Whether your business has forklifts, generators, trucks, or other things with engines, storing diesel fuel on the job site can be a godsend of an idea.
It can take many manhours to go to the gas station, fill up a jerry can with diesel fuel, and then head back to your place of business. Things can be a whole lot easier if you, instead, store diesel on your company’s property.
But allowing for diesel storage at your workplace is one thing. Doing it the right way is another thing entirely. Read on to find out about what you need to keep in mind when it comes to storing diesel on the job site.
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Diesel Storage — Diesel Has a Shelf Life
Equipping your job site with on-site diesel can be a time-saver and a productivity enhancer. But it’s important to know that diesel has a shelf life. If left untreated, diesel can be safely stored for between six months and a year.
After this time period, the quality of the diesel will degrade. You can use fuel stabilizers and biocides to safeguard the quality of the fuel for a longer period.
Ensure Storage Tank Doesn’t Have Any Water
It’s a good idea to get into the habit of checking your diesel storage tanks for signs of water. You can do this once in the fall and once in the spring.
If there are signs of water in your tank, this can be fixed courtesy of pumping the bottom of the tank. You can also add an absorbent agent that will remove the water rather than the fuel.
Schedule Industrial Diesel Delivery
Consider getting your diesel delivered on-site by a company that specializes in providing fuel for long-term diesel storage. See here if you want to learn more about the benefits of getting on-site diesel delivery.
One benefit that is worth underscoring is that you’ll be able to schedule deliveries at intervals that make sense for your business.
Ensure Your Fuel is Clear and Bright
The fuel inside your long-term storage tank should be clear and bright in color. When you add stabilizers, you will be able to ward off oxidation that can jeopardize the quality of the diesel in your tank.
Get Your Fuel Tested
It’s also important that you get the diesel in your tank tested from time to time to ensure that there are no problems. You can often get this done by the same company that delivers your diesel fuel.
Understand Tank-Filling Regulations
You also have to keep in mind regulations regarding filling tanks with diesel. Sure, you won’t have to worry as much if you hire a company to fill your tanks. But it’s still worth at least understanding the applicable regulations.
You can find such regulations in, among other things, the National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA 30 Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code.
Let the Experts Handle Your Diesel Needs
Depending on the needs of your company, you may find that on-site diesel storage makes sense. If you do decide to proceed, consider retaining the services of a company that delivers diesel fuel.
You’ll be able to work out a delivery schedule, get the right grades of diesel for your particular applications, and get the expert insight and advice you need.
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