Legislation, Compliance and Best Practice


Protecting the Environment and Our Planet

Governments introduce legislation to protect the environment from pollution and to safeguard our health. All companies are responsible for ensuring that oil storage facilities and liquid controls comply with these regulations. There are strict penalties for non-compliance.

The Control of Pollution Oil Storage Regulations

Pollution of watercourses, groundwater, or the sea by oil is a common type of water pollution incident. Many incidents result from leaks and spills from storage facilities, small containers, drums, IBCs, or tanks.

UK-Specific Legislation

  • The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) England Regulations 2001
  • The Water Resources (Control of Pollution) (Oil Storage) Wales Regulations 2016
  • The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Northern Ireland Regulations 2010
  • Water Environment (Controlled Activities) Scotland Regulations 2011 (as amended)

These regulations collectively ensure that oil storage facilities do not pollute the water environment and comply with storage standards.

Requirements of the Regulations

  • Oil containers must be strong enough to avoid leaks or bursts.
  • Bunds must be impermeable and hold at least 110% of the container's capacity.
  • Valves, taps, and equipment must be securely locked when not in use.
  • Drip trays should hold one-quarter of the drum's total capacity.

Enforcement of the Oil Storage Regulations

Enforcement is managed by:

  • Environment Agency (England)
  • Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Scotland)
  • Natural Resources Wales (Wales)
  • Northern Ireland Environment Agency (N. Ireland)

Acts of Legislation

Water Resources Act 1991

Introduced the "Polluter Pays Principle," holding liquid owners responsible for pollution.

Water Industries Act 1991

Makes it an offence to pollute water used for human consumption.

Protection of Groundwater Regulations 1998

Provides a consolidated system for environmental permitting.

The Waste (England & Wales) Regulations 2011

Ensures waste producers manage waste responsibly to prevent harm.

Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002

Aims to reduce risks of explosion and serious injury from dangerous substances.

The Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) Regulations 2015

Prevents and minimises the effects of major industrial accidents involving dangerous substances.

Pollution Prevention Guidelines

These guidelines were produced by the Environment Agency and provided authoritative advice on pollution prevention. Although withdrawn in 2015, revisions are underway to publish new guidance under the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF).