Question: What are the restrictions on the amount of petrol I can store at my workplace?

Answer : there are no longer any specific controls over the storage of petrol at workplace sites other than filling stations. However, site operators will need to follow the requirements of DSEAR as petrol is a 'dangerous substance.' But as of 9 December 2002 they no longer require licences to keep petrol and no longer need to comply with the 1929 and 1982 regulations mentioned above about containers.

Question: I carry diesel in my vehicle - what regulations do I have to comply with?

Answer : The limit is a maximum of two suitable metal containers each of a maximum capacity of ten litres and two plastic containers (which have to be of an approved design) each of a maximum capacity of five litres. These limits also apply to any containers kept in a vehicle parked in the garage or on the driveway (but not to the internal fuel tank of the vehicle). Under no circumstances should the petrol containers be stored in the home itself.

Question: Are there any restrictions on the transport of petrol?

Answer : The Carriage of Dangerous Goods and use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2004 (CDG), as amended by The Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment (Amendment) Regulations 2005 require that petrol should be carried in UN approved containers (called Packages), which are properly stowed on the vehicle. The packages should be marked with the "flammable" diamond and with the UN number for petrol (UN 1203). Up to 333 litres may be carried as a "small load" which means that only general training needs to be given to the driver and that the vehicle only needs to carry 1 2kg fire extinguisher. These regulations do not affect purely private carriage.

Any vehicle involved in work activity and carrying more than 333 litres should be fitted with appropriate hazard warning signs and the driver should receive specialised training. The vehicle should carry specific fire extinguishers and a dangerous goods safety adviser should be appointed.