equipped with non-return valves (close to the shut-off valve to
minimise any spillage if the shut-off valve fails to seal) or dry break couplings.
121 Filling lines should be fitted with a suitable flange or coupling to connect with
the hose of the delivery vehicle, rail car etc, and should be capped when not in use.
A locking cap may be advisable. Spillage from making and breaking connections
should be contained by a drip tray or a low sill, or be drained to a safe place. An
interceptor for liquids not miscible with water, or other suitable collection method,
may be required.
122 The end of the tank filling line should extend below the lowest normal
operating level of the liquid to minimise the generation of static electricity from
splash filling. To prevent siphoning, the line should be self draining. Where separate
lines are used for filling and emptying, a liquid seal can be maintained by ending the
discharge line at least 150 mm above the bottom of the filling line. To minimise the
risk of tank leakage, it is preferable for lines to enter the tank at the top. This may
not always be reasonably practicable, particularly for large vertical tanks, which are
normally filled through a low-level nozzle.
123 All dip rods and tubes should be earthed and, where appropriate, an earthing
lead for connection to a road tanker should be fitted. See PD IEC/TS 60079-32-1.30
124 Where several different liquids are loaded/unloaded from a common location,
labelling pipes and fittings is advisable to prevent loading to or from the wrong tank.
Additional precautions, such as unique fittings or dedicated lock off arrangements,
may be required if there is a possibility of mixing incompatible liquids. Methods of
operating isolation and control valves should be indicated by labels or signs where
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necessary.
125 Tank connections to underground tanks may be located in the open air above
the tank or in a chamber below ground (See Figure 8). The chamber may be closed
by a watertight manhole cover or it may be raised slightly above ground level.
Valves
126 Pipes connected to tanks are a potential source of a leakage and should
therefore be provided with suitable shut-off valves which are fire safe when tested
to BS EN ISO 10497.31 The shut-off valves should be located inside the bund wall
and close to the tank. The tank filling line should also be fitted with a shut-off valve
outside the bund wall and close to the filling connection. Any line used only for filling
and which enters the tank at the bottom should also be provided with a non-return
valve.
127 Other valves may be necessary depending on process conditions, such as
automatic double block and bleed systems to prevent back-flow of process
materials into the storage tank or additional isolation valves to allow safe shutdown
in an emergency. Important valves should be labelled to indicate their function and
their method of operation, where necessary.
128 It is essential that isolating valves can be closed quickly in an emergency.
Remotely operated shut-off valves (ROSOVs) may be necessary. They may be
operated remotely by an electrical or pneumatic signal, or by a lever at ground level.
In the event of a power failure, the controls to the ROSOVs should remain
operational or the valve should fail-safe. Advice on selecting ROSOVs can be found
in Remotely operated shutoff valves (ROSOVs) for emergency isolation of hazardous
substances: Guidance on good practice HSG244.32
129 Tank drainage valves should be blanked off when not in use. Draining
operations to remove accumulations of water from beneath the product should be
carried out with caution; establish procedures to avoid relying on only one valve to
retain the tank contents. This may involve the permanent fitting of two valves in line
to the drainage point or temporary replacement of the blanking plate by an
additional valve during the draining operation. When draining horizontal tanks the
blank should be removed and a suitable length of piping attached to ensure that
the liquid is drained away from the tank rather than underneath it.
130 All isolation valves should be tested periodically to ensure they are working
correctly.
Pumps
131 Pumps are potential ignition sources and should be located outside the bund,
on an impervious base, preferably in the open air. This will also avoid damage from
fires or spillages in the bund and facilitate access for maintenance. IP15 Area
classification code for petroleum installations handling flammable fluids12 contains a
methodology to determine the required separation for pumps from the tank and
other features.
132 Any leakage from pump seals may be contained by a low sill or by drainage to
a safe place.
133 Pumps may be located in a pump room, provided the room has adequate
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high- and low-level natural or mechanical ventilation. Interlocks should be fitted to

mechanical systems, so that the pumps cannot be operated unless the ventilation
is working satisfactorily. If the non-operation of a pump could cause a greater
hazard than a lack of ventilation in the pump room, then a clearly audible alarm
should be linked to the ventilation system.
134 Where a pump is controlled remotely, there should be a stop control at the
pump itself, as well as at the control point.
Contents measurement
135 Every tank and tank compartment should have a suitable means of measuring
the quantity of material stored. It should be tested and calibrated at the time of
installation to ensure accuracy, and at regular intervals in line with an inspection and
maintenance schedule or if a tank is modified. A maximum working level and an
absolute maximum level for each tank should be established, one way of doing this
is shown in Figure 9.
Any increase in level beyond the overfill level will result in loss of containment and/or damage to the tank.
(All other levels and alarm set points are determined relative to the overfill level.)
Overfill level (maximum capacity)

The tank rated capacity is a theoretical tank level, far enough below the overfill level to allow time to respond to
the final warning (eg the LAHH) and still prevent loss of containment/damage.
It may also include an allowance for thermal expansion of the contents after filling is complete.
Response
time 3
Tank rated capacity

LAHH
The LAHH is an independant alarm driven by a separate level sensor etc. It will warn of a failure of some element
of a primary (process) control system. It should be set at or below the tank rated capacity to allow adequate time Response
time 2
to terminate the transfer by alternative means before loss of containment/damage occurs.
The LAH is an alarm derived from the ATC (part of the process control system). This alarm is the first stage
overfilling protection, and should be set to warn when the normal fill level has been exceeded.
It should NOT be used to control filling.
Factors influencing the alarm set point are: providing a prompt warning of overfilling and maximising the time
available for corrective action whilst minimising spurious alarms - eg due to transient level fluctuations or
thermal expansion.
LAHH
Response
time 1
Normal fill level (normal capacity)
Defined as the maximum level to which the tank will be intentionally filled under routine process control.
Provision of an operator configurable notification also driven from the ATG may assist with transfers
though it offers minimal if any increase in safety integrity.
ATG
Automatic
tank gauge
LAH
Level alarm
high
LAHH
Level alarm
high high
Trip
(where necessary)
Alarm
Notification
(optional)
Figure 9 Overfilling protection: Tank levels (based on API2350)
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Tank gauging systems

136 Automatic gauging is preferred to manual dipping as it allows determination of
the quantity of liquid without opening the tank. The gauge measures parameters
such as:
height;
mass;
temperature;
density; or
pressure.
The readings are then used to determine the tank content.

137 The use of a high-level alarm is recommended, particularly if the person
controlling the operation is remote from the tank or if toxic liquids or highly flammable
liquids are being handled. The alarm may also be arranged to stop the filling pump,
unless such action could cause an additional hazard, for example, shock loading. A
high, high-level trip may also be fitted, which will trigger shutdown of the pump or
divert the flow, if no action has been taken following the high-level alarm. This high,
high-level trip should be independent of the gauging system to provide overfill
protection if the gauging system fails. The Process Safety Leadership Group Final
report Safety and environmental standards for fuel storage sites4 made detailed
recommendations for in-scope tanks on level gauging and overfill protection.
Dipping
138 Where gauging is done by dip rods, a suitable dip tube should be provided,
with the dipping rod substantially smaller in diameter than the dip tube to minimise
measurement errors. Dipping should not be done through open manholes.
139 Dipsticks are potential sources of ignition in that they may produce frictional
heating or sparking, or static electricity. They should be made of non-sparking
alloys and are earthed. Further guidance may be found in Energy Institute Model
Code of Safe Practice Part 21: Guidelines for the control of hazards arising from
static electricity.33
140 Manual dipping is not as accurate as an automatic gauge but provides an
adequate estimate of the contents. Each tank should have its own calibrated
dipstick, not to be used for other tanks. It may be necessary to protect the bottom
of the tank to avoid damage from repeated dipping.
141 Dipsticks for large tanks are difficult to handle. Dip tapes may be an alternative.
They measure depth and are used with calibration tables for individual tanks.
Vents
142 During normal tank operation, the pressure in the tank may vary. Pressures
may increase during filling or if the ambient temperature rises. Conversely pressures
may drop during emptying or with temperature falls. The tank venting system
should provide:
normal pressure relief;

normal vacuum relief;
emergency pressure relief.
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143 Traditionally vents discharged into the atmosphere but there is increasing
environmental pressure for vapour emission controls. Vapour recovery systems are
now a legal requirement for petrol storage installations and it is likely that the
requirements will be extended to other flammable liquids. Further information on the
design and operation of vapour recovery systems is contained Energy Institute
publication Guidelines for the design and operation of gasoline vapour emission
controls at distribution terminals.34
144 If flammable vapours are discharged into the open air, they may ignite if there
are ignition sources nearby. The minimum recommended separation distance of
vent outlets from sources of ignition, air intakes, buildings, walkways and the site
boundary is 3 m. Vents should be located on top of the tank. The discharge height
above the tank and above the ground should be sufficient to ensure safe dispersion
of the vapours. A discharge height of 0.3 m above the tank or at least 3 m
(preferably 5 m) above ground level, whichever is the higher, is usually adequate.
The height of the vent outlet should be above the liquid level in the tanker. It may
be necessary to increase the recommended separation distances and discharge
height of the vent if there is a possibility of poor vapour dispersion and to meet the
requirements of the Environmental Protection Act.
145 Lightning or other ignition sources may ignite vented vapours from
atmospheric vents. A flame arrester installed at the vent outlet will prevent flames
spreading into the tank. A flame arrester should normally be installed at the vent
outlet of a fixed-roof tank containing a liquid with a flashpoint below 23 C. Flame
arresters need regular maintenance to prevent blocking by paint, scale or other
material. They should be incorporated into a planned preventive inspection scheme.
A flame arrester is not advisable where the liquid stored is liable to polymerise or
foul the arrester.
146 Pressure relief valves or vents prevent excessive pressure build-up and
vacuum valves prevent the tank collapsing due to internal negative pressure. These
functions may be combined in a pressure-vacuum (PV) valve. PV valves are
recommended (see BS EN ISO 28300)35 for use on atmospheric storage tanks in
which a flammable liquid is stored, and for use on tanks containing product that is
heated above its flashpoint. See paragraph 287 for further advice for venting of
higher flashpoint liquids.
147 Pressure control devices should/must be correctly sized in accordance with
an appropriate code or standard, such as BS EN 14015;36 ANSI/API Standard
2000;37 or BS EN ISO 28300:2008.
Emergency relief venting

