The solution in this case was to move the tank location to a position that was both compliant with regulations and more practical for the owners. The new base consists of a poured concrete base, block supports together with flat 60cm by 60cm cast slabs. This is to give the tank support over its full length. Tanker fuel delivery drivers often use the base to stand on, so we advise no overhang of the slabs. In some cases, a new base in not required as the existing base is compliant. We can also extend existing bases should they need it.

This photo shows an example of a single skin tank that required replacing for one of our clients. The issues found during the on-site survey included: - Unsafe base that was not compliant with building regulations, Old style optical fuel gauge that is a tank weak point. The tank showed signs of bleaching and UV expose causing crazing on the surface. Mounted next to a wooden shed this tank was also too close to a combustible fuel source. Not shown too clearly in the picture is the issue with the 10mm fuel pipe, it was not plastic coated.

Prior to siting the new tank on the base, the old fuel pipe was dug out and replaced with 10mm plastic coated pipe. This is needed to ensure that no corrosion can take place that could lead to leakage of kerosene. Plastic warning tape should be placed above the buried pipe. Very few cases need the original fuel pipe to be replaced, normally the new tank will be connected to the existing pipeline.

Once all the kerosene fuel has been removed from the old tank it is cut into pieces to enable ease of transport from site. The old tank sections are taken to accredited recycling centres that specialise in contaminated plastics. The site is then tidied, any tools and residues removed. A final check is made to ensure no leaks and that the oil boiler has not been affected by the tank change over. 

The original tank is then emptied of kerosene. In most cases we use a temporary fuel tank to hold the kerosene as most new tanks are located on the original existing bases. In this case the new tank was relocated enabling pumping directly from the existing tank into the new tank. This operation is performed with regular stops to ensure minimising any possibility of environmental contamination. Only pure kerosene is pumped into the new tank. Any contaminated kerosene from the old tank is removed off site to be disposed of via accredited recycling operations.

The new tank is then sited onto the base. The levels and dimensions are checked. The fitting kit which consists of the tank outlet and in line filter is attached. The fuel line is then attached, all connections are checked, and the valve closed. The watchman electronic fuel gauge is twinned up with the receiver and the attached to the internal tank. 

Before                                  After

The completed installation