Fuel Quality Scheme to allow certification for specific tanks

Federation of Petroleum Suppliers

Two tier service with introduction of DIY sampling kits

As a result of feedback from the fuel distributors, the FPS has tailored its fuel quality accreditation scheme, so that users can choose the level of service and the type of product covered.

The scheme was introduced last year to enable FPS members to safeguard themselves against the potential risk and any consequential claims because of post-delivery contamination. This is achieved by setting standards for fuel testing, cleansing and the prevention of contamination by water, particulates and microbial growth in storage tanks.

As well as specifying the products and respective storage tanks, distributors can also opt for a DIY self-sampling service. Certification is based on a minimum of four samples a year, taken at three monthly or quarterly intervals.

The initial test is undertaken by OTS TankCare – an independent service provider, working in partnership with the FPS. The second and third quarter samples can be undertaken by the tank owners, under guidance from OTS TankCare. All of the test data can be viewed online in a simple trend analysis presentation. Certification follows the final test results which will be taken by OTS TankCare – on behalf of FPS.

Alternatively – if self-sampling is not required, the entire test programme can be conducted by OTS TankCare on behalf of FPS. For costing purposes the service levels will be quoted as Tier 1 for the full service offer and Tier 2 for self- sampling.

“Participants in the scheme will be able to show that their tanks have been certified to current industry best practice levels of quality – thereby guaranteeing fuel standards – this should enable fuel distributors to draw a line under any disputes concerning fuel quality,” says Mark Askew, Chief Executive of oil distribution trade association FPS (Federation of Petroleum Suppliers).

“This should also encourage best practice for tank hygiene to cascade down to the end users, the fleet and plant operators who also have bulk storage facilities.”

Any FPS member who wishes to benefit from the scheme can now visit www.fpsfueltest.co.uk and fill out a short form. They will then receive an e-mail with log-in details in order to obtain a detailed quotation, which they can either accept or use as information to benchmark alternative solutions.