Bunded Storage: Legal Requirements and 110% Bunding Rules Explained

Complying with environmental regulations when storing hazardous substances protects the environment and avoids hefty fines. Bunded storage provides a secondary containment system that prevents harmful spills from leaking into the ground or watercourses. In this blog, we’ll explore bunded storage, its legal requirements in the UK, the 110% bunding rule, and how spill control equipment from Hazchem Safety can support your organisation.

 

What is bunded storage?

Bunded storage is a containment system designed to prevent hazardous liquids from escaping into the environment. Typically, this involves a bund—a secondary barrier or structure surrounding a primary storage container. Bunds can be integrated into the container design (as with bunded tanks) or constructed as separate enclosures around tanks, barrels, or IBCs.

The primary purpose of bunding is to catch and contain any leaks, overflows, or spills, ensuring that hazardous substances do not contaminate the surrounding area.

 

Legal requirements for bunded storage in the UK

The UK has stringent regulations concerning the storage of hazardous substances, largely governed by environmental legislation such as:

• The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001
• The Environmental Protection Act 1990
• The Water Resources Act 1991

These laws mandate that businesses handling hazardous substances take proactive measures to prevent spills and leaks, which can include bunded storage.

Key requirements for compliance include:

1. Adequate capacity: The bund must have a sufficient capacity to contain spills. In most cases, this is determined by the 110% rule (explained further below).
2. Impermeability: The bund must be constructed from impermeable materials to prevent any leakage into the soil or groundwater.
3. Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance ensure that the bund remains in good condition and free from cracks or degradation.
4. Drainage and disposal: Bunds should not have open drainage systems, as these can allow hazardous substances to escape. Any liquid collected in the bund must be disposed of safely, in line with waste management regulations.

Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in substantial fines and reputational damage.

 

The 110% bunding rule

One of the most important guidelines for bunded storage in the UK is the 110% bunding rule. This rule stipulates that the bund must have a minimum capacity of:

• 110% of the volume of the largest container stored within it, or
• 25% of the total volume of all containers, whichever is greater.

For example, if you are storing a 1,000-litre tank of oil, the bund must have a minimum capacity of 1,100 litres. This ensures that even in the event of a complete container failure, the bund can contain the spill.

 

What kinds of waste need bunding?

Bunded storage is essential for a wide range of hazardous substances, including:

• Oil and fuels: Diesel, petrol, kerosene, and other hydrocarbons.
• Chemicals: Acids, alkalis, solvents, and pesticides.
• Waste liquids: Contaminated water, sludge, and effluents.
• Hazardous substances in industrial processes: Including those classified under COSHH regulations.

In some industries, even small quantities of hazardous materials must be stored in bunded areas to comply with legal requirements and reduce environmental risk.

 

Spill control options from Hazchem Safety

Bunded storage is a vital element of environmental protection, but accidents and spills can still occur. This is where spill control products and services from Hazchem Safety come into play.

Hazchem Safety offers a comprehensive range of spill control solutions, including:

1. Spill Kits: Designed for rapid response, spill kits include absorbents, pads, and tools to contain and clean up spills efficiently.
2. Absorbents: Available in various forms, including mats, booms, and granular products, absorbents are ideal for soaking up spilled liquids.
3. Drip Trays: For smaller-scale operations, drip trays provide an effective secondary containment option for barrels and smaller containers.
4. Drain Covers and Seals: Hazchem Safety provides robust drain cover solutions to prevent spilled liquids from entering drainage systems.
5. Training and Compliance Advice: We can also provide guidance and training on proper spill response and environmental compliance.

By integrating bunded storage with spill control measures, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of environmental damage and ensure full compliance with UK regulations.

 

Best practices for bunded storage

To ensure effective bunded storage, follow these best practices:

1. Site assessments: Conduct thorough assessments to determine the appropriate bund size and type for your storage needs.
2. Regular inspections: Check for cracks, corrosion, or any signs of wear in bunded areas.
3. Segregation: Store incompatible substances in separate bunds to prevent chemical reactions.
4. Label and monitor: Clearly label containers and monitor liquid levels to prevent overfilling.
5. Emergency preparedness: Ensure spill kits and absorbents are readily available near bunded storage areas.

Bunded storage is a legal and practical necessity for any business handling hazardous substances. By adhering to the 110% bunding rule and other regulatory requirements, organisations can prevent environmental damage, protect their reputation, and avoid financial penalties.

Hazchem Safety is your trusted partner in achieving these goals, offering high-quality bunding solutions and spill control products tailored to your needs. By combining compliant bunded storage with robust spill response measures, you can confidently safeguard your business and the environment. To see our range of Bunded spill units please visit – https://www.hazchemsafety.com/ppe/workplace-protection/storage-units/