How to store fuel safely and securely

Whether you use it for your business or you have it at home, it’s essential to store fuel correctly. The integrity of your fuel can be affected if it’s not stored right, not to mention poor fuel storage could increase the risk of a major fire on your premises.

No matter the reason for having fuel on hand, it’s crucial to do your research to prevent a fuel related incident. From choosing the appropriate storage container to making sure the temperature of the storage space is compatible with the product, there are several factors to consider when storing fuel.

Here, we explore how to store fuel to keep it safe and secure.

Choose appropriate containers

It’s important to choose the container you store your fuel in carefully, as fuel is a reactive liquid and if the wrong kind of container is used, it could react with the material which would render it unusable.  Choose an airtight container to ensure the fuel doesn’t leak and cause a slip or fire hazard.

Store fuel away from hazards

Fuel is a flammable liquid, so it’s crucial to store it away from anything that could be a fire hazard. This includes electrical equipment and material that could act as kindling, such as paper recycling.

Opt for fire-resistant storage containers and ensure they are tightly sealed to prevent vapours escaping, as these easily catch fire if an ignition source is nearby. Keep a fire extinguisher close to your fuel store, so you’re prepared in the event of accident.

Know the conditions of your fuel

Different types of fuel can resist different temperatures, so it’s important to be aware of the freezing point of your fuel. If you’re unsure, use a hydrometer to identify the freezing point of your fuel. Once you know the freezing point, ensure your fuel store is kept above the temperature, as once fuel freezes or frosts, it will be unable to be used.

Handle your fuel with care

Fuel is an extremely dangerous liquid, so it’s crucial to be careful when handling it. Always use a funnel when pouring it to reduce the risk of spills. Any fuel which is spilt, must be cleaned up immediately and if it gets on your clothes, you should change them straight away.

If a fuel spillage is not cleared up properly, it poses a huge fire risk, so it’s especially important to pay close attention to your surroundings when handling fuel.

Understand the laws on storing fuel

In the UK, there are a number of laws around storing petrol safely. Take some time to familiarise yourself with these laws and understand your responsibilities. For example, there are different amounts of petrol storage allowed for those who are keeping fuel for personal use, compared with those who use it for business purposes.