148 The vents described above are designed to cope with the pressure
fluctuations during normal operation. Additional pressure relief is necessary for
above-ground tanks to cope with possible fire engulfment.
149 Emergency relief venting may be provided by:
larger or additional vents;

manhole or hatch covers which lift under abnormal internal pressure;
a weak wall-to-roof joint;
purpose-built relief devices.
150 Again, emergency relief devices should be correctly sized in accordance with
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an appropriate code or standard. BS EN 14025;38 EEMUA 180 Frangible Roof

Joints for Fixed Roof Storage Tanks: Guide for Designers and Users39 and API 2000
Venting Atmospheric and Low Pressure Storage Tanks37 are commonly used.
Bonding and earthing: Static electricity

151 Static electricity is generated when movement separates charge which can then
accumulate on plant and equipment, and on liquid surfaces. If the plant is not earthed
or the liquid has a low electrical conductivity, then the charge may be generated
faster than it can dissipate. Eventually, there may be an electrical discharge or spark.
If this has sufficient energy it could ignite a flammable gas or vapour.
152 To minimise the accumulation of electrostatic charge and prevent incendive
sparks, all metal parts of the storage installation should be bonded together and
earthed. A maximum resistance to earth of 10 ohms is recommended. It should be
possible to disconnect the earthing facilities for periodic test measurement. Further
advice on earthing and bonding is in BS 7430.40
153 If the liquid has a particularly low electrical conductivity and is being stored
above its flashpoint, it may be advisable to store it under a blanket of nitrogen or
inject it with a static dissipating additive; if used, these degrade with time and the
concentration and effectiveness should be monitored.
Bunding
154 The probability of a major leak from a well-designed and maintained storage
system is low, particularly if overfill protection has been fitted. However, the
consequences of a spillage of flammable liquid are potentially catastrophic.
Therefore measures to contain spillages or leaks from storage tanks are essential.
155 Bunding is the method used to contain a liquid which has spilled or leaked
from a vessel. It is recommended that bunding is provided for all flammable liquids
with a flashpoint of 60 C or below, and for materials which are stored at
temperatures above their flashpoints. Bunding of bulk tanks has been the standard
for many years and is required by environmental law. In addition, provision of a
suitable bund will in part satisfy the requirements of DSEAR regulation 6(4)(e).
156 The purpose of bunding is to:
prevent the flammable liquid or vapour from reaching ignition sources;

prevent the liquid entering the drainage or water systems where it may spread
to uncontrolled ignition sources;
allow the controlled recovery or treatment of the spilled material;
minimise the surface area of the liquid and so reduce the size of any fire that
may occur;
prevent the spread of burning liquids which could present a hazard to other
plant or personnel both on and off site;
contain water used in firefighting or tank cooling;
prevent contamination of land and water courses.
Capacity
157 The bund should have sufficient capacity to contain the largest predictable
spillage. A bund capacity of 110% of the capacity of the largest storage vessel
located within the bund or 25% of the total capacity of tanks in the bund.
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Whichever is the greater will normally be regarded as the minimum. When

estimating the bund capacity, the space occupied by other tanks should be taken
into account.
158 Smaller capacity bunds may be acceptable, where liquid can be directed to a
separate evaporation area or impounding basin, using (where necessary) diversion
walls up to 0.5 m high.
Individual and common bunding
159 Individual bunding is preferred to common bunding, particularly for large tanks.
Where several tanks are contained in one bunded area, intermediate lower bund
walls are recommended to divide tanks into groups to contain small spillages and
to minimise the surface area of any spillage. This may significantly limit the spread
of fire. The total capacity of tanks in a bund should not exceed 60 000 m3
(120 000 m3 for floating-roof tanks).
Walls and floor
160 The bund wall should have sufficient strength to contain any spillage or
firefighting water. For example, a bund wall constructed of 225 mm brick or block
with a height in excess of 600 mm is likely to collapse if required to contain major
spillages. If a height greater than 600 mm is required then additional strengthening
will be needed, such as using greater thickness of brick or block, reinforced
concrete or buttresses. A fixed means of escape from the bund may be necessary.
161 The bund wall should not be constructed too close to the tank. Minimum
recommended separation distances between tank and bund wall are 1 m for tanks
up to 100 m3 and 2 m for tanks above 100 m3.
162 The design of the bund wall is a compromise between minimising the surface
area of the liquid that may be spilled and minimising the height of the bund wall.
Increasing the bunded area and locating lower bund walls away from the tank
provides better ventilation and facilitates access for firefighting. More space is taken
but the hydrostatic loading on the wall will be less. The wall will be cheaper to
design and construct.
163 The bund should be liquid tight. The integrity of the bund wall may be put at
risk if pipework and other equipment are allowed to penetrate it. If it is necessary to
pass pipes through the bund wall (for example, to the pump) then the effect on the
structural strength should be assessed. Additional measures may be needed to
ensure that the bund wall remains liquid tight.
164 The floor and walls of the bund should be of concrete or other fire-resistant
material substantially impervious to the liquid being stored, and with drainage where
necessary to prevent minor spillage collecting near tanks. Stone chippings and
similar materials may be used for the floor providing the underlying ground is
impervious. A suitable buried membrane can also be used as can specially
designed systems using the water table to retain liquids not miscible with water.
Surface water
165 Surface water should not be allowed to collect in the bund. Sloping the bund
floor from the tank will allow water to be siphoned or pumped over the bund wall. If
an electrically driven pump is used, the electrical equipment should either be
outside any hazardous area or be of a type suitable for the zone in which it is used.
Guidance on bund design is contained in Containment systems for the prevention
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of pollution C736 (see paragraph 63) and relevant information has been produced
in the PSLG report.
166 Removal of surface water using pumps and siphons is not always practicable,
particularly for large bunds. An alternative solution is to use a bund drain but if they
are left open the integrity of the bund is destroyed. If a bund drain is used, there
should be a system of work to ensure the valve remains closed and preferably
locked except when water is being removed. Locating the valve outside the bund
wall will ease access during normal operation and in an emergency situation.
Gravity drains should ideally discharge to a sealed drain system.
167 Where flammable liquids not miscible with water are stored, surface water
from bunds should be routed through an interceptor or separator to prevent
flammable liquids entering the main drainage system. For liquids miscible with
water, special drainage systems may be required. The Energy Institute has
published information on water miscible liquids (eg ethanol); further information can
be found in Guidance for the storage and handling of fuel grade ethanol at
petroleum distribution installations41 and Environment Agency Pollution Prevention
Guidelines 7: The safe operation of refuelling facilities.42
Combustible materials
168 No combustible material, such as vegetation, litter or rubbish, should be
allowed to accumulate in the bund, as this will increase the fire risk. Weedkiller
containing oxidising substances should not be used at storage areas or tanker
stands because of the increased fire hazard. Similarly, the bund should not be used
for the storage of flammable liquid containers, gas cylinders (full or empty) or other
hazardous substances.
Vehicles
169 Bunds can be easily damaged, particularly by vehicles. Where possible, traffic
should be routed away from bunds. Damage may be prevented by using impact
protection, such as crash barriers or bollards.
Marking tanks and fittings

170 Where the risks to employees cannot be avoided or adequately reduced by
other means, it may be necessary under regulation 10 of DSEAR to label pipes,
sampling points, joints, valves, etc. Typical examples include:
locations where there are numerous pipes, in close proximity, conveying different
dangerous substances, particularly if they have different hazardous properties;
sampling or filling points and drain valves, particularly where they are located
close to similar points for other pipes conveying dangerous substances;
where there have been significant alterations or additions to fittings and pipe
runs.
Lighting
171 Working areas associated with storage tanks, including loading and unloading
points, should be adequately lit when in use. An average luminance of at least 50
lux is recommended at ground level and on stairs, access platforms etc. It may be
necessary to increase this to 100 lux where perception of detail is required, for
example to read level gauges. More detailed advice is in Lighting at work HSG38.43
Lighting installed in zoned areas should be protected to an appropriate standard.
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Testing tanks and pipework

