There are several types of oil which businesses store in tanks:
- petrol
- biofuels
- diesel
- vegetable oils
- kerosene
- synthetic oils
- solvents
- biodegradable lubricating or hydraulic oils
- liquid bitumen-based products, such as waterproofing or damp proofing products
- cutting fluids
- insulating oils
- brake fluid
There are many industries where these oils are used, and each must be stored in the correct way to comply with environmental and health and safety regulations. Here is a UK Government guide to the rules covering the storage of oil.
There are different rules for oil tanks stored on agricultural premises.
For water storage systems, thorough and regular cleaning is a key way to prevent contamination and the spread of diseases. Water storage systems at hotels, leisure facilities, and pools are especially under scrutiny.
Why would your tank need cleaning?
1. Build up
Whether you hire a vacuum tanker or own one, you have to keep it clean to be able to use it efficiently. Sludge can build up in your tank and can damage it and make its way into your systems. That can then affect the operation of your machinery, for example.
If sludge is present in your cooler tank, your machines could be at risk of seizing up if the cooling system isn’t working properly. Every hour your machines are out of action is an hour’s cost to your business.
So, regular cleaning is important to ensure your systems are working to their maximum efficiency and are not at risk of breakdown.
If your tank is damaged, you may find that oil, water, or coolant is leaking out into your secondary ‘drip tray’ system and filling it, endangering the land around it. For underground tanks, this could mean oil seeping into the ground.
2. Contamination
If water systems are contaminated, this can lead to serious health problems such as Legionnaire’s Disease, and the potential that you or your staff could be put at risk.
Oil and cooler tank contamination can lead to machines breaking down, which could cost your business dearly.
For oils used in food processes, it is vital that any contaminated product is removed swiftly and does not affect the fresh product which will be stored in the tank.
3. Removal
If you’re looking to remove the tank, you need to ensure it is cleaned efficiently before you do so to ensure the surrounding land isn’t contaminated and that the tank can be transported safely. This task is best performed by an experienced industrial tank cleaning company that can ensure the tank can be loaded with different liquid without contamination.
How do I choose the right company to clean my tank?
- Accreditations – Your company should meet the environmental and health and safety regulations, just like industrial tank cleaning company, and should have the relevant ISO accreditations
- Testimonials – See whether they have good testimonials and feed back from businesses similar to yours
- Cost – Compare the cost and the level of service you’ll receive for your money
- Audit trail – Ensure you will have the correct paperwork to show your tank is being cleaned regularly
