Not having to worry about running to the gas station, and finding a gas station that carries diesel, can be a huge time saver for your business if you utilize a large quantity of diesel fuel for your equipment. Storing diesel fuel onsite offers many advantages if you follow the safety requirements.
One of the biggest advantages of having onsite diesel tanks, in addition to saving you time, is that you’ll save money. Purchasing diesel will provide a price break and you can even have your tank set up for automatic delivery!
Installing fuel storage tanks does require you to follow both state and federal regulations since it is a flammable liquid. You will also be required to maintain the tanks as well as keep the fuel inside safe from contamination and moisture – which occurs more frequent in tanks where fuel isn’t consumed quickly.
Many businesses and farms that choose to store fuel on site utilize an above ground storage tank. They are easier to inspect, paint, relocate, and monitor for any leaks – which are also less common because they are easier to maintain. However, they can be more susceptible to vehicle damage, vandalism, fuel theft, and damage by nature. Having them in well-lit areas that are monitored and have proper barriers for protection can help eliminate those threats.
It’s important to know all the state, federal, and local laws before installing a tank onto your site. Common guidelines provided by the National Fire Protection Association can include:
- Using a tank that is designated for outdoor use and has an Underwriters Listed (UL) stamp.
- Tanks that are designated to handle flammable liquids. Many have a two-hour fire rating; however, diesel fuel tanks do not have to carry a two-hour fire rating if the flash point is greater than 100-degrees Fahrenheit.
- Utilizing a tank that can handle several weeks to a month’s worth of fuel. By limiting the fill ups, you reduce the risk of a spill. Keep in mind that you should not fill a tank over 95 percent capacity to allow for expansion.
- Place the tank on a high, well-drained site, a minimum of 40 feet from any buildings, water tributary or combustible materials.
- The storage area shall be free of weeds and other combustible material.
- Open flames and smoking shall not be permitted in the area.
- The tanks should be installed in an east-west orientation to reduce the amount of solar radiation the tank receives.
- The tank should be marked with the name of the fuel contents and a sign with “FLAMMABLE–KEEP FIRE AND FLAME AWAY.” The words should be at least six inches in height and be in a bright red color.
- “NO SMOKING” signs should also be conspicuously exhibited from various angles of approach.
- Class B type fire extinguishers should be mounted in easy to access locations.
- Do not place tanks where ignition sources such as welding and cutting torches are likely to be used.
- Tank saddles (either concrete or steel) are required by law unless tanks in contact with the ground are protected against corrosion.
- A roof structure is recommended to reduce evaporation and condensation effects and to keep water from collecting in the catch basin. It also provides shelter, to some extent, Proper management of the risks associated with aboveground storage tanks is essential. Everyone who works on or around the equipment or the fuel storage locations should be trained to identify and eliminate risks. They should also know how to conduct routine inspections of fuel storage containers, dispense fuel and operate pump shutoffs properly.
You should also train all employees who will be working near or with any of the fuel. They should understand how to deal with and contain spills, the proper cleanup procedures, and how to safely operate any equipment that uses the fuel. OSHA provides a wealth of knowledge when it comes to the rules and regulations for handling and storing petroleum-based fuels.
Have questions about having diesel fuel delivered to your job site – give us a call! We’ve got you covered.
