With the use of heating oil as a home fuel comes the necessity of operating and maintaining fuel tanks. These tanks can be hazardous and must be treated in a manner that is consistent with the potential danger they represent. That is why OFTEC has compliance and industry standards clearly stated so that heating systems can be properly maintained by properly trained heating technicians. What are these compliance and industry standards?
What is OFTEC and What Is It Responsible For?
Phil from oil training course Gastec Training said “OFTEC is the Oil Firing Technical Association, and it was formed in 1991 to improve and regulate standards throughout the heating industry across England and Wales.“ In 2002, OFTEC became a Competent Person’s Scheme, which means that registered technicians are able to self-certify that their work meets industry standards and relevant Building Regulations. They may also be able to carry out work without a Building Control Notice, though this depends on the location and size of the tank that needs work.
What Are the Industry Standards and Compliance Issues?
Because of the nature of oil tanks, it is necessary that all work complies with Building Regulations. This includes all installation work, modification work to existing tanks and any other type of work necessary. OFTEC-registered technicians can certify that their work meets all relevant regulations and can save you time by avoiding the need for another inspection.
What are the types of industry and compliance issues that an OFTEC-registered technician can help you with?
- Tank Capacity
Storage tanks and their capacities are a closely monitored and heavily regulated part of oil heating regulations. Liquid fuel tanks that are over 3500 litresare considered to be commercial tanks and fall under different compliance rules while anything over 2500 litres must be bunded. Operational guide to domestic tank use and maintenance can done by an OFTEC-registered technician.
- Bunding
Bunding is the use of a secondary containment that is meant to operate as a backup in case of a spill or containment emergency. Liquid fuel can be damaging to the environment if it is spilt and tanks over 2500 litres are required to be bunded in the event of a leak. Technicians who are registered with OFTEC can ensure that you are following guidelines with the size and bunding of your tank.
- Location
Where your tank is located will affect whether your tank complies with building regulations or if you need to take extra measures to comply with those regulations. Your tank needs to situated a minimum of 1.8 meters away from eaves, non-fire-rated windows and structures and more. If you cannot comply with this, 30-minute fire barriers must be set in place.
- Installation
Installation of a new tank must be done by a OFTEC registered technician. If you chose to use another non-registered technician, you must get a Building Control Notice and pay for an inspection after the installation is complete.
Navigating Compliance and Standards
Navigating compliance and industry standards is much easier and simpler with an OFTEC-registered technician. They can get everything done right, the first time, without any additional layers of red tape or administrative challenges.