Petroleum Licence
Petrol - Why is it licensed?
Petrol is a highly flammable liquid and gives off flammable vapour even at very low temperatures. When this vapour is mixed with air in proportions between 1% and 8% a risk of fire or explosion exists. Petrol vapour is heavier than air and does not disperse easily in still conditions. It tends to sink to the lowest possible level of its surroundings and may accumulate in tanks, cavities, drains, pits or other depressions.
Flammable atmospheres may also exist where clothing or other absorbent material or substances are contaminated with petrol. Petrol vapour can have acute or chronic effects if inhaled and therefore should be considered in the assessment required under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999 (COSHH).
Petrol Licensing Authority
We are the petroleum licensing authority responsible for ensuring safety at sites within Poole where petrol is delivered, stored and dispensed.
Petrol - General Safety
Where petrol might be used (e.g. mobile equipment, generators) or workers exposed to other petrol fire/explosion risks (e.g. garage workshops) an assessment needs to be carried out on the risks involved to ensure that adequate control measures are taken. Contact us for advice on petrol safety covering safe storage, carriage.
When draining petrol tanks, appropriate advice includes:
- choose a level, well-ventilated area, preferably out of doors
- never drain petrol over a pit.
- keep all sources of ignition well away.
- use a proper fuel retriever or siphon
- if draining into a container, use a funnel
- do not attempt hot work on petrol tanks
Petrol Storage and Filing Stations in the Poole Area
The keeping of petrol must be in accordance with conditions attached to a licence issued under the Petroleum (Regulation) Acts 1928 & 1936. When we inspect or visit a petrol filling station the aim is to ensure the observance, maintenance and, where necessary, the improvement of safety standards.
Under COSHH 1999 a suitable and sufficient risk assessment is required for all jobs carried out involving petrol. This may involve emergency procedures (spillages or accidental ingestion), protective clothing to prevent skin contact and precautions to control exposure by inhalation.
Other safety-related legislation is enforced by district councils or the HSE, dependent on the main activity at the premises concerned.
Petroleum Storage Annual Inspection
Storage of petroleum spirit and mixtures requires an Electrical certificate for new installations and Annual inspection of existing installations - this must be provided by an appropriately qualified and experienced electrician.
How do I apply for a Petroleum Storage Licence?
There is an application fee which must be paid at the time the application is made. There are also copies of the standard conditions which form part of the licence to store Petroleum Spirit. You can also contact us for further advice on standard conditions.
Part III Drivers Licence
Petrol filling stations may apply for Part III Drivers licences as required by the Road Traffic (Carriage of Dangerous Substances in Road Tankers and Tank Containers) Regulations 1992.
There is an application fee which must be paid at the time the application is made. You can also contact us for a copy of the application form.
Offences and Penalties
Failure to comply with these Regulations may lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000.
Further Information
This information is only a brief guide, for further information please contact us.
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