HazardousStorage

Yes — under the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations, most fuel storage above certain thresholds must be bunded, meaning the secondary containment holds at least 110% of the tank's capacity. This applies to both domestic heating oil tanks and larger trade fuel stores. Using an integrally bunded tank is the simplest way to stay compliant without building a separate bund wall.

In practice the terms are used interchangeably — a COSHH cabinet is simply a chemical storage cabinet designed to help you meet the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations. They typically feature a sump base to contain spills, adjustable shelving, and ventilation points. The right one for you depends on what you're storing — flammables, corrosives or general chemicals — as construction and lining vary accordingly.

Many of our cabinets are available in outdoor-rated versions, built with weatherproof cladding and lockable doors to withstand the elements while keeping contents secure. This is often preferable to indoor storage for flammables, keeping them away from occupied buildings and ignition sources. Check the specific product spec, as not all cabinets are suitable for permanent outdoor exposure.

As a general rule, containment should hold at least 110% of your largest single container, or 25% of total stored volume if you're storing multiple containers — whichever is greater. This is a widely applied environmental agency guideline rather than a fixed legal figure, so always check current requirements for your specific substance and quantity. Spill pallets, drip trays and bunded cabinets all serve this purpose depending on scale.

For most small trade premises storing a handful of drums or containers, a single or double-door cabinet with two to three shelves is usually sufficient. Think about container height and whether you need to store aerosols or smaller bottles separately from larger drums. It's worth erring slightly larger than you think, as COSHH storage needs tend to grow rather than shrink over time.

Standard cabinets and spill pallets are generally kept in stock and can be delivered on a short lead time. Bunded fuel tanks and larger bespoke containment solutions typically take longer, particularly for non-standard capacities. Get in touch with your requirements and we'll confirm current availability before you order.