172 The manufacturer will normally pressure test tanks before supply in
accordance with the design code used and purchase agreement with the client.
This is a standard pressure test to prove the quality of materials and construction to
the relevant design code. For all tank types, hydraulic testing is preferred to
pneumatic testing for safety reasons. For further information see Safety
requirements for pressure testing GS4.44
173 Before filling with flammable liquids for the first time (or after modification or
repair), a leak test may be undertaken of the installed tanks and pipework. Leak
testing is normally carried out to prove the integrity of joints and seals. For tanks of
both metallic and non-metallic construction a leak test pressure should be
calculated by a competent person and agreed for use, but not exceed the design
limits of the tank. Hydraulic testing is again preferred to pneumatic, although air
may be used as a means of applying pressure to water-filled tanks and piping.
Once the tank or system is ready for use, a final functional test may be carried out
at the normal working pressure. The objective of this test is to ensure that the
equipment within the system is functioning as per design.
174 Before testing using water or other test medium you should check that all
parts of the system, including pipelines and supports, are strong enough to
withstand the hydraulic loading, bearing in mind any difference in specific gravity
between test medium and the liquid to be stored in the tank. All leaks or other
faults should be corrected before the tank is first used.
175 Take care to ensure the compatibility of the test medium with the material of
construction. For example, use of towns (or potable) water in stainless steel tanks
may lead to chloride-induced stress corrosion cracking. After testing, the test
medium should be drained and the tank dried where necessary, to prevent
contamination of the stored liquid.
Heated tanks
176 Viscous liquids are often heated to ease pumping. Additional precautions
should be taken to ensure that the storage tank is suitable for use as a heated
tank. These precautions are outlined in the following paragraphs.
177 Heated tanks and their associated heating equipment should be constructed
to an appropriate standard such as those listed in the references section.45 Useful
information on heated tanks and advice on the storage of bitumen can be found in
the Energy Institute Bitumen Safety Code.46
178 Locating the outlet pipe above the heating coil or element will prevent
exposure of any internal heated surface or any temperature control sensor. A
second drainpipe may be fitted at a lower level so that the tank can be completely
emptied when necessary. This pipe should be fitted with a closed valve and a
blank flange so that it cannot be used during normal operations. If this
arrangement is not feasible then an alternative is to fit a low liquid level alarm
linked to a heater cutout.
Temperature control
179 The temperature of the tank should be controlled using a thermostat or similar
device. It recommended that you select the minimum temperature sufficient for the
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purpose, preferably below the flashpoint of the liquid. Control will be easier if the
heating rate is slow.
180 As well as the thermostat control, it is advisable to have an independent cutout device which will shut down the heater completely (no automatic reset) if the
temperature exceeds a set high point. This is particularly important if the flammable
liquids could be heated above their flashpoint in normal operation or under fault
conditions.
181 The temperature sensor (independent of the thermostat) should be located
where it is continuously immersed in the liquid. A second temperature sensor may
be advantageous to indicate possible problems with the thermostat.
182 Temperature probes, thermostats and associated equipment should be
maintained and recalibrated. They should be included in the preventive
maintenance schedule.
183 Heaters should be used only when there is at least 150 mm of liquid covering
the heating coil. The tank should not be emptied until the tubes have cooled to the
temperature of the liquid. It may be advisable to install a low level alarm to ensure
the heaters are not uncovered inadvertently.
184 Where vents, filters etc are liable to become blocked, or a build-up of coke or
other material is liable to occur, a regular system of inspection and cleaning should
be in place. This is particularly important for vents, as blockage by, for example,
polymerisation, sublimation or condensation of product, may damage the tank. In
some cases trace heating may be used to minimise the problem. Where electric
surface heating is used, it should be selected and installed in accordance with the
appropriate standard, such as BS EN 60079-30-1.47
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Loading and unloading facilities

185 This section provides guidance on road and rail transfer facilities. It does not
cover loading and unloading from ships. If required, advice is available in The bulk
transfer of dangerous liquids and gases between ship and shore HSG186 and from
the International Oil Tanker and Terminal Safety Guide.
186 All equipment including pumps, valves and hoses should be suitable for the
liquids being handled and for the conditions of use. They should be made to an
appropriate British Standard or equivalent.
187 Some tankers have their own offloading pump. If these are used, they should
be checked to ensure that they are electrically protected and are of a capacity
matched to the discharge pipework and the tank installation.
188 Where vehicles are bottom loaded, the recommendations in the Energy
Institute code of practice for road tank vehicles equipped for bottom loading and
vapour recovery contained in Petroleum road tanker design and construction48
should be followed.
189 Further advice on terminal loading operations can be found in the CDOIF
(Chemical and Downstream Oil Industries Forum) documents Automatic Overfill
Prevention Systems for Terminal Loading Racks49 and Terminal Loading Operations
Hazard Awareness.50
Loading and unloading road tankers

190 Loading/unloading bays for road tankers should be located in a safe,
well-ventilated position. The minimum recommended distance of a filling point
from occupied buildings, the site boundary and fixed sources of ignition is 10 m.
191 The loading/unloading bay should have easy access and exit for tankers,
preferably without reversing. The loading/unloading area and the access road
should preferably be dedicated to tanker use only. If this is not practicable, barriers
to control access by other vehicles and pedestrians may be necessary during
transfer operations.
192 A separate parking bay for road tankers waiting to load or unload is advisable
so that vehicles and documents can be checked with minimum interference to
traffic flow. Tankers should not wait on public roads or busy internal roads.
193 Level ground is desirable, surfaced with a material resistant to the liquids
being handled. A small gradient may be beneficial if this assists drainage. The
drainage should be designed to minimise the surface area of any spillage and lead
it away from vehicles to a slop tank or interceptor.
Design of a road tanker loading/unloading facility

194 To minimise the risk of overfilling, tankers should normally be loaded using a
flow meter with a trip to stop the pump and close a shut-off valve automatically
when a preset quantity has been delivered. Use of an independent high-level or
overflow alarm is recommended to provide a warning if the meter fails. Meters may
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be protected by installing flow control valves. CDOIF has published detailed

guidance aimed at fuel distribution terminals.
195 Before liquids are unloaded from tankers into storage tanks, particular
attention should be paid to ensuring enough ullage space is available in the storage
tank to receive the load. The use of high-level alarms on storage tanks is described
in paragraph 137. To reduce the likelihood of spillage, the use of self-sealing
couplings on the hose connections should be considered.
196 Precautions should be in place to prevent spillage due to vehicles being
moved with the hoses still connected or arms still in place. This can be done by
providing barriers across the tanker stance, wheel chocks, brake interlocks on the
vehicle or breakaway couplings on the hose connections.
197 In addition to any automatic shut-off devices on the tanker or the tank, an
emergency stop button should be installed at the loading/unloading point which will
activate a quick-action shut-off valve or pump stop control. This will enable the
operator/driver to stop immediately loading/unloading if a problem is observed.
198 Precautions against static electricity should be provided. These include an
earthing connection for the vehicle, electrically conducting hoses and elimination of
splash filling. For additional protection an interlock may be fitted to prevent
operation of the control valve or loading pump until the earth connection is made
(see also BS 5958).51 Splash filling may be avoided by ensuring that the fill pipe in a
top-loading operation reaches to the bottom of the tank or tanker.
199 Safe access to equipment and safe means of escape for work above ground
level should be in place. Access gantries with stairs or ladders and protective
handrails will usually be required for top-loading of vehicles. Gantries should be
made of fire-resisting materials and, where necessary, should include means of
access to the top of the tanker vehicles.
200 Fire protection measures should be designed to minimise the risk of fire
spread. This may be achieved by ensuring that a ready supply of water and/or
foam is available from fixed or mobile equipment. Hand extinguishers should also
be located at appropriate points within the transfer area. The loading/unloading
facilities should also be fitted with easily accessible fire alarm activation points.
201 The information on tank connections and fittings, and contents measurement
is also relevant. See paragraphs 118153.
Rail loading/offloading
202 Most of the advice given above for road transfer can be applied to rail. In
addition, the following advice is recommended for rail transfers:
a separation distance of at least 15 m from any railway line in regular use;

straight and level tracks with a maximum gradient of no more than 1 in 400,
any dead end to slope down towards the buffers;
isolation from other rail traffic by closing and locking barriers or points. If the
siding is part of an electrified track system, it should be electrically isolated
from the rest of the system and bonded to the site main earth;
precautions to prevent the train from moving during loading or unloading;
precautions to prevent the locomotive acting as a source of ignition. These
may include keeping a separation distance of at least 9 m between the filling
hose and the locomotive;
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remote pump controls at intervals along the siding;

quick action manually-operated stop valves and non-return valves on the
individual lines from a common header pipe used to fill/unload two or more rail
cars simultaneously. This will prevent back-feeding;
maintenance of track and line-side equipment to an appropriate standard.
Operation of road and rail facilities

203 All operations should be under the control of an authorised person, who
should be present at all times during the transfer. In some circumstances, the
authorised person may be the driver. This is common practice for the delivery of
petrol in accordance with Schedule 12 of the Carriage of Dangerous Goods and
Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009 (see Appendix). Before
any transfer is made between a road or rail tanker and a storage installation, an
authorised site representative should be notified.
204 To minimise the generation of static electricity, splash filling should be avoided,
for example, by ensuring that the open end of the fill pipe is not above the normal
minimum surface level of the tank contents. Further advice can be found in the
Energy Institutes Model Code of Safe Practice Part 21.
205 The hazards from static charging can also be minimised during road and rail
loading by avoiding switch loading, where a tanker that has contained low
flashpoint liquid, such as petrol, is subsequently loaded with a higher-flashpoint
liquid, such as kerosene.
206 Written instructions should be provided covering all aspects of the operation.
These may include:
tanker earthing;
the careful checking of load details and tank ullages;
inspection of hoses and other items of equipment;
the measures to prevent the vehicle moving while hoses are connected;
the transfer procedure; and
emergency procedures.
207 Before unloading the tanker, placards and the accompanying delivery notes
should be checked to ensure, so far as reasonably practicable, that the material
being delivered is what it is supposed to be and is compatible with the destination
storage tank. This is particularly important if incompatible materials are stored on
site. Even substituting a flammable liquid with a highly flammable liquid can
ultimately have serious consequences, such as loading petrol into a diesel tank.
Similarly, before a loaded tanker leaves site, placards and paperwork should be
checked to ensure they match the load.
208 An effective means of communication should be provided between personnel
involved in the loading/unloading operations, and other parts of the site such as the
control room. If radios are used they should be suitable for use in hazardous areas.
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Fire protection
209 It may be necessary to provide fire protection where the storage conditions
are less than ideal, such as where it is difficult to achieve adequate separation
distances. Fire protection measures can be provided by:
fire resistant claddings or coatings;

fire walls;
water cooling systems;
foam blankets or extinguishing systems.
210 Combinations of the different measures may be used. Fire protection systems
should be included in the inspection and maintenance schedule for the facility. Routine
testing of water spray and deluge systems may be necessary. Further advice on fire
protection is given in the Energy Institutes Model Code of Safe Practice Part 19.
Passive fire protection

