Fuel Tank setup: Fuel Tank Installation Guide

Maintaining safe and compliant fuel storage begins with your initial installation. When you store fuel onsite, you’re responsible for meeting health and safety regulations and following local guidelines. This all begins with fuel tank installation which, if not done correctly, can lead to issues later on. 

At Western Global, our fuel tanks come filled and ready to install, with an easy set up process that takes minimal time to sort. We can help ensure that your tank is installed properly so you can stay compliant and ensure safety onsite. However, you still need to understand fuel tank installation requirements, whether it’s brand new tank or second hand. Here are our fuel tank installation tips to get you set up once you’ve received your tank onsite.

Before you begin your above-ground fuel tank installation, refer to any local regulations regarding the storage of oil – and carry out any specific risk assessments they recommend. Before you begin, refer to any local regulations regarding the storage of oil – and carry out any specific risk assessments they recommend. The precautions you need to take will vary depending on the fuel tank manufacturer and your local area, so it’s best to do your research. Some of the common considerations include:

• Clear safety markings both on and around your fuel tank labelling its contents
• Positioning your tank in a location away from hazards, impact or environmental risks, such as flooding. 
• Dispensing and pumping equipment must meet relevant regulations

Our fuel tanks meet more standards and approvals than any others on the market, including when they might be placed in environmentally sensitive sites. So, ensuring a compliant solution needn’t present problems. Our tanks adhere to regulations such as US DOT and UL 142, and are designed for easy installation. They are also bunded, you experience an extra layer of security that aligns with onsite compliance and simplifies the inspection process.

Fuel tank installation procedures

Firstly, allocate a safe place for fuel storage tank installation – on firm, level ground – away from potential health and safety risks. This should also be away from any residential or office buildings. Locate the tank on a paved or asphalt surface to help with pollution prevention, ensuring it’s level – enabling you to use the whole volume of diesel safely.

Next ensure you have the correct firefighting equipment (powder or foam), plus spill response products such as clay covers and absorbent granules. You’ll need to assess when and how the tank will be used, and who it will be used by. Anyone operating it will need to be competent to use the tank and associated safety equipment.

If the tank has previously been used (second-hand) it must be thoroughly inspected prior to your first fill. When you’re ready, fill the tank to 95% capacity. This will enable you to prime the feedlines and pumps. This is only required for first-time use, or after the tank has been fully drained.

Ready to install: Western Global fuel tanks

The guidelines provided above are a fuel tank installation overview, and regulations vary in different areas. Any regulations provided by the authorities in your jurisdiction will always take precedence. We’re always on hand and ready to help if you have any questions, no matter where you and your tank are in the world. 

Western Global fuel tanks come ready to install onsite, with set up only taking hours rather than days. Any pumps, gauges or additional features are also fixed to your tank before it arrives so you can get up and running as quickly as possible. 

The TransCube Global, our best-selling bunded tank, comes with a removable inner tank incorporated into its design, so even when you’ve set up your fuel tank onsite, you can still easily inspect and maintain your tank in line with regulations. Get in touch to find out more about our tanks or if you’re looking for installation advice. You can also view our product range.