Portable Fuel Tanks

About Portable Fuel Tanks

Portable fuel tanks are essential equipment for tradespeople, mechanics, and agricultural workers who need safe, compliant storage and dispensing of diesel, petrol, and other fuels in workshop or site environments. These robust containers combine secure fuel storage with practical dispensing systems, allowing professionals to refuel vehicles, machinery, and equipment efficiently without the need for permanent fuel installations. From compact drainer tanks for garage work to mobile dispensing units with integrated pumps, portable fuel tanks offer the flexibility to manage fuel exactly where it's needed.

Modern portable fuel tanks are engineered to meet strict UK safety regulations governing the storage and handling of flammable liquids. Built from durable materials including heavy-duty polyethylene and stainless steel, these tanks incorporate features such as spill-proof caps, integrated drip trays, and secure locking mechanisms. Many models include wheeled bases or carrying handles for improved manoeuvrability across workshop floors or construction sites, whilst pump-equipped variants enable controlled, measured dispensing that reduces spillage and waste.

Whether you're operating a mobile mechanic business, managing a fleet of agricultural machinery, or running a workshop that handles regular fuel draining and disposal tasks, investing in quality portable fuel tanks ensures you comply with COSHH regulations whilst maintaining a safe, organised working environment. Our range from Sealey includes specialist options such as air-operated drainers, combi tanks for multiple fuel types, and mobile dispensing stations with integrated filtration systems.

Jargon Buster

Fuel Drainer

A portable tank specifically designed to safely extract and store fuel from vehicle tanks during maintenance or repair work, typically featuring a hand pump or air-operated mechanism for extraction.

Dispensing Pump

An integrated pumping system that transfers fuel from the storage tank to equipment or vehicles, available in manual, electric, or air-operated configurations for controlled fuel delivery.

Combi Tank

A portable fuel tank with separate compartments for storing different fuel types simultaneously, preventing cross-contamination between petrol, diesel, or waste oils.

Bund or Bunded Tank

A double-walled or secondary containment system designed to capture fuel in the event of a leak, meeting HSE requirements for safe fuel storage.

Air-Operated

Equipment powered by compressed air rather than electricity, eliminating spark risk in potentially flammable environments and ideal for workshop use with existing air lines.

COSHH Compliance

Meeting the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations, which govern the safe storage, handling, and disposal of fuels and other hazardous liquids in UK workplaces.

Who Uses Portable Fuel Tanks?

• Vehicle Mechanics and Technicians – for draining fuel tanks during repairs, servicing, or fuel pump replacement work
• Mobile Mechanics – requiring portable fuel management solutions for on-site vehicle servicing
• Agricultural Contractors and Farmers – refuelling tractors, harvesters, and other machinery across large sites
• Construction Site Managers – managing fuel for plant machinery, generators, and equipment on remote locations
• Landscaping and Groundscare Professionals – storing fuel for mowers, strimmers, and other petrol-powered equipment
• Fleet Maintenance Workshops – handling bulk fuel storage and controlled dispensing for commercial vehicle fleets
• Marine Engineers – portable fuel management for boat maintenance and refuelling operations
• Plant Hire Companies – ensuring machinery is fuelled and maintained between rental periods
• MOT Testing Stations – draining contaminated fuel or removing fuel for emissions testing procedures

How to Choose the Right Portable Fuel Tanks

Capacity Requirements: Consider the typical volume of fuel you'll need to store or transfer. Smaller drainer tanks (around 30-80 litres) suit garage work and vehicle servicing, whilst larger mobile dispensing tanks (100-200 litres or more) better serve agricultural or construction site applications where multiple refuelling operations occur daily.

Dispensing Method: Manual pump systems offer simplicity and reliability without requiring power sources, making them ideal for occasional use. Electric pumps provide faster fuel transfer for high-volume operations, whilst air-operated pumps eliminate electrical spark risks, making them the safest choice for enclosed workshop environments with existing compressed air supplies.

Material Construction: Stainless steel tanks offer superior durability, resistance to corrosion, and easy cleaning – particularly important for fuel drainer applications where contaminated fluids are involved. Heavy-duty polyethylene tanks provide a lighter, more cost-effective solution for clean fuel storage and are resistant to impact damage on busy sites.

Mobility Features: Evaluate how frequently you'll need to move the tank. Look for robust wheels with sufficient diameter to navigate uneven workshop floors or outdoor terrain, along with ergonomic handles positioned for comfortable pushing or pulling. Compact designs with balanced weight distribution make transportation and storage considerably easier.