211 Fire resistant claddings or coatings may be used to protect the tank from
adjacent fires or from a liquid pool fire around its base. The fire resistance of
structures which support vessels should be assessed collapse in a fire could
escalate the incident. Fire protection of structural steel should provide a minimum
protection of two hours. See Model Code of Safe Practice Part 19 and L138.
212 Thermal insulation materials are often used to reduce heat loss or heat gain.
These materials may not provide passive fire protection unless specifically designed
for the purpose.
Fire walls
213 A fire wall may be used to give additional protection to small tanks. They are not
usually practicable or economic for larger tanks. Where a fire wall is installed, it should
be at least the height of the tank, with a minimum height of 2 m, and should normally
be sited between 1 and 3 m from the tank. It may form part of the bund wall or a
building wall. A fire wall should normally be provided on only one side of a tank, to
ensure adequate ventilation. The wall should be long enough to ensure that the
distance between the tank and a building, boundary, process plant or source of ignition
is at least the appropriate distance in Table 1 measured around the ends of the wall.
214 To be effective, reinforced concrete or masonry construction is recommended
and in all cases the fire wall should:
have no holes in it;

have at least half-hour fire resistance;
be weather-resistant;
be sufficiently robust to withstand foreseeable accidental damage.
Water cooling systems

215 Water sprays or deluge systems are used primarily to provide cooling and so
protect the tank from the damaging effects of an adjacent fire or a liquid pool fire at
its base.
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216 The water application rates will depend on the level of thermal radiation to
which the tank and associated equipment may be exposed. The recommended
rate quoted in Model Code of Safe Practice Part 19 to protect a fixed-roof tank
from a pool fire at its base is not less than 10 l/min/m2 of exposed uninsulated
surface.
217 Protection of a tank from an adjacent fire depends on various factors such as
the distance from the fire. A water rate of 2 l/min/m2 is considered to be the
minimum application rate for tank surfaces exposed to radiation from a nonimpinging fire in adjacent equipment. Water coverage should be uniform and there
should be no significant dry areas on the tank walls.
218 The application of water to the roof of floating-roof tanks is not recommended.
For rim fires, water may be applied to the vertical tank walls while a foam blanket is
applied to the roof.
Foam systems
219 Foam systems may be used to extinguish a fire or blanket spillages of
flammable liquid and so reduce the risk of ignition. To avoid the build-up of static
charges and possible ignition, foam should be applied using a foam pourer and not
by jet. Recent research work carried out by the oil industry has shown that applying
large volumes of foam rapidly can extinguish even a fully developed tank fire. This
requires specialist equipment and high capacity pumps, foam generators and
pourers or monitors.
220 Further advice on the design and specification of fire protection systems can
be found in Model Code of Safe Practice Part 19.
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Inspection and maintenance

221 All plant should be inspected for damage and deterioration. In addition to
planned formal examinations, this inspection should be a combination of routine
visual inspection by operations staff looking for obvious deterioration or damage.
222 There should be regular inspection and cleaning of interceptors, bunds, vents,
slop tanks, loading and unloading facilities, and any buildings where flammable
vapour may be present. Where a defect is identified, there should be a system in
place to record this and to initiate appropriate remedial action.
223 The Health and Safety at Work etc Act requires that plant and equipment is
maintained in a safe condition. Storage tanks and all associated equipment,
including walls and fences, should be properly maintained. Only personnel who are
suitably qualified and authorised, and who fully understand the hazards, should
carry out inspection and maintenance.
224 It is recommended that you list the component parts of the installation on a
preventive maintenance schedule, containing details of the scope and frequency of
planned inspection and maintenance work. You should also pay attention to periodic
inspection of electrical equipment and operation of isolation valves. There should be
regular inspection and cleaning of interceptors, bunds, vents, slop tanks, loading and
unloading facilities, and any buildings where flammable vapour may be present.
Firefighting equipment should be regularly maintained and, where appropriate, tested.
225 Examination of tanks, pipework and fittings should be carried out by a
competent person. This could be a specialist inspection engineer employed by an
insurance company or other third-party inspection body. Alternatively, an employee
with the appropriate qualifications, experience and competence and supporting
management systems could provide some form of an inspection service. A scheme
of examination should be agreed between the user and the competent person, to
include the scope and frequency of thorough examination. The intervals between
internal examinations should be determined using a risk assessment approach
based on tank service, maintenance history, and known and potential damage
mechanisms and their rates of attack. Intermediate external examinations should
also be carried out on above-ground tanks.
221 Records should be kept of all examinations, tests, modifications and major
maintenance. Schemes of examination should be in writing and should be reviewed
regularly by the competent person and the equipment owner. Hoses and hose
assemblies, where used, should be subject to an inspection regime, which includes
a pressure test at least annually, and visual inspection on every day they are used.
More detailed guidance on the inspection and maintenance of tanks can be
gathered from EEMUA 159, and EEMUA 231 The mechanical integrity of plant
containing hazardous substances: A guide to periodic examination and testing.52
Floating-roof tanks
227 For tanks with a floating or internal floating cover:
avoid fouling or obstructing tank connections;

ensure adequate buoyancy of the roof or cover;
provide adequate roof space ventilation; and
provide adequate electrical bonding.
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228 Regular inspection for cracks and damage to the rim seal is advisable. The
drainage system may need regular attention to prevent accumulation of
rainwater.
229 A safe system of work should be in place for access to the roof (particularly
when it is more than 2 m below the tank top) due to the possible accumulation of
vapour. The system of work should include emergency procedures and means of
escape, in the event of fire.
Permit-to-work systems
230 Many accidents have occurred while storage installations were being
maintained, modified or demolished. The main cause is the introduction of a source
of ignition, such as a cutting torch or an unprotected light, to pieces of equipment
where flammable vapours remain. Any work carried out on equipment which may
contain a flammable liquid or vapour should be covered by a permit-to-work (PTW)
or similar system of authorisation.
231 In most cases, a PTW system should be used to control maintenance
operations in areas where flammable liquids are stored or used. PTWs are formal
management documents. They should only be issued by those with clearly
assigned authority to do so, and the requirements stated in them must be
complied with before the permit is issued and the work covered by it is
undertaken. Individual PTWs should relate to clearly defined individual pieces of
work.
232 PTWs should normally include:
the area in which the permit applies;

the work to be done and the method to be used;
identification of the hazards, including the residual hazards and those
introduced by the work itself;
the precautions to ensure that all flammable materials have been removed and
cannot be accidentally reintroduced;
the personal protective equipment required;
the proposed time and duration of the work;
the limits of time for which the permit is valid; and
the person in direct control of the work.
233 A range of guidance on PTW systems may be found on HSEs website

www.hse.gov.uk/safemaintenance/permits.htm and in Guidance on permit-to-work
systems: A guide for the petroleum, chemical and allied industries HSG250.53
234 Contractors and subcontractors should also be covered by the permit or
authorisation system.
Modifying the storage installation

235 Modifications may affect the mechanical or electrical integrity of the storage
installation. A risk assessment should be carried out at the planning stage to
identify any additional hazards that the modification may introduce. The use of a
competent person to oversee the work will ensure the installation remains fit for
purpose. Additional testing may be required.
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Decommissioning tanks
236 Tanks that are to be taken out of use should be made safe. The method will
vary with the location of the tank, the product it has contained and whether it is to
be taken out of use permanently or temporarily. A risk assessment should be
carried out at the planning stage to identify any additional hazards that
decommissioning may introduce. The work should also be covered by a PTW or
similar authorisation procedure.
237 The preliminary steps in the decommissioning process (which also apply to
pipework) are:
isolation of the tank from any process, plant or storage vessel by either
removing pipe sections or fitting spade pieces. Shut-off valves by themselves
are not adequate;
emptying the tank as much as possible;
opening manholes to assist venting.
238 Tanks which are being decommissioned permanently should be made safe by
thorough cleaning and gas freeing. Guidance is available in The cleaning and gas
freeing of tanks containing flammable residues CS15.54
239 Tanks that are being decommissioned temporarily should be made safe by
thorough cleaning as above, or by filling with water or an inert gas such as nitrogen.
The advice given in CS15 is applicable in this situation. If inert gas is used, the tank
should be labelled to make it clear that it contains a gas which could cause
suffocation if the tank is entered. See also Safe work in confined spaces. Confined
Spaces Regulations 1997. Approved Code of Practice, Regulations and guidance
L101.55 Regular inspection will help you ensure that the tank remains in a safe
condition.
240 Advice on the decommissioning of underground tanks is given in APEA code
of practice Guidance for Design, Construction, Modification, Maintenance and
Decommissioning of Filling Stations.
Demolishing tanks
241 Demolition of tanks which have contained flammable liquids is potentially very
hazardous. Hot work can cause an explosion if undertaken before the tank and
pipework has been drained and cleaned. Tanks that have contained flammable
liquids need special preparation to remove flammable vapours, or associated liquids
and sludges. Residues that can evolve flammable vapours when heated may be
present on the walls and underside of the roof. It may be advisable to use a
specialist tank demolition company with the relevant expertise and equipment.
242 Guidance is available in CS15, the Energy Institute Model Code of Safe
Practice Part 16: Tank cleaning safety code56 and BS 6187.57
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Fire precautions
243 The likelihood of a major fire may be minimised by:
good plant design and layout;

sound engineering;
good operating practice;
tight control of non-routine operations such as repairs and modifications;
instruction and training of personnel in routine operations and in emergency
procedures.
244 Plant design and layout should include consideration of:
water supplies;
fire protection equipment;
firefighting;
means of escape;
means of access for fire and rescue service appliances;
arrangements to ensure an early call out of the fire and rescue service in the
event of fire;
ability of the drainage/interceptor facilities to cope with fire water.
245 For means of escape, at least two separate exits will normally be needed.
Exits should open outwards and be easily opened from inside when the area is
occupied. One exit may be sufficient if the distance from any part of the storage
area to the exit is not more than 24 m, measured around the tanks and any other
obstructions.
246 The fire and rescue authority should be consulted on these matters (at the
planning stage in the case of new or altered facilities). Further guidance is available
in Model Code of Safe Practice Part 19.
General fire precautions

