What is a single skin tank?

A single skin oil tank consists of a single container in which the fuel is stored. Unlike bunded oil tanks and bunded fuel tanks, single skin oil tanks incorporate no secondary containment. In the event of a spill, a pollution incident occurs.

Single skin oil tanks are not suitable for the storage of fuel at commercial, industrial or institutional premises, or at domestic installations with an installed capacity of over 2,500 litres – unless installed within a suitably bunded area.

For all other installations, an Oil Tank Risk Assessment must be undertaken by a competent person prior to installation and in accordance with the requirements of OFTEC Technical Instruction Book 3. In anticipation of possible future regulations, serious consideration should be given to fitting a bunded tank, even where a single skin tank may currently suffice.