Safety and Compliance: Ensure any portable fuel tank meets relevant UK regulations for flammable liquid storage. Features such as secure locking caps, integrated bunding or drip trays, and flame arrestors demonstrate quality construction. Check that tanks display appropriate hazard labelling and include documentation confirming regulatory compliance for workplace inspections.

Additional Features: Consider practical additions such as sight gauges for monitoring fuel levels, integrated filters to prevent contamination during transfer, quick-release couplings for faster connections, and segmented compartments if you need to store multiple fuel types safely within a single unit.

Popular Accessories

• Fuel Transfer Hoses – reinforced hoses with anti-static properties for safe fuel transfer
• Dispensing Nozzles – automatic shut-off nozzles for controlled, spill-free fuel delivery
• Fuel Filters and Separators – removing water and contaminants from stored fuel
• Hand Transfer Pumps – manual pumps for emergency fuel transfer or backup systems
• Spill Kits – absorbent materials and containment equipment for managing fuel spills
• Lockable Caps and Security Devices – preventing unauthorised access and fuel theft
• Drip Trays and Bunds – secondary containment for catching drips and small spills
• Fuel Measuring Jugs – graduated containers for accurate fuel quantity measurement
• Storage Cabinets – compliant metal cabinets for secure fuel storage when tanks aren't in use
• Warning Signs and Labels – identifying hazardous contents and safety information

Safety Information

Storing and handling fuel involves significant fire and health risks that must be managed through proper equipment and procedures. Always position portable fuel tanks in well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources, heat, and direct sunlight. Ensure your workplace has appropriate fire extinguishers (Class B for flammable liquids) readily accessible near fuel storage areas.

When transferring fuel, eliminate potential ignition sources including mobile phones, smoking materials, and power tools. Use only equipment specifically rated for fuel handling, and ensure proper earthing of metal containers to prevent static discharge. Wear appropriate PPE including chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection during all fuel handling operations.

Comply with HSE guidance on storing flammable liquids by keeping only the minimum quantity needed for daily operations in portable tanks. Larger quantities require proper risk assessment and may need licensed storage facilities. Ensure all staff handling fuel receive adequate training in safe procedures, emergency response, and COSHH requirements.

Regularly inspect portable fuel tanks for damage, leaks, or deterioration of seals and hoses. Never use damaged equipment, and establish a maintenance schedule that includes cleaning, seal replacement, and pump servicing. Maintain spill response equipment nearby and ensure everyone knows emergency procedures should a leak or spill occur.

Dispose of contaminated fuel or waste oils through licensed waste carriers – never pour them into drains or onto the ground. Keep accurate records of fuel quantities stored, transferred, and disposed of, as required by environmental regulations and workplace safety documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What capacity portable fuel tank do I need for my workshop?

For typical garage and mechanic work involving fuel draining from vehicles, a 30-80 litre capacity tank is usually sufficient. If you're regularly refuelling machinery or operating a fleet maintenance facility, consider 100-200 litre mobile dispensing tanks. Remember that HSE guidelines limit quantities of flammable liquids stored in workplaces, so check regulations for your specific situation and ensure you have appropriate risk assessments in place.

Can I store petrol and diesel in the same portable fuel tank?

No, you should never mix different fuel types in a standard tank as this causes contamination and creates safety hazards. If you need to store multiple fuel types, invest in a combi tank with separate, sealed compartments designed specifically for this purpose. These feature distinct fill points, dispensing outlets, and clear labelling to prevent cross-contamination and accidental misfuelling.

Do I need an air-operated or electric fuel pump?

Air-operated pumps are safer for enclosed workshop environments as they eliminate electrical spark risks around flammable vapours, making them the preferred choice if you have compressed air available. Electric pumps offer convenience where compressed air isn't accessible and are suitable for well-ventilated areas or outdoor use. Manual hand pumps remain a reliable, power-free option for occasional use or emergency backup situations.

How do I safely drain fuel from a vehicle tank?

Use a dedicated fuel drainer tank with appropriate pump mechanism. Ensure the vehicle is in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources, with the engine cold. Connect the extraction hose securely to prevent spillage, and pump steadily into the drainer tank. Never attempt to siphon fuel by mouth, and always wear chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection. Properly label any contaminated fuel removed and dispose of it through licensed waste carriers.

What maintenance do portable fuel tanks require?

Regularly inspect tanks for cracks, corrosion, or damage, particularly around seams and weld points. Check all seals, caps, and hoses for deterioration and replace as needed. Clean tanks periodically to remove sediment build-up, and service pumps according to manufacturer recommendations, including filter changes and lubrication. Store tanks in dry, protected locations when not in use, and never leave fuel in tanks for extended periods without use, as this can lead to degradation and contamination.