The idea is to revoke all existing legislation and consolidate the provisions to be maintained into one single set of new regulations, therefore modernising and simplifying the current legislative arrangements while maintaining existing standards of safety.
This applies to the storage of petrol at workplaces that dispense petrol, mainly petrol stations, and non-workplace premises such as private homes.
HSE is inviting comments on the proposals until 7 February 2014. It will then make recommendations to ministers based on the findings from the consultation.
The development of the new regulations has been carried out in an open and collaborative way, drawing on a wide range of views from industry, regulators, other government departments and hobbyists.
A key change for petrol filling stations is the proposal to move away from licensing and to introduce a petroleum storage certificate, which will remain valid unless there is a significant change or the site is closed – something which has both industry support and backing from regulators.
Clarification will also be provided on the amounts of petrol that can be stored at home and the types of containers that can be used.
Copyright Press Association 2013