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Ensuring your bulk fuel storage is fit for purpose is not just about compliance. It is also about having safe, serviceable, and secure fuel on farm readily available when and how you need it.

Recent announcements around the discontinuation of fuel supply to tripod tanks due to safety concerns has highlighted the need for farmers to review how they store their bulk fuel. Aging gravity tank stands, unstable structures and access risks mean tripod tanks are about to become a thing of the past, making way for tanks which are much safer for farmers, their staff and fuel tanker drivers.

There are many different options available, and Ruralco offer approved fuel tank card suppliers who can provide a range of tank configurations and sizes that fit with a variety of farm fuel needs, with tanks ranging in size from 400L to 1,995L. Replacement options include either gravity fed, stand mounted horizontal tanks or on-ground tanks that are operated using a hand pump.

When planning or deciding on replacing or upgrading any fuel tank, it is important to also consider other options such as fuel locking systems, or remote monitoring technology both of which can be installed on new and existing tanks. Ruralco Bulk Fuel Sales Manager Sarah Bennett recommends Levno as a fuel monitoring system. “Levno is a great fuel monitoring system, giving you complete visibility of fuel at all times. Levno offers the ability to set up alerts to come straight to your phone, allowing you to keep track of all fuel withdrawals from your tank. This provides security and real-time data allowing you to monitor your fuel storage levels.”

Sarah says that the recent fuel price increases have seen a growing number of fuel thefts reported from rural properties. “It’s obviously the right time to look at additional security measures and Ruralco has many options to help you keep your fuel safe, whether it be through our own Ruralco stores or our Card suppliers.”

Security lighting is one good deterrent for would-be thieves, as are security cameras and motion detectors. These also have the added bonus of providing good health and safety measures creating great lighting when and where you need it, and camera footage in case of any accidents or near misses.

Other measures worth considering include alarm systems, signage identifying on-farm security measures in place, fencing and good old fashioned watch dogs. A barking dog can be a good deterrent and is also an effective way to alert the household that something is amiss. Staying connected with neighbours and locals to know what is going on in your area and keeping an eye out for each other is valuable in many ways, but especially helpful if there are a spate of thefts in the area or if anyone has spotted unfamiliar vehicles or people in and around your farm.

At Ruralco we have a dedicated Fuel team with Sarah and Ruralco Fuel Sales Manager, Don Joseph, who can offer support and advice for your farming operation. “We can provide farmers with a range of compliant and safe fuel storage options that can help them better monitor and understand their fuel usage. There are also finance and leasing options available through some suppliers, so members can purchase outright, finance over 12 months or lease only. There are a variety of solutions which you can discuss with us.”

The Ruralco Fuel team will also conduct pre-delivery site visits for new customers to ensure the efficient and safe delivery of fuel to your farm, and to discuss any additional needs you might have to ensure your fuel storage is as safe and efficient as possible. To find out more about how Ruralco can help with bulk on-farm fuel and fuel storage, contact your Ruralco Representative on 0800 787 256.