Fuel tank installation plays a crucial role in keeping industrial and commercial operations running efficiently. Whether it supports generators, heavy equipment, vehicle fleets, or remote sites, a well-installed fuel tank helps ensure a steady, safe, and compliant fuel supply.

But installing a bulk fuel tank involves far more than placing a tank on-site. It requires careful planning, adherence to national standards, and consideration of long-term safety, maintenance, and operational needs.

This article outlines the key factors that must be addressed to ensure your fuel tank installation is both effective and future-proof.

Start with a clear understanding of site requirements

No two installations are the same. Tank size, layout, access needs, and environmental conditions all vary depending on the site and the type of fuel being stored.

Before installation begins, consider:

Tank capacity based on average and peak fuel usage
Above-ground vs below-ground installation suitability
Site conditions, including terrain, drainage, and weather exposure
Proximity to structures, equipment, and vehicle paths
Security requirements, such as fencing, locks, and restricted access

These decisions influence everything from tank selection to footing design and connection layout.

Ensure regulatory compliance

In Australia, fuel storage systems must comply with AS1940: The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids. Local environmental and planning approvals may also be required depending on the installation site.

To maintain compliance:

Use tanks designed and manufactured to Australian Standards
Include spill containment and bunding systems
Install fire protection and emergency shut-off mechanisms
Ensure vents and pipework are configured according to code
Prepare documentation and compliance certificates as required

Non-compliant installations can result in significant delays, fines, and legal risk. Working with an experienced provider helps avoid these outcomes and streamlines the approval process.

Prepare the site for long-term stability

The quality of the base beneath your tank is just as important as the tank itself. A poorly prepared site can lead to uneven weight distribution, structural movement, or water pooling that damages the foundation over time.

Site preparation may include:

Excavation and levelling
Construction of reinforced concrete pads
Drainage channels and diversion systems
Surface coatings to manage fuel spills or runoff
Safe distance from ignition sources or traffic areas

Above-ground tanks should be anchored or stabilised as needed, especially in cyclone-prone regions or on mobile sites.

Select the right fuel delivery and management systems

An effective fuel tank installation is not just about storing fuel. It must support efficient and safe dispensing, monitoring, and refuelling activity. This means planning for:

Pump type, flow rate, and power supply
Hose reels, nozzles, and control valves
Fuel monitoring systems, such as Smartfill or other telemetry options
Fuel filtration to remove water or particulates before use
Access control, including keypads, swipe cards, or remote logs

These systems help track usage, reduce waste, and support both refuelling and compliance reporting.

Factor in maintenance and access

Every fuel tank requires ongoing inspection and servicing. Planning for this from the beginning makes future work safer, easier, and more cost-effective.

Allow for:

Clear access to all fittings and inspection points
Space for service vehicles and equipment
Easy isolation of components for repair
Visibility of fuel gauges and alarms
Drain points for tank cleaning or fuel transfer

If a tank is difficult to service, minor issues may go unnoticed and eventually become serious. Simple design choices early on can make ongoing maintenance much more manageable.

Work with an experienced installation team

Bulk fuel tanks are critical infrastructure. Installation must be carried out by technicians who understand not just the equipment, but also the regulations, logistics, and environmental factors that influence the outcome.

An experienced installer can:

Assist with site assessments and system design
Manage delivery and crane operations for tank placement
Handle plumbing and electrical work to certified standards
Provide documentation, commissioning reports, and operator training
Offer long-term support and servicing as required

At GHASA, we have supported installations across WA, including complex multi-tank systems, fuel farms, and integrated power solutions. Every site comes with its own challenges, but a methodical and compliant approach always delivers better results.

Fuel Tank Experts for WA Projects

A successful fuel tank installation is about more than getting fuel on-site. It is about future-proofing your operations, minimising risk, and ensuring the system remains safe, efficient, and compliant over time.

From mine sites to construction hubs, fuel storage plays a central role in how projects stay on track. Investing in the right installation from day one makes all the difference.

To find out more about professional fuel tank installation across Western Australia, visit
https://ghasa.com.au/bulk-fuel-tank-installations/ or contact GHASA on (08) 9359 1988.