247 General fire precautions (the equivalent term general fire safety measures is
used in Scotland) are primarily concerned with ensuring people can safely escape
to a place of safety in the event of a fire in the workplace. This includes provision of:
adequate and appropriate means of detection and giving warning in case of

fire;
adequate means of escape;
suitable means of fighting fire;
specifying the action to be taken in the event of fire; and
appropriate and adequate training of staff in the companys fire safety
procedures.
248 You are responsible for carrying out a risk assessment to determine the
general fire safety requirements for your workplace. As part of this, you should also
consider the potential impact of fire involving flammable liquids and adapt the
general fire precautions as necessary so they remain sufficient to ensure peoples
safety in the event of fire.
249 General fire precautions are subject to separate legislation (see paragraphs
1921). This includes the requirement for the employer to ensure they are sufficient
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for peoples safety in the event of a fire involving dangerous substances at the
workplace. The provisions of regulations 16, 8, 9 and 11 of DSEAR, as they relate
to general fire safety, are embodied in this general fire safety legislation.
250 Detailed consideration of general fire precautions is outside the scope of this
guidance. Guidance on how to comply with the law relating to general fire safety
requirements and how to carry out a fire risk assessment can be found:
for England and Wales, in Fire safety in the workplace

www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety-your-responsibilities;
for Scotland, in FireLaw General guidance
www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Justice/public-safety/Fire-Rescue/FireLaw;
for England and Wales, Fire safety risk assessment: factories and
warehouses https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fire-safety-riskassessment-factories-and-warehouses;
for Scotland, Factories & Storage Premises
www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Justice/public-safety/Fire-Rescue/FireLaw/
FireLaw/SectorSpecificGuidance/FactoriesStorage;
for construction sites, Fire safety in construction HSG168.58
251 Further detailed advice on general fire precautions may be found in

BS 9999.59
Outside work areas
252 General fire safety legislation applies to the entire workplace. This includes
indoor and outdoor work areas.
Detection and giving warning in case of fire
253 There should be an effective means of giving warning in case of fire in the
process area. It should be audible to all those likely to be affected by the fire. This
may vary from small process areas, where a shout of fire might suffice, to larger
areas where a klaxon or siren might be required. An assembly point in a safe
location should be identified for people evacuating from such areas, where they can
be accounted for.
Adequate means of escape
254 The layout of process plant and equipment should be planned and controlled to
avoid dead-end situations where possible; ie where escape is only possible in one
direction. Any that cannot be avoided should be as short as possible. Escape routes
should be obvious, with directional escape signs as required. These signs should
comply with the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations (see
Appendix). Operational needs should ensure that the gangway widths are adequate,
but wherever possible, they need to have a minimum width of 1.5 metres.
Firefighting equipment and facilities
255 Under general fire legislation (see paragraphs 1921), it is the responsibility of
the local fire and rescue authority to make provision for firefighting, and to equip
and maintain a fire and rescue service to meet normal requirements. The fire
authority may make arrangements with works fire teams to provide assistance but
the local authority fire and rescue service will assume control of firefighting
operations on arrival at a fire. It may be possible to negotiate additional assistance
with nearby sites, perhaps by a mutual aid agreement.
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256 The firefighting equipment for bulk storage of flammable liquids will depend on
the quantity and type of liquid, and on the conditions of storage. Firefighting
equipment should be provided at readily accessible locations at the storage area,
including identifiable danger points such as pump rafts, hose pits and loading
gantries. Protection against the weather, particularly freezing, may be required.
Firefighting equipment should be regularly maintained, and where appropriate,
tested.
257 Dry powder or foam fire extinguishers (hand-held or trolley-mounted) are
suitable to deal with fires from small leaks of flammable liquid. CO2 extinguishers
should be used for electrical fires. To guard against equipment failure, it is
preferable to have extinguishers grouped in pairs. Fire extinguishers should be
regularly inspected and tested by a competent agency. Extinguishers should be to
a recognised standard such as BS EN 3-7.60
258 For other fires that might affect the storage, eg those involving rubbish or
vegetation, water hoses are appropriate. Hoses may be in reels permanently
connected to a water supply, or in lengths for connection to a hydrant, and should
cover all parts of the storage installation. BS 5306 Parts 1 and 361 contains advice
on selecting, installing and maintaining portable firefighting equipment.
259 Facilities to deal with larger fires include an adequate water supply for fire and
rescue service use. This may consist of hydrants, ponds, canals etc and should be
readily accessible and normally no more than 100 m from the tanks. The need for
foam and the means of application may be discussed with the fire authority, taking
into account the number, size, type, location and contents of tanks. Fixed foam
pourers or high-capacity monitors designed to cover the entire liquid surface rapidly
with foam together with the associated high capacity water pumps and other
equipment has been shown to be able to rapidly extinguish full surface fires and
their provision should be considered. Rapid extinguishment of such fires can
substantially reduce the potential for escalation and minimise property damage. The
total quantity of fire water used is also significantly reduced thus reducing the risk of
environmental pollution and reducing clean-up costs. Provision of such systems
could be considered for larger sites.
260 An adequate supply of water will also be needed to provide cooling for tanks
exposed to heat from a nearby fire. Advice on the required cooling rates for tanks
can be found in Annex D of Model Code of Safe Practice Part 19. The required rate
will vary with the fire to which the tank may be exposed, but a rate of 10 l/m2/min
may be required if the tank could be enveloped in flame. The entire tank wall should
be covered with water to prevent hotspots developing. Fixed water sprays or
portable monitors are an advantage, but are normally required only where the
storage conditions are less than ideal, such as where it is difficult to achieve
adequate separation distances.
261 Fire water run-off may place a major strain on normal drainage facilities.
Interceptors or special draining systems may be necessary, particularly at large
installations, to minimise the risk of contamination of local watercourses. For sites
subject to COMAH (see Appendix), and those within scope of PSLG there are more
detailed recommendations on the HSE website
(www.hse.gov.uk/comah/index.htm).
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Emergency procedures
262 The impact of an incident involving flammable liquids may be drastically
reduced if prompt emergency action is taken. Everyone should know what to do in
the event of spills, leaks or fires involving flammable liquids. Practical training and
written procedures should be provided covering:
raising the alarm;

calling the fire and rescue service;
controlling the spill or leak;
tackling the fire (when it is safe to do so); and
evacuating the area safely.
263 Where an incident may affect people or property beyond the site boundary,
the emergency services should be consulted. At top-tier COMAH installations,
operators must prepare on-site and off-site emergency plans (regulation 9(1)).
Guidance on emergency plans can be found in HSG191.
Security
264 The consequences of trespassing or tampering may be very serious. Good
security is essential. If the storage facility is within the security area of the premises
as a whole then this may give adequate protection. Otherwise, it is advisable to
enclose storage areas and areas used for loading or unloading tankers by using a
substantial fence at least 1.8 m high. Use of welded mesh or chain-link fencing
(which will not obstruct ventilation) is preferred.
265 Exits should open outwards and be easily opened from inside when the area
is occupied. They should be kept locked when the area is unoccupied, with access
to the keys restricted to authorised personnel. A written procedure covering key
control may be advisable.
Information and training

266 Adequate training and knowledge of the properties of flammable liquids
present on site are essential for their safe handling and implementation of the
emergency procedures in the event of an incident.
267 Training is a requirement of the Management Regulations and DSEAR (see
Appendix and paragraph 1718). Carrying out risk assessments required by these
Regulations will identify how much information, training and retraining are needed.
Further guidance is available in L138.
268 You need to inform all staff on the site about the hazards of flammable liquids,
and about the need to exclude sources of ignition and heat from the designated
areas. Those responsible for the operation of the process areas also need to
receive specific training in how to deal with spillages and leaks, and emergency
procedures.
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269 Periodic retraining will usually be necessary. A typical training schedule will
include the following:
hazards and properties of the liquids being stored;

safe operating procedures for the installation and its associated equipment;
the purpose of the safety features, including the importance of not removing
or tampering with them;
the action to be taken if a fault in the equipment is detected;
dealing with minor leaks and spills;
the importance of good housekeeping and preventive maintenance;
emergency procedures.
270 Information on safety in the use of solvents can be found on the Solvents
Industry Association website: www.sia-uk.org.uk.
271 You will need written procedures for controlling the risks from flammable
liquids, and these should be used as the basis for training.
Signage
272 The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations (see Appendix)
and DSEAR regulations 7(3) and 10 (see paragraph 1718) require employers to
post appropriate safety signs where identified significant risk remains following
implementation of the other safety measures. The intention of posting safety signs
(including fire safety signs) is to provide warning and instruction to employees of
risks to their health and safety. The signs are intended to remind employees of the
actions they should take. Employees should therefore receive adequate information
and training on these actions and fully understand the meaning of the safety signs
and what they require.
273 Your risk assessment will help you determine the nature and extent of safety
signs required. Guidance on this is given in Safety signs and signals. The Health and
Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. Guidance on Regulations L64.62
274 Safety signs that conform to a recognised standard such BS EN ISO 701063
are acceptable. The signs may be also supplemented with text where you have
concluded this to be appropriate.
275 Typically, unless otherwise made obvious, safety signs are commonly posted
at the entrances to the locations where flammable liquids are processed or stored,
to warn and remind employees of the precautionary measures to be observed.
Flammable
liquid
No smoking
no naked lights
Figure 9 Example of warning and prohibition signs with supplementary text used at entry
points to flammable liquid facilities
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276 Similarly, unless it is otherwise made obvious (for example, by control of

potential ignition sources throughout the site), at the entry points of places that
have been classified as hazardous areas (eg gates/doors to process areas) an
appropriate sign should be posted to warn people entering those areas that special
precautions are required.
EX
Danger
Explosive
atmosphere
Figure 5 Example of warning sign with supplementary text used at entry points to locations
where a potentially explosive atmosphere may exist
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Higher flashpoint liquids

