Petrol & Jerry Cans

About Petrol & Jerry Cans

Proper fuel storage and transportation are essential requirements for tradespeople, groundskeepers, and outdoor workers who rely on petrol-powered equipment. Our comprehensive range of petrol and jerry cans provides safe, compliant solutions for storing and dispensing fuel for everything from lawnmowers and chainsaws to generators and mobile plant equipment. Whether you're a landscape gardener maintaining multiple sites, a farmer managing agricultural machinery, or a contractor operating equipment in remote locations, having reliable fuel storage is crucial for maintaining productivity and meeting HSE regulations.

Quality petrol cans are designed to meet stringent UK and European safety standards, incorporating features such as secure closure systems, pressure-relief mechanisms, and flame arrestors to prevent accidents. Available in various capacities from compact 5-litre containers for occasional use to larger 20-litre jerry cans for commercial applications, these storage solutions are manufactured from durable materials including high-density polyethylene and steel. Modern designs prioritise ease of use with ergonomic handles, anti-glug pouring systems, and clear capacity markings, whilst maintaining the robust construction necessary for site work and transportation.

This category encompasses jerry cans for heavy-duty applications, plastic petrol cans offering lightweight portability, and essential accessories including nozzles and pourers that ensure controlled, spill-free dispensing. Choosing approved containers that comply with UK fuel storage regulations not only protects your workforce but also prevents environmental contamination and reduces the risk of fire hazards on site.

Jargon Buster

UN Approved

Containers that have passed United Nations testing standards for safe transportation of hazardous goods. Look for UN certification marks when purchasing fuel storage for professional use.

Flame Arrestor

A safety device built into the spout or opening that prevents external flames from igniting vapours inside the container, significantly reducing fire risk during pouring.

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

A robust, chemically-resistant plastic material commonly used in modern fuel containers. HDPE cans are lighter than metal alternatives whilst offering excellent resistance to corrosion and impact damage.

Anti-Glug System

An integrated venting mechanism that allows air to enter the container as fuel flows out, creating a smooth, controlled pour without the gurgling and splashing associated with basic containers.

Automatic Shut-Off Nozzle

A pourer attachment that stops fuel flow when the receiving tank is full, preventing overfilling and spillage during refuelling operations.

COSHH Compliance

Meeting Control of Substances Hazardous to Health regulations that govern the safe storage, handling, and use of petrol and other flammable liquids in UK workplaces.

Who Uses Petrol & Jerry Cans?

Petrol and jerry cans are essential equipment for a diverse range of professionals and organisations:

• Landscape Gardeners and Groundskeepers - storing fuel for mowers, strimmers, hedge trimmers, and other petrol-powered maintenance equipment
• Farmers and Agricultural Workers - refuelling tractors, quad bikes, and machinery in field locations away from fixed fuel supplies
• Tree Surgeons and Arborists - transporting fuel for chainsaws and wood chippers to multiple job sites
• Construction Site Operatives - supplying generators, compressors, and portable plant equipment on remote sites
• Marine Professionals - carrying fuel for outboard motors and auxiliary equipment on boats and at marinas
• Plant Hire Companies - providing fuel storage solutions as part of equipment rental packages
• Utilities and Infrastructure Teams - maintaining emergency generators and backup power systems
• Motorsport Enthusiasts - transporting fuel to racing circuits and off-road events
• Emergency Services - maintaining fuel supplies for rescue equipment and portable lighting
• DIY Enthusiasts and Homeowners - storing fuel for garden machinery, pressure washers, and domestic generators

How to Choose the Right Petrol & Jerry Cans

Selecting appropriate fuel storage requires careful consideration of your specific requirements and working environment:

Capacity and Size: Determine the fuel volume you typically need to transport or store. Smaller 5-litre cans offer portability for light-duty equipment, whilst 10-litre and 20-litre jerry cans suit commercial applications requiring bulk storage. Consider vehicle storage space and manual handling capabilities when selecting larger capacities.

Material Construction: Choose between metal jerry cans, which provide maximum durability and are traditional for professional use, and plastic petrol cans manufactured from HDPE, which resist corrosion, are lighter to carry, and won't dent. Metal containers are preferable for extreme environments whilst plastic excels for frequent transportation.

Approval Standards: Ensure containers meet UK and European safety standards, including UN approval for hazardous goods transportation. Look for clear markings indicating compliance with BS EN 13094 or equivalent standards, particularly important for commercial fleet and workplace use.

Pouring and Dispensing Features: Consider jerry cans with integrated spouts versus models requiring separate nozzle attachments. Anti-glug systems, trigger-controlled nozzles, and flexible spouts all enhance usability and reduce spillage. Automatic shut-off features are valuable when refuelling multiple machines regularly.

