Safe machinery use around above ground fuel tanks
In this article
What is an above ground fuel tank?
Hazards of machinery use around above-ground fuel tanks
Reducing the risks of incidents
Above-ground fuel tanks are widely used across industries to store flammable liquids such as diesel, petrol and other fuels. These tanks are essential for powering machinery, vehicles and equipment, particularly in industries such as agriculture, construction and mining. However, their presence on-site introduces several safety risks. Ensuring proper machinery safety practices around these tanks is crucial in preventing incidents. This guide provides information on the hazards of machinery use around above ground fuel tanks, protective measures to implement and the importance of operator education in maintaining safety around above ground fuel tanks.
What is an above-ground fuel tank?
Above ground fuel tanks are containers specifically designed for the safe storage of flammable or combustible liquids, typically constructed from steel or other durable materials. As the name suggests, above ground fuel tanks are placed on the surface rather than buried underground, allowing for easier access for refuelling and inspections however, this also increases the exposure to potential hazards.
Fuel tanks are commonly found in locations where heavy machinery is used such as:
- Construction sites
- Agricultural farms
- Mines
- Manufacturing plants
- Utility sites
- Ports and harbours
- Logistics yards
Hazards relating to using machinery around above ground fuel tanks
Working with machinery near above ground fuel tanks presents several safety challenges. The following hazards are among the most significant.
Fire and explosions
Fuel vapours are highly flammable and can ignite if exposed to heat, sparks or open flames. The presence of machinery, which often involves engines, electrical systems and hot surfaces, can increase the risk of accidental ignition.
Vehicle collision
Machinery can collide with fuel tanks during operation. This can result in punctures, spills or even tank ruptures, which heightens the risk of fire or environmental contamination.
Vibration and impact damage
Heavy machinery can cause vibrations that may weaken fuel tank structures or connections over time. Repeated vibrations could lead to cracks, leaks or mechanical failures in the tank.
Reducing the risk of incidents involving above ground fuel tanks
There are many effective ways to mitigate the risk incidents involving machinery and above ground fuel tanks. Some of these strategies include:
Bollards and barriers
Installing bollards or barriers around the fuel tank can create a physical barrier between the tank and moving machinery. These barriers are designed to absorb the force of an impact and minimise potential damage to the tank.
Raised platforms
Elevating the fuel tank on a raised platform can offer added protection. A platform can keep the tank at a safer distance from moving vehicles and equipment while still allowing for easy access during refuelling.
Safe traffic zones
Clearly marking and enforcing restricted zones for machinery movement near fuel tanks can help minimise the risk of collisions. Consider implementing designated paths for vehicles to reduce the likelihood of a tank being struck by machinery.
Signage
Proper signage plays a crucial role in maintaining safety around above ground fuel tanks, particularly in reducing the risk of collisions with machinery. Clear and strategically placed signs can alert operators to the presence of fuel tanks, help control traffic flow and ensure everyone on-site is aware of the potential dangers and the contents of the fuel tank.
Spill containment
Fuel spills pose a major safety and environmental hazard. Spill containment measures are essential to prevent leaked fuel from spreading and causing further damage. Common spill containment strategies include:
Secondary containment systems
Secondary containment involves constructing a containment area, such as a bund, around the fuel tank. These systems are designed to capture any spilled fuel and prevent it from reaching the surrounding environment. The capacity of the containment area should be large enough to contain the entire volume of the tank.
Spill kits
Spill response kits should be readily available near fuel tanks. These kits typically include absorbent materials, protective gloves and disposal containers to clean small spills quickly and efficiently.
Automatic shutoff valves
Automatic valves can be installed on fuel tanks to immediately stop the flow of fuel in the event of a leak or spill. This technology can greatly reduce the amount of fuel that escapes during an incident.
Educating operators
While protective equipment and containment measures play a vital role in mitigating the risk of striking above ground fuel tanks with machinery, human error remains a significant risk factor. Proper operator education and training of operators is crucial in minimising these risks.
Key aspects of operator training should include:
Recognising hazards
Operators must be trained to identify potential hazards related to working near fuel tanks, such as the risk of fire, spills and collisions. This knowledge can empower them to take the necessary precautions while operating machinery.
Safe machinery operation
Operators must be educated on how to safely manoeuvre and operate machinery around above ground fuel tanks, including maintaining a safe distance from the tank, avoiding sudden movements and using spotters if visibility is limited. They should also be aware of the dangers of striking or damaging the tank while in operation.
Emergency response
In the event of a fuel spill or fire, operators should be trained in emergency response procedures. This includes knowing how to use fire extinguishers, deploy spill kits and evacuate the area if necessary.
Safe access to the fuel tank
Machinery operators and other workers on site should be trained in the safe access to above ground fuel tanks, should they need to access it in the event of an emergency. Many above ground fuel tanks feature vertical ladders which can be prone to slip hazards therefore, all workers on site need to be educated on fuel tank safe access.
Need more information on operating machinery safely near above ground fuel tanks?
Ideagen Plant Assessor can help. Contact our team of machinery safety experts on 1300 728 852 or info@assessor.com.au for further advice.
Disclaimer: This information is intended to provide general information on the subject matter. This is not intended as legal or expert advice for your specific situation. You should seek professional advice before acting or relying on the content of this information.