277 Where the flashpoint of the liquid is significantly above the highest operational
temperature, some of the precautions described may be relaxed. Under these
circumstances such liquids will not normally produce a flammable atmosphere. The
risk assessment required under regulation 5 of DSEAR (see paragraph 1718)
should be used to determine which, if any, of the precautions can be relaxed. In
general, a difference of at least 10 C between the highest temperature and the
flashpoint is recommended before such relaxations are permitted.
278 The following paragraphs indicate where the advice in the preceding guidance
may be relaxed for higher flashpoint liquids stored at temperatures below their
flashpoint. If no variation is shown for any particular aspect, the standards in the
main text apply.
Sources of ignition
279 Where the temperature of a liquid is not likely to be raised near to its
flashpoint, and there is little likelihood of a flammable mist or spray occurring, the
liquid may be considered not to give rise to a hazardous area. Protection of nearby
electrical equipment is not then required. However, there should be no likelihood of
local heating of the liquid, which might produce a flammable vapour.
280 For tanks containing higher flashpoint liquids at temperatures near to or above
their flashpoint, electrical equipment within 1 m of tank vents and other openings
should be protected to zone 2 standards. Equipment located in the vapour space
inside such tanks should be to zone 0 standards (see L138, regulation 7 and
Schedules 24).
281 Irrespective of storage temperature, installations where liquid can escape as a
mist or spray may require explosion-protection of adjacent electrical equipment. An
example is a pump used to fill or empty a tank.
282 In all cases, precautions against the introduction of other sources of ignition
such as smoking and hot work will be needed.
283 Protection against vehicles acting as a source of ignition is not required for
vehicles used or parked in storage areas containing only higher flashpoint liquids.
Location of tanks above ground

284 In Table 3 the separation distance from buildings etc, for tanks above 250 m3
capacity may be reduced to 10 m.
285 The recommended minimum separation distances for a tank containing higher
flashpoint liquid are:
from another tank containing a higher flashpoint liquid: the minimum needed
for safe construction and operation;
from a tank containing a low flashpoint liquid: in accordance with Table 2.
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Storage in buildings
286 It is advisable to store all classes of flammable liquids outside wherever
reasonably practicable. Where higher flashpoint liquids are stored in buildings the
precautions in paragraphs 8487 are relevant, with the following changes:
a lightweight roof is recommended but other protection against explosion is

not required;
a lower standard of ventilation, eg a limited number of air bricks in external
walls, is adequate;
the building need not be single-storey (but the tanks should be located on the
ground floor); and
a fixed water installation is not necessary.
Venting
287 The minimum recommended heights for vent outlets do not apply to higher
flashpoint liquids. The separation distance from buildings etc may be reduced to 1 m.
Flame arresters and PV (pressure/vacuum) valves are not required but fire
engulfment relief should be provided.
Marking and labelling

288 Tanks should be marked Flammable Liquid.
Road and rail tankers

289 The recommended separation distance between road transfer facilities and
buildings etc may be reduced to 5 m. The restriction on approach of locomotives
need not be applied.
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Appendix Other relevant health

and safety legislation
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
(the Management Regulations)
1 The Management Regulations require employers and the self-employed to
assess the general risks to health and safety arising from their work activity and
identify the preventive and protective measures that need to be taken to control the
identified risks.
2 The more specific provisions of DSEAR (see paragraph 1718) will only apply
where dangerous substances are present or used. For example, an assessment of
the risks from dangerous substances and arrangements for emergencies carried out
under DSEAR will not need to be repeated under the Management Regulations, and
may be incorporated into the more general management assessment as a subset.
3 There are legal requirements, in other regulations, to consult employees. It can
be helpful to involve employees or their representatives when carrying out risk
assessments.
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002

(COSHH)
4 Flammable liquids are dangerous (to safety) in terms of DSEAR, but they are
also likely to present a health risk for which COSHH will apply. The suppliers SDS
should provide information on this, where the employer will have duties to control
the health and safety risks under both COSHH and DSEAR. By considering the
requirements together, development and implementation of a single set of safety
measures to satisfy the requirements of both sets of regulations should be possible.
CLP and CHIP

5 From 1 June 2015, chemical suppliers must comply only with the CLP
Regulation.
6 European Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 on Classification, Labelling and
Packaging of Substances and Mixtures (known as the CLP Regulation or CLP) has
repealed both the Dangerous Substances Directive (67/548/EEC) and the
Dangerous Preparations Directive (99/45/EC) and became the primary legislation in
this area.
7 The CLP Regulation adopts across the European Union the United Nations
Globally Harmonised System on chemical classification and labelling (GHS). The
CLP Regulation is directly acting on all European Union member states. This means
that, unlike with directives, no national transposition is necessary and the need for
the Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply) Regulations 2009
(CHIP Regulations) falls away. However, regulation 12 of CHIP requires that the
person who is responsible for first supplying a dangerous preparation has to keep a
record of the information for at least three years after it is last supplied; this
provision of CHIP will remain until June 2018, after which CHIP is fully revoked.
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8 Preparations classified, labelled and packaged in accordance with CHIP and

placed on the market before 1 June 2015, do not need to be relabelled and
repackaged in accordance with the CLP Regulation until 1 June 2017. Product
hazard labels must only show the details of one regime mixed labels are not
permitted.
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998

(PUWER)
9 These Regulations ensure that safe work equipment is provided, maintained in
good working order and is safely used. Regulation 12 of PUWER is particularly
relevant to equipment associated with flammable liquids, as it requires employers
to ensure that people using work equipment are not exposed to hazards arising
from:
equipment catching fire or overheating;

the unintended or premature discharge of any liquid or vapour;
the unintended or premature explosion of the work equipment or any substance
used or stored in it.
Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for Use in

Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 1996 (EPS)
10 EPS applies to the supply of both electrical and mechanical equipment and
protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. New
equipment etc supplied for use in places where an explosive atmosphere may
occur must meet the requirements of EPS whatever its source.
Planning (Hazardous Substance) Regulations 1992

11 Sites, manufacturing or processing flammable liquids may be required to apply
for permission under the Planning (Hazardous Substance) Regulations 1992 in
England and Wales or the Town and Country Planning (Hazardous Substances)
(Scotland) Regulations 1993. Application is usually to the local planning authority
with HSE being a statutory consultee in the application process.
Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites)

Regulations 1990 (NAMOS)
12 NAMOS aims to ensure that firefighters arriving at an incident are warned of the
presence of dangerous substances. Advice on NAMOS is available in Notification
and marking of sites HSR29.64
Control of Major Accident Hazards Regulations 1999 (COMAH)

13 COMAH aims to prevent and mitigate the effects of those major accidents
involving dangerous substances which can cause serious damage/harm to people
and/or the environment. The COMAH Regulations treat risks to the environment as
seriously as those to people. For further guidance on COMAH see the HSE website
www.hse.gov.uk/comah/guidance.htm.
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Consulting employees and safety representatives

14 Employers must consult safety representatives appointed by recognised trades
unions under the Safety Representatives and Safety Committees Regulations 1977.
Employees who are not covered by such representatives must be consulted either
directly or indirectly, through elected representatives of employee safety under the
Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996.
15 Proper consultation with those who know precisely how the work is done,
including short cuts, is crucial and helps to build a culture of awareness of health
and safety. It can benefit the business by making it more efficient and reducing
losses and damage.
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

16 These Regulations impose health and safety duties for the safe use of
electricity at work. They require electrical installations and equipment to be
properly constructed, maintained and fit for the purpose and environment in
which they are to be used. In particular, they require electrical equipment which is
exposed (or reasonably expected to be exposed) to a flammable or explosive
substances, including flammable vapours or gases, to be constructed or
protected so as to prevent danger. Advice is available in The Electricity at Work
Regulations 1989. Guidance on Regulations HSR25.65
Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable

Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009 (CDG)
17 Carrying goods by road or rail involves the risk of traffic accidents. If the goods
are dangerous, there is also the risk of incidents, such as spillage, leading to
hazards such as fire, explosion, chemical burn or environmental damage. The CDG
Regulations implement ADR with a number of exceptions which can be found in the
Carriage of dangerous goods: Approved derogations and transitional provisions
document at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-carriage-ofdangerous-goods-approved-derogations-and-transitional-provisions.
18 Flammable liquids as defined in this guidance are within scope of CDG, the aim
of which is to reduce the risks involved in transporting such substances by requiring
them to be correctly classified, packaged and labelled. The Regulations specify that
dangerous goods should be carried in suitable receptacles which will not leak under
normal handling. These should bear appropriate warning labels giving information
on the nature of the hazards.
Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996

19 These Regulations implement a European Council Directive on minimum
requirements for provision of workplace safety signs. The Directive standardises use
throughout EU member states to ensure particular signs provide the same message
wherever witnessed.
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Health and Safety Enforcing Authority Regulations 1998

20 These Regulations allocate to local authorities the responsibility for enforcing
the HSW Act and its relevant statutory provisions, subject to specific exceptions, in
all premises where the main activity is listed in Schedule 1 to the Regulations.
Food and Environment Protection Act 1985 (FEPA)

21 All pesticides are subject to FEPA, this guidance covers safety aspects of the
flammability hazards of those pesticides which are also flammable liquids.
22 Further guidance on the safe storage of pesticides may be found in Guidance
on storing pesticides for farmers and other professional users AIS16.66
Control of pollution (oil storage regulations)

23 Oil storage regulations require anyone in Great Britain who stores more than
200 l of oil to provide secure containment facilities for tanks, drums, intermediate
bulk containers (IBCs) and mobile bowsers:
Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001;

Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations (Scotland) Regulations 2003;
Water Resources (Control of Pollution) (Silage, Slurry and Agriculture Fuel Oil)
(Wales) Regulations 2010;
Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2001.
Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulations 2014

