Petrol is a dangerous substance; it is a highly flammable liquid and can give off vapour which can easily be set on fire and when not handled safely has the potential to cause a serious fire and/or explosion.
Petrol is a dangerous substance; it is a highly flammable liquid and can give off vapour which can easily be set on fire and when not handled safely has the potential to cause a serious fire and/or explosion.
This means there is always a risk of a fire and/or an explosion if there is a source of ignition nearby, for example a naked flame, an electrical spark or similar. Because of these risks storing petrol safely is covered by legislation; and this applies to you if you store petrol.
What is the law on storing petrol safely?
The Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulations 2014 (PCR) which came into force on 1 October 2014 apply to:
- workplaces that store petrol where petrol is dispensed, i.e. retail and non-retail petrol filling stations; and
- non-workplace premises storing petrol, for example at private homes, or at clubs/associations (or similar).
Petroleum Enforcement Authorities (PEAs) formerly Petroleum Licensing Authorities (PLAs) are responsible for enforcing the Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulations 2014. They also continue to enforce the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) at workplaces covered by PCR. This means that there is no change to the current enforcing arrangements.
The safe storage and use of petrol in workplaces is also covered by the DSEAR.
For further information please view the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Storing petrol safely WebPages or contact the Food and Health and Safety Team on telephone number 01443 425001 or e mail Food.HealthandSafety@rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk