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Bunded Fuel Tanks

What are Bunded Fuel Tanks and Why Do They Matter?

Protecting Fuel Storage – Ensuring Compliance Across High-Risk Sites

Fuel is the heartbeat of many industries — from transport and logistics to emergency services and construction. But with fuel comes risk, and storing it safely is both a legal requirement and an operational priority. That’s where bunded fuel tanks come in. These double-layered systems are the gold standard for secure, compliant fuel storage, helping organisations across the UK reduce risk and meet regulatory expectations.

What Is A Bunded Fuel Tank?

A bunded fuel tank is a specialist storage unit that includes a secondary containment system. The inner tank holds the fuel, while the outer ‘bund’ contains any spills, overfills, or leaks. By law, the bund must hold at least 110% of the fuel in the inner tank, providing critical protection in the event of failure or damage.

These tanks are commonly used across high-risk and high-volume fuel storage sites where failure could result in serious environmental, financial, or reputational consequences.

Why Bunded Tanks Are Essential for Compliance

Without a bunded tank, a minor leak can quickly escalate into a major pollution incident. In the UK, the Environment Agency, SEPA, and other regulatory bodies enforce strict rules on fuel containment.

Businesses storing more than 200 litres of oil – whether red diesel, HVO, or white diesel – are typically required to use bunded tanks. These tanks help operators meet the Oil Storage Regulations (England) 2001, comply with EA guidelines, and prepare for site inspections or insurance audits.

Benefits Beyond Legal Compliance

A bunded tank doesn’t just tick boxes — it supports smarter, safer, and more resilient operations.

  • Improved health & safety for staff
  • Simplified maintenance and early fault detection
  • Reduced fire and contamination risks
  • Easier auditing for insurers or regulators
  • Long-term cost savings from spill prevention and better durability.
 

If your business depends on clean, uninterrupted fuel access, a bunded system is an investment in operational continuity.

Octane’s Turnkey Bunded Tank Solutions

Octane Holding Group offers bespoke bunded tank systems as part of our broader fuel infrastructure and environmental services. Whether it’s a new build or a retrofit, we manage the entire process:

  • System specification based on your fuel volume and risk profile
  • Tank supply, siting, and secure installation
  • Pipework, dispensing systems, and integration with fuel management systems
  • Full certification, compliance documentation, and aftercare support
 

All our tanks meet the highest standards for safety, environmental resilience, and industry compliance.

Not Sure If Your Tank Is Compliant? Let’s Talk

Single-skin tanks are increasingly being phased out – and for good reason. If your current system lacks bunding, is outdated, or doesn’t meet EA thresholds, you could be exposing your business to serious risks.

Contact Octane and we’ll assess your current setup, identify potential issues, and recommend compliant, future-ready upgrades tailored to your site.

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