24 These Regulations apply to workplaces that store petrol and dispense it
through manual or electrical pumping from a storage tank directly into the tank of a
vehicle with an internal combustion engine. These Regulations also apply to storage
at non-workplace premises, eg private homes, clubs, associations etc.
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References
1 Storage of flammable liquids in containers HSG51 (Third edition) HSE Books
2015 ISBN 978 0 7176 6608 9 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg51.htm
2 Safe use and handling of flammable liquids HSG140 (Second edition) HSE Books
2015 ISBN 978 0 7176 6609 6 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg140.htm
3 Dangerous substances and explosive atmospheres. Dangerous Substances
and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002. Approved Code of Practice and
guidance L138 (Second edition) HSE Books 2013 ISBN 978 0 7176 6616 4
www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l138.htm
4 Safety and environmental standards for fuel storage sites Process Safety
Leadership Group Final report HSE 2009
www.hse.gov.uk/comah/buncefield/fuel-storage-sites.pdf
5 Guideline: Process Safety Leadership Group Other Products in Scope
Chemical and Downstream Oil Industries Forum
www.hse.gov.uk/aboutus/meetings/committees/cif/pslg-other-products.pdf
6 Petrol Filling Stations Guidance on Managing The Risks Of Fire & Explosion
(The Red Guide) www.energyinst.org/documents/1317
7 Code of Practice 1: Part 1 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations: Design,
Installation and Operation of Vessels Located Above Ground UKPLG 2009
www.uklpg.org
8 The bulk transfer of dangerous liquids and gases between ship and shore
HSG186 HSE Books 1999 ISBN 978 0 7176 1644 2
www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg186.htm
9 ISGOTT: International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals (Fifth edition)
Witherby Seamanship International 2006 ISBN 1 85609 291 7
10 BS EN 1127-1:2011 Explosive atmospheres. Explosion prevention and
protection. Basic concepts and methodology British Standards Institution
11 BS EN 60079-10-1:2009 Explosive atmospheres. Classification of areas.
Explosive gas atmospheres British Standards Institution
12 Model Code of Safe Practice Part 15: Area classification code for petroleum
installations handling flammable fluids (Third edition) Energy Institute 2005
www.energypublishing.org
13 Managing fire water and major spillages PPG18 Pollution Prevention
Guidelines
14 The control of fire-water run-off from CIMAH sites to prevent environmental
damage Environmental Hygiene Guidance Note EH70 HSE Books 1995
www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/eh70.htm
15 Containment systems for the prevention of pollution: Secondary, tertiary and
other measures for industrial and commercial premises C736 CIRIA www.ciria.org
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16 Emergency planning for major accidents: Control of Major Accident Hazards

Regulations 1999 HSG191 HSE Books 1999 ISBN 978 0 7176 1695 4
17 Model Code of Safe Practice Part 19: Fire precautions at petroleum refineries
and bulk storage installations Energy Institute 2012 www.energypublishing.org
18 British, European and International standards for the design and construction
of storage tanks include:
BS EN 12285-2:2005 Workshop fabricated steel tanks. Horizontal cylindrical

single skin and double skin tanks for the above-ground storage of flammable
and non-flammable water polluting liquids British Standards Institution
BS EN 12285-1:2003 Workshop fabricated steel tanks. Horizontal cylindrical

single skin and double skin tanks for the underground storage of flammable and
non-flammable water polluting liquids British Standards Institution
BS EN 14015:2004 Specification for the design and manufacture of site built,

vertical, cylindrical, flat-bottomed, above ground, welded, steel tanks for the
storage of liquids at ambient temperature and above British Standards
Institution
BS EN 13121-3:2008+A1:2010 GRP tanks and vessels for use above ground.

Design and workmanship British Standards Institution
BS EN 976 Underground tanks of glass-reinforced plastics (GRP). Horizontal

cylindrical tanks for the non-pressure storage of liquid petroleum based fuels
Part 1:1997 Requirements and test methods for single wall tanks Part 2:1997
Transport, handling, storage and installation of single wall tanks British
Standards Institution
API Standard 620 Design and construction of large, welded, low-pressure

storage tanks American Petroleum Institute
API Standard 650 Welded tanks for oil storage American Petroleum Institute
19 Glass reinforced plastic vessels and tanks: Advice to users Plant and Machinery
Guidance Note PM75 HSE 2010 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/pm75.htm
20 Thermoplastic tank integrity management: Advice to users Plant and Machinery
Guidance Note PM86 HSE Books 2010 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/pm86.htm
21 Guidance for Design, Construction, Modification, Maintenance and
Decommissioning of Filling Stations (The Blue Book) APEA www.apea.org.
uk-guidance www.apea.org.uk/publication/blue-book-pdf
22 BS EN ISO 12944-1:1998. Paints and varnishes. Corrosion protection of steel
structures by protective paint systems. General introduction British Standards
Institution
23 BS 3416:1991 Specification for bitumen-based coatings for cold application,
suitable for use in contact with potable water British Standards Institution
24 BS 6949:1991 Specification for bitumen-based coatings for cold application
excluding use in contact with potable water British Standards Institution
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25 Above ground flat bottomed storage tanks: A guide to inspection, maintenance

and repair EEMUA 159 www.eemua.co.uk
26 EFC Working Party 13: Corrosion in Oil and Gas Production European
Federation of Corrosion www.efcweb.org/Working+Parties/WP++Corrosion+in+Oil+
and+Gas+Production.html
27 Standard B31.3-2012 Process Piping American National Standards Institute
http://webstore.ansi.org/default.aspx
28 BS EN 60079-14 Explosive atmospheres. Electrical installations design,
selection and erection British Standards Institution
29 Standards for hose assemblies:
BS 3492:1987 Specification for road and rail tanker hoses and hose assemblies
for petroleum products, including aviation fuels British Standards Institution
BS EN ISO 8331:2014 Rubber and plastics hoses and hose assemblies.

Guidelines for selection, storage, use and maintenance British Standards
Institution
BS EN 12115:2011 Rubber and thermoplastics hoses and hose assemblies for

liquid or gaseous chemicals. Specification British Standards Institution
BS EN ISO 10380:2012 Pipework. Corrugated metal hoses and hose

assemblies British Standards Institution
30 PD IEC/TS 60079-32-1:2013 Explosive atmospheres. Electrostatic hazards,

guidance British Standards Institution
31 BS EN ISO 10497:2010 Testing of valves. Fire type-testing requirements British
32 Remotely operated shutoff valves (ROSOVs) for emergency isolation of
hazardous substances. Guidance on good practice HSG244 HSE Books 2004
ISBN 978 0 7176 2803 2 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg244.htm
33 Model Code of Safe Practice Part 21: Guidelines for the control of hazards
arising from static electricity Energy Institute 2013 ISBN 978 0 85293 636 8
www.energypublishing.org
34 Guidelines for the design and operation of gasoline vapour emission controls at
distribution terminals (Third edition) Energy Institute 2008 www.energypublishing.org
35 BS EN ISO 28300:2008 Petroleum, petrochemical and natural gas industries.
Venting of atmospheric and low-pressure storage tanks British Standards Institution
36 BS EN 14015:2004 Specification for the design and manufacture of site built,
vertical, cylindrical, flat-bottomed, above ground, welded, steel tanks for the storage
of liquids at ambient temperature and above British Standards Institute
37 ANSI/API Standard 2000 Venting Atmospheric and Low-pressure Storage
Tanks
38 BS EN 14025:2008 Tanks for the transport of dangerous goods. Metallic
pressure tanks. Design and construction British Standards Institution
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39 EEMUA 180 Frangible Roof Joints for Fixed Roof Storage Tanks: Guide for
Designers and Users www.eemua.co.uk
40 BS 7430:2011 Code of practice for protective earthing of electrical installations
British Standards Institution
41 Guidance for the storage and handling of fuel grade ethanol at petroleum
distribution installations Energy Institute 2008 www.energypublishing.org
42 Pollution prevention guidelines 7: The safe operation of refuelling facilities PPG7
Environment Agency 2011 www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/
attachment_data/file/290123/pmho0711btzl-e-e.pdf
43 Lighting at work HSG38 (Second edition) HSE Books 1998
ISBN 978 0 7176 1232 1 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg38.htm
44 Safety requirements for pressure testing General Guidance Note GS4
HSE Books 2012 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/gs4.htm
45 Standards for heated tanks and associated heating equipment
BS 799-5:2010 Oil burning equipment. Carbon steel oil storage tanks.

Specification British Standards Institution
BS 5410-1:1997 Code of practice for oil firing. Installations up to 45 kW output

capacity for space heating and hot water supply purposes British Standards
Institution
BS 5410-2:2013 Code of practice for oil firing. Installations over 45 kW output

capacity for space heating, hot water and steam supply services British
BS 5410-3:1976 Code of practice for oil firing. Installations for furnaces, kilns,
ovens and other industrial purposes British Standards Institution
BS EN 13480-1:2012 Metallic industrial piping. General British Standards

