04/03/2025
Everything to do in the event of an oil tank Emergency
Oil tank emergencies can strike when you least expect them, and they come in many forms, from leaks and cracks to issues with pipelines. Whether it’s a fuel spill, a corroding tank, or an unexpected blockage, these situations can pose serious risks to both your property and the environment. In this blog, we’ll walk you through common oil tank emergencies, how to spot the warning signs, and the steps you need to take to manage the situation safely and effectively.
What actually is an oil tank emergency?
There are several situations in which you could find yourself in an oil tank emergency. This can vary from problems with the tank itself to issues further up the line. The following are some examples of what can be considered an oil tank emergency:
- Oil Leaks or Spillages
- Fuel Shortages
- Oil Tank Corrosion
- Cracks or splits on the oil tank
- Blocked or frozen pipelines
- Overflowing tanks
- Contamination
Think you’re experiencing an oil tank emergency? Get in touch today! Call 01638 492243 for oil tank emergencies!
The signs of an oil tank emergency
Aside from the obvious wet patches or oil puddles, and noticeable physical damage to your tank’s exterior or pipelines, sometimes it’s hard to spot the underlying issues that need immediate attention.
If you can smell fumes or oil when you are inside your property or outside, close to where your tank is located, it is likely that there is either physical damage or a spillage taking place.
One sign to watch for to identify an oil tank emergency is a sudden increase in oil consumption. If you are aware of your typical oil usage throughout different times of the year, especially if you have an oil tank gauge to help you monitor it, you should be able to notice if your oil usage has changed. If it is significantly higher than usual, during a specific time period, it’s likely that there is a problem with your oil tank.
Recognise these signs of an oil tank emergency? Contact us now for our emergency services.
Why are oil tank emergencies bad?
Oil tank emergencies can cause more than just inconvenience for you. They also present serious risks to the environment and human health. Oil spills are extremely hazardous to the environment and can contaminate soil, water, vegetation, and wildlife, causing significant environmental damage. Spilled oil can be a fire hazard, especially if there are nearby ignition sources. Damage to a tank’s exterior can also put the entire contents at risk of becoming a hazard.
Oil tank spillages can cause lots of health risks to humans and animals; inhalation of the fumes can be quite toxic, and pollute water or edible plants in your garden, which could make you very unwell. Repairs, cleanups and potential fines surrounding oil tank emergencies can also be costly if you don’t act quickly and effectively.
Experiencing an oil tank leak? Contact a member of our on-call emergency service technicians now.
How to respond to an oil tank emergency
We’ve put together 5 steps to follow in an oil tank emergency to help you manage the situation calmly and effectively. Of course, all emergencies are different, but using these can help minimise the effects of the emergency.
- Safety
Firstly, you need to evacuate the area, ensuring that pets and small children are not near the oil tank. It is also essential to keep any form of ignition, such as sparks or flames, away from the oil tank in case it has leaked. In this situation, it is also worth switching to old clothes and gloves to keep your skin protected from any oil you may come in contact with.
- Report the emergency
Contact your oil tank supplier right away for emergency services. Be prepared to provide key details, such as:
- Your oil tank model and type
- What you think the issue is (e.g, crack, leak, spill)
- The amount of oil lost, if applicable
If the emergency involves a spill, be sure to notify your local council for possible environmental cleanup. Additionally, inform your insurance provider in case you need to file a claim for damages or cleanup costs.
- Contain and clean up
If your oil tank is leaking or overflowing, try to contain the spill. You can use items like old buckets, sawdust, sandbags, or cat litter to absorb the oil and prevent it from spreading further. If there’s a crack or split, rubbing a bar of soap over the area can temporarily seal it.
- Repair and replace
Once you’ve identified the problem, consult a qualified technician to decide whether your oil tank should be repaired or replaced. Scheduling the work as soon as possible will prevent further damage and restore your heating system. A certified OFTEC technician can provide expert guidance on the best course of action.
- Additional considerations
If your oil tank is located underground or in a garden shed, there may be additional factors to consider. Ensure the area has proper ventilation if your tank has leaked. If you don’t currently have oil tank insurance, an emergency situation may prompt you to purchase coverage for future protection.
Concerned About Your Oil Tank? Contact us today for a full inspection(link) and peace of mind!
Our emergency services
In the case of an oil tank emergency, we’re here to help 24/7 with a response time of just 2-3 hours. Our team is ready to assess the condition of your oil storage tank and pipework, whether it’s for a routine inspection or a critical emergency. From repairing cracks and splits to recommending the best solution for preventing future leaks, we’re committed to keeping your property safe.
In the event of a leak, our emergency fuel transfer service will help prevent contamination of the ground or nearby water sources. We also handle the safe removal and disposal of old oil tanks, ensuring compliance with all environmental regulations. See our full list of emergency services.