Safety Features: Prioritise containers with pressure-relief valves to prevent dangerous pressure build-up, flame arrestors for ignition protection, and secure closure systems that prevent accidental opening during transportation. Clearly visible capacity markings aid fuel management and prevent overfilling.

Intended Use Environment: Assess whether cans will be transported frequently in vehicles, stored outdoors in varying temperatures, or kept in secure compounds. UV-resistant materials extend lifespan for outdoor storage, whilst stackable designs optimise storage space in vans and workshops.

Popular Accessories

• Flexible Pouring Spouts - extending reach into awkwardly positioned fuel tanks on machinery and equipment
• Automatic Shut-Off Nozzles - preventing overfilling and spillage during unattended refuelling operations
• Trigger Control Nozzles - providing precise flow control when dispensing into small tanks or measuring specific quantities
• Replacement Seals and Caps - maintaining leak-proof performance and extending container lifespan
• Fuel Funnels with Filters - removing debris and contaminants when transferring fuel between containers
• Fuel Stabiliser Additives - preventing degradation during long-term storage of petrol in cans and equipment tanks
• Spill Containment Trays - protecting surfaces and meeting environmental regulations when storing multiple fuel containers
• Storage Cabinets - secure, COSHH-compliant cabinets for safely storing flammable liquids in workshops and compounds
• Absorbent Materials - spill kits and absorbent pads for managing accidental releases during refuelling
• Hazard Warning Labels - clearly identifying containers containing flammable substances in compliance with workplace safety requirements

Safety Information

Petrol is a highly flammable liquid requiring strict safety protocols during storage, transportation, and dispensing. Always use containers specifically designed and approved for petrol storage - never use makeshift vessels or containers intended for other purposes. Store fuel in cool, well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources, electrical equipment, and direct sunlight. Temperature fluctuations cause fuel to expand, so never fill containers beyond 95% capacity to allow for expansion headspace.

The HSE recommends keeping only the minimum quantity of petrol necessary for operational needs. Workplace storage exceeding certain thresholds requires notification to local authorities under the Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulations 2014. Ensure all personnel handling fuel are properly trained in safe procedures and aware of emergency response protocols.

Always refuel equipment in well-ventilated outdoor areas with engines switched off and cooled down. Static electricity can ignite fuel vapours, so ground containers before pouring and avoid wearing synthetic clothing that generates static. Keep fire extinguishers rated for flammable liquid fires (Class B) readily available in areas where fuel is stored or dispensed.

Never smoke or use mobile phones near fuel storage or refuelling areas. Petrol vapours are heavier than air and accumulate in low areas, creating invisible hazards. Clean up spills immediately using appropriate absorbent materials and dispose of contaminated materials according to local waste regulations. In the event of significant spillage or fire, evacuate the area and contact emergency services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size petrol can do I legally need for domestic use?

For domestic purposes, you may store up to 30 litres of petrol in suitable portable containers without notifying authorities. Most homeowners find two 10-litre or three 5-litre approved containers sufficient for garden equipment needs whilst remaining well within legal limits and providing safer handling than single large containers.

Can I transport petrol cans in my vehicle?

Yes, you can transport petrol in approved containers in your vehicle, but ensure cans are properly sealed, secured to prevent movement, and positioned in well-ventilated areas away from passenger compartments. Boot storage with ventilation is preferable. Never exceed the combined 30-litre limit for private vehicle transportation without appropriate licensing and vehicle specifications.

How long can petrol be stored in a jerry can?

Petrol typically remains usable for 6-12 months when stored properly in sealed, approved containers away from temperature extremes. Fuel degrades over time, with volatile compounds evaporating and forming deposits. Using fuel stabiliser additives extends storage life to approximately 2 years. Always label containers with filling dates and use older fuel first to maintain freshness.

What's the difference between plastic and metal petrol cans?

Metal jerry cans offer superior durability, puncture resistance, and traditional reliability for professional environments, though they're heavier and susceptible to denting and corrosion. Plastic HDPE cans are lighter, rust-proof, and transparent or translucent for viewing contents, but may become brittle with age and UV exposure. Both types meet safety standards when properly manufactured and approved for fuel storage.

Do I need special nozzles for different types of equipment?

Whilst basic containers include standard spouts, specialised nozzles significantly improve usability. Long flexible spouts reach recessed fuel caps on ride-on mowers and generators, trigger-control nozzles prevent spillage when filling small two-stroke equipment, and automatic shut-off nozzles are valuable when refuelling multiple machines. Many professionals maintain several nozzle types for different refuelling situations.