Institution
46 Model Code of Safe Practice Part 11: Bitumen Safety Code (Fourth edition)
Energy Institute 2005 www.energypublishing.org
47 BS EN 60079-30-1:2007 Explosive atmospheres. Electrical resistance trace
heating. General and testing requirements British Standards Institution
48 Petroleum road tanker design and construction (Third edition) Energy Institute
2010 www.energypublishing.org
49 Automatic Overfill Prevention Systems for Terminal Loading Racks CDOIF
Guideline www.hse.gov.uk/comah/guideline-loading-arm-overfill-prevention.pdf
50 Terminal Loading Operations Hazard Awareness CDOIF Guideline
www.hse.gov.uk/comah/guideline-terminal-loading-operations-hazard-awareness.pdf
51 BS 5958-1:1991 Code of Practice for control of undesirable static electricity.
General considerations British Standards Institution
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52 The mechanical integrity of plant containing hazardous substances: A guide to

periodic examination and testing EEMUA 231 www.eemua.org
53 Guidance on permit-to-work systems: A guide for the petroleum, chemical and
allied industries HSG250 HSE Books 2005 ISBN 978 0 7176 2943 5
54 The cleaning and gas freeing of tanks containing flammable residues Chemical
Safety Guidance Note CS15 HSE Books 1985 ISBN 978 0 1188 3518 3
www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/cs15.htm
55 Safe work in confined spaces. Confined Spaces Regulations 1997. Approved
Code of Practice, Regulations and guidance L101 (Third edition) HSE Books 2014
ISBN 978 0 7176 6622 5 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l101.htm
56 Model Code of Safe Practice Part 16: Tank cleaning safety code Energy
Institute 2008 ISBN 9780852934364
57 BS 6187:2011 Code of practice for full and partial demolition British Standards
Institution
58 Fire safety in construction: Guidance for clients, designers and those managing
and carrying out construction work involving significant fire risks HSG168
(Second edition) HSE Books 2010 ISBN 978 0 7176 6345 3
59 BS 9999:2008 Code of practice for fire safety in the design, management and
use of buildings British Standards Institution
60 BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007 Portable fire extinguishers. Characteristics,
performance requirements and test methods British Standards Institution
61 BS 5306 Code of practice for fire extinguishing installations and equipment on
premises Part 1:2006 Code of practice for fire extinguishing installations and
equipment on premises. Hose reels and foam inlets Part 3:2009 Fire extinguishing
installations and equipment on premises. Commissioning and maintenance of
portable fire extinguishers. Code of practice British Standards Institution
62 Safety signs and signals. The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals)
Regulations 1996. Guidance on Regulations L64 (Third edition) HSE Books 2015
ISBN 978 0 7176 6598 3 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l64.htm
63 BS EN ISO 7010:2012 Graphical symbols. Safety colours and safety signs.
Registered safety signs British Standards Institution
64 Notification and marking of sites. The Dangerous Substances (Notification and
Marking of Sites) Regulations 1990. Guidance on Regulations HSR29 HSE Books
1990 ISBN 978 0 1188 5435 1 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/hsr29.htm
65 The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Guidance on Regulations HSR25
(Third edition) HSE Books 2015 ISBN 978 0 7176 6636 2
www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/hsr25.htm
66 Guidance on storing pesticides for farmers and other professional users
AIS16(rev1) HSE 2012 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/ais16.htm
67 BS 476 Fire tests on building materials and structures British Standards Institution
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68 BS EN ISO 16852:2010 Flame arresters. Performance requirements, test

methods and limits for use British Standards Institution
69 BS 476-4:1970 Fire tests on building materials and structures.
Non-combustibility test for materials British Standards Institution
70 BS 476-11:1982 Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method for
assessing the heat emission from building materials British Standards Institution
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Glossary
ambient ambient temperature is the temperature of an immediate locality.
auto-ignition temperature the minimum temperature at which a material will
ignite spontaneously under specified test conditions. Also referred to as the
minimum ignition temperature.
bund an area surrounded by a bund wall in which liquid spillage is contained. Also
the raised perimeter of an area used to contain and prevent the spreading of liquids.
combustible capable of burning in air when ignited.
element of construction any wall, floor, ceiling, roof, door or window (including
the frame) etc which forms part of a building, room or other enclosure.
enforcing authority the authority with responsibility for enforcing the the HSW Act
and other relevant statutory provisions.
fire resistance the ability of a material, product, assembly or structure to fulfil, for
a stated period of time, the required stability against the passage of flame and hot
gases, and if additionally specified, thermal insulation and/or load-bearing capacity
in a standard fire resistance test. See L138 (regulation 7 and Schedules 24).
fire wall an imperforate wall, screen or partition capable of affording at least 30
minutes fire resistance, if tested in accordance with BS 47667 against the passage
of flame or heat.
fire-resisting able to fulfil, for a stated period of time, the required stability, fire
integrity and/or thermal insulation, where appropriate, in a standard fire resistance
test. See Appendix.
flame arrester a device consisting of an element, a housing and associated
fittings which is constructed and used to prevent the passage of flame. An arrester
may be categorised as either an end-of-line deflagration arrester, an in-line
deflagration arrester or a detonation arrester see BS EN ISO 1685268 for
requirements and test methods. Most flame arresters consist of an assembly
containing narrow passages or apertures through which gases or vapours can flow
but which are too small for a flame to pass through.
flammable capable of burning with a flame.
flammable liquid for the purpose of this book, flammable liquid means a liquid
with a flashpoint of 60 C or below and stored at a near atmospheric pressure.
flammable range the concentration of a flammable vapour in air falling between
the upper and lower explosion limits.
flashpoint the minimum temperature at which a liquid, under specific test
conditions, gives off sufficient flammable vapour to ignite momentarily on the
application of an ignition source.
hazard anything with the potential for causing harm. The harm may be to people,
property or the environment, and may result from substances, machines, methods
of work or work organisation.
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hazardous area an area where flammable or explosive gas, or vapourair mixtures

(often referred to as explosive gasair mixtures) are, or may be expected to be, present
in quantities which require special precautions to be taken against the risk of ignition.
HFL highly flammable liquid.
hot work this includes welding or the use of any equipment likely to cause flame,
sparks or heat.
impounding basin an enclosure for collecting liquid spillage from one or more sources.
incendive having sufficient energy to ignite a flammable mixture.
inert incapable of supporting combustion; to render incapable of supporting
combustion.
interceptor (also known as separator) a device installed in a surface water
drainage system to separate out any immiscible solvents and thus prevent them
from reaching public drains, sewers or watercourses.
lower explosion limit (LEL) the minimum concentration of vapour in air below
which propagation of a flame will not occur in the presence of an ignition source.
Also referred to as the lower flammable limit or lower explosive limit.
non-combustible material a material that fulfils the criteria for non-combustibility
given in BS 476-4.69 If tested to BS 476-11,70 it does not flame nor causes any rise
in temperature on either the centre (specimen) or furnace thermocouples. Noncombustible material is totally inorganic, such as concrete, fired clay, ceramic,
masonry, plaster or steel/steel alloy.
permit-to-work (PTW) a document issued by an authorised person to permit
work to be carried out safely in a defined area under specified conditions.
reasonably practicable this means balancing the level of risk against the measures
needed to control the real risk in terms of money, time or trouble. However, you do
not need to take action if it would be grossly disproportionate to the level of risk.
risk the chance however large or small that a hazard could cause harm.
ullage space the free space between the fluid level and the top of its container, to
allow for expansion.
underground tank a tank buried in the ground so that no part of the tank is
above ground except for fittings attached to the tank.
upper explosion limit (UEL) the maximum concentration of vapour in air above
which the propagation of a flame will not occur. Also referred to as the upper
flammable limit or the upper explosion limit.
vapour the gaseous phase released by evaporation from a material that is a liquid
at normal temperatures and pressure.
viscosity the degree to which a fluid tends to resist relative motion within itself.
Examples of viscous fluids are treacle and heavy fuel oils.
zone the classified part of a hazardous area, representing the probability of a
flammable vapour (or gas) and air mixture being present. These are defined in
Schedule 2 to regulation 7(1) of DSEAR.
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Further information
For information about health and safety, or to report inconsistencies or inaccuracies
in this guidance, visit www.hse.gov.uk/. You can view HSE guidance online and
order priced publications from the website. HSE priced publications are also
available from bookshops.
British Standards can be obtained in PDF or hard copy formats from BSI:
http://shop.bsigroup.com or by contacting BSI Customer Services for hard copies
only Tel: 0845 086 9001 email: cservices@bsigroup.com.
The Stationery Office publications are available from The Stationery Office,
PO Box 29, Norwich NR3 1GN Tel: 0870 600 5522 Fax: 0870 600 5533
email: customer.services@tso.co.uk Website: www.tsoshop.co.uk. (They are also
available from bookshops.) Statutory Instruments can be viewed free of charge at
www.legislation.gov.uk where you can also search for changes to legislation.
This guidance is issued by the Health and Safety Executive. Following the guidance
is not compulsory, unless specifically stated, and you are free to take other action.
But if you do follow the guidance you will normally be doing enough to comply with
the law. Health and safety inspectors seek to secure compliance with the law and
may refer to this guidance.
This guidance is available online at: www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg176.htm
Crown copyright If you wish to reuse this information visit
www.hse.gov.uk/copyright for details. First published 09/15
Published by the Health and Safety Executive
09/15
HSG176 (Second edition)
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What are flammable liquids?

What are flammable liquids?

What are the common causes of incidents involving flammable liquids?

What are the common causes of incidents involving flammable liquids?

Health and Safety

Storage of flammable liquids in

Storage of flammable liquids in containers HSG51;

It supplements the advice contained in Dangerous substances and explosive

Health and Safety

What the guidance does not apply to 7

Common causes of incidents 9

Separation distances for groups of small tanks 22

Design and construction 26

Health and Safety

Emergency relief venting 35

Loading and unloading facilities 41

Design of a road tanker loading/unloading facility 41

Health and Safety

Atmospheres Regulations 1996 (EPS) 58

Storage of flammable liquids in tanks

Health and Safety

Storage of flammable liquids in containers HSG51;1

6 This document complements Dangerous substances and explosive

8 The guidance may also be useful to professional bodies, trade organisations

Storage of flammable liquids in tanks

Health and Safety

10 In this guidance, flammable liquid means a liquid with a flashpoint of 60 C or

the Environment Agency in England www.environment-agency.gov.uk/

13 Following the fire and explosion at Buncefield in 2005, additional

Storage of flammable liquids in tanks

Health and Safety

What the guidance does not apply to

flammable liquids stored in portable containers and drums with capacities of

16 Health and safety legislation relevant to sites manufacturing, using or storing

Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres

Storage of flammable liquids in tanks

Health and Safety

General fire safety legislation

Storage of flammable liquids in tanks

Health and Safety

Figure 1 The fire triangle

Common causes of incidents

lack of awareness of the properties of flammable liquids;

24 Incidents involving flammable liquids commonly arise during transfer operations,

movement from storage;

Storage of flammable liquids in tanks

Health and Safety

Storage of flammable liquids in tanks

Health and Safety

Storage of flammable liquids in tanks

Health and Safety

how the flammable liquid could be released;

42 Factors which should be considered when assessing a storage installation include:

Storage of flammable liquids in tanks

Health and Safety

design standards for the installation;

Storage of flammable liquids in tanks

Health and Safety

these are sufficient distance away; or