The benefits of bunded oil tanks
Why is it important to have a good quality bunded oil tank installed?
Oil tanks are used to store fuel for heating systems for both domestic and commercial users. Having a good quality bunded oil tank installed means that you’re less likely to have problems with your heating. This is especially important in the cooler months. Vitally, it also protects against hazardous leaks and spills.
Poor quality, damaged or corroded oil tanks pose a significant risk to the environment and public safety if they leak or spill. That’s why bunded oil tanks have become increasingly popular in recent years. A spill isn’t just costly in terms of lost fuel – clean-up can be extremely expensive too. In some cases, you might even face prosecution.
What is a bunded oil tank?
A bunded oil tank is a type of tank that has two layers: an inner tank that holds the oil and an outer tank that acts as a secondary containment system in case of leaks or spills. The outer tank is designed to hold 110% of the volume of the inner tank, providing a safe containment area in case of a leak.
OFTEC regulations
Bunded oil tanks are required by law in many areas of the UK. OFTEC regulations state that all new or replacement oil tanks with a capacity of over 3,500 litres must be bunded. Single-skin oil tanks are only allowed in certain circumstances, such as when the tank is located within a permanent secondary containment system. A registered OFTEC oil tank installer will conduct a risk assessment of your site and will be able to tell you how you can ensure compliance with regulations.
Oil tanks also have to comply with local Building Regulations. As these laws are frequently updated, it’s usually prudent to install a bunded oil tank even if you’re legally allowed to install a single-skinned tank. This means that you’re not going to have to shell out for a bunded oil tank if the regulations in your area change.
Oil theft prevention
Bunded oil tanks help to prevent fuel theft. The extra layer of protection makes it more difficult for thieves to access the oil. Bunded oil tanks can also reduce your insurance costs due to the increased safety they provide.
Choosing your oil tank
When it comes to purchasing a bunded oil tank, there are many options available. At Atlantis Tanks, we offer a range of high-quality bunded oil tanks. Our tanks are manufactured in the UK to the highest standards, meet all the necessary regulations and come with an industry-leading warranty.
The standard range includes plastic bunded oil tanks with capacities ranging from 650 litres to 15,000 litres and no less than 27 steel bunded oil tanks with capacities ranging between 900 to 20,000 litres. It also offers a range of oil tank accessories, such as tank gauges, flow meters, alarms and locks.
Custom oil tanks
If you need a tank of a non-standard capacity or unusual configuration, Atlantis Tanks provides a custom tank design and manufacturing service.
Read more about our bespoke oil tanks.
Installing a new oil tank
OFTEC sets the standards for the installation and maintenance of oil tanks. This is why it’s essential to choose an OFTEC registered installer to ensure that your oil tank is installed correctly and safely. A registered installer will make sure that your oil tank complies with local regulations. They also have insurance to protect you from the costs of any accidents that might occur during the installation.
Atlantis Tanks has a family of OFTEC registered installers across the UK who install oil tanks to the highest standards.
What to do now
If you’re ready to purchase a bunded oil tank, browse the full range on the Atlantis Tanks website. However, we know that choosing a new tank can be daunting as there are so many options and decisions to make. If you’d like to speak to our experienced customer services team before choosing your tank, give them a call on 0300 999 1100 or email [email protected].