Storing diesel safely and legally is critical for every business, whether you’re running a farm, construction site, transport fleet, or industrial facility. Diesel is classified as a Class C1 combustible liquid, which means it poses significant fire, environmental, and safety risks if not handled correctly.
To manage these risks, there are Australian Standards that set the rules for the design, construction, installation, and maintenance of diesel tanks. Whether you’re considering a new tank or reviewing your current setup, understanding these standards is essential to staying compliant and avoiding costly fines or environmental damage.
In this article, we’ll explain the key standards you need to be aware of, why they matter, and how to ensure your diesel storage meets requirements.
Why Australian Standards Matter
Australian Standards are developed to:
- Protect people and property by reducing fire and explosion risks.
- Prevent environmental contamination from spills and leaks.
- Ensure consistent product quality and safety across the industry.
- Provide a clear compliance framework for businesses and regulators.
Using a tank that doesn’t meet these standards can result in:
- EPA and local council fines.
- Increased insurance premiums or denied claims.
- Costly clean-up bills in the event of a spill.
- Legal liability if an incident occurs.
Key Australian Standards for Diesel Tanks
1. AS 1940 – The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids
This is the primary standard governing how diesel and other fuels are stored and handled in Australia.
What AS 1940 covers:
- Tank installation requirements, including distances from buildings, boundaries, and ignition sources.
- Secondary containment (bunding) rules — bunds must hold at least 110% of the largest tank’s volume.
- Spill control and drainage requirements.
- Fire protection measures, including emergency access and signage.
- Regular inspection and maintenance protocols.
Who it applies to:
All businesses storing diesel — from farms and small workshops to large industrial sites — must comply with AS 1940. It’s the baseline document referenced by regulators and insurance companies.
2. AS/NZS 4766 – Polyethylene Storage Tanks for Water and Chemicals
If you’re using a poly diesel tank, this is the standard that governs its construction.
Key focus areas:
- Design and manufacture of rotationally moulded polyethylene tanks.
- Structural integrity to handle diesel’s chemical properties.
- UV resistance to withstand harsh Australian conditions.
- Testing requirements for quality assurance and durability.
Why it matters:
AS/NZS 4766 ensures that your poly tank won’t warp, crack, or degrade prematurely, reducing the risk of leaks and contamination.
3. AS 1692 – Steel Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids
For steel diesel tanks, AS 1692 sets the rules for safe construction and materials.
It covers:
- Tank design and welding specifications.
- Corrosion protection, including coatings and cathodic systems.
- Pressure testing and quality control during manufacturing.
- Marking and labelling requirements for traceability.
Why it matters:
Steel tanks are common for bulk fuel storage. AS 1692 compliance guarantees they are built to withstand long-term use without structural failure.
4. Additional Standards and Guidelines
Depending on your site and industry, other standards may also apply:
- AS 2809 – Road tank vehicles for dangerous goods.
- AS 4452 – Storage and handling of toxic substances.
- EPA and local council regulations – Each state may have additional rules for diesel storage, bunding, and spill response.
- It’s always best to check with your local environmental authority to confirm specific requirements for your region.
Practical Compliance Checklist
To ensure your diesel tank setup is compliant, consider the following steps:
| Compliance Area |
What to Check |
| Tank Certification |
Verify the tank meets AS 1692 (steel) or AS/NZS 4766 (poly). |
| Secondary Containment |
Bund capacity must be 110% of the largest tank or compliant self-bunded tank. |
| Installation Location |
Clearances meet AS 1940 guidelines for safety and accessibility. |
| Spill Management |
Spill kits, drain systems, and emergency shut-off equipment are in place. |
| Fire Safety |
Fire extinguishers and signage are provided as per AS 1940. |
| Maintenance Records |
Tanks are regularly inspected, and documentation is kept for audits. |
Single-Skin vs. Self-Bunded Compliance
One of the most common questions is whether a single-skin tank is compliant on its own.
-
Single-skin tanks require an external bund wall or spill containment system to meet AS 1940.
-
Self-bunded tanks (double-walled tanks) are designed with a built-in bund, automatically meeting the 110% containment rule without extra infrastructure.
Tip: If you want a plug-and-play solution that simplifies compliance, self-bunded tanks are the most efficient choice for most businesses.
The Role of Certified Suppliers
Purchasing from a reputable supplier is just as important as choosing the right tank. A certified supplier will:
- Provide documentation of compliance with relevant Australian Standards.
- Help you select the correct tank size and type for your application.
- Offer installation guidance and after-sales support.
- Reduce your risk of non-compliance and environmental incidents.
Australian Standards like AS 1940, AS/NZS 4766, and AS 1692 exist to protect your people, property, and the environment.
By ensuring your diesel tanks comply with these standards, you:
- Stay on the right side of the law.
- Reduce operational risks and potential clean-up costs.
- Improve safety for your team and site.
When in doubt, speak to your supplier or local regulator to confirm requirements before installation. Investing in compliance upfront will save you headaches — and money — in the long run.