Monday 24 November 2014
Environment Department Response to media enquiry from Guernsey Press:
Guernsey Press Enquiry:
I have a few questions regarding oil-tanks, the type used for home-heating oil. Although not planned in for tomorrow, if you could respond today I would be grateful.
- Have rules regarding the installation of oil tanks been recently changed?
- If so, what are the changes and why have they been changed?
- Can the rules been applied retrospectively to existing installations?
- If so, are home owners expecting to foot the bill for altering their existing arrangements? Why does the department believe it can retrospectively change the rules?
- Is the department aware of oil delivery companies refusing to top up tanks which do not comply with the rules?
- What would its advice be to home owners who find themselves suddenly unable to re-fill their oil tanks, especially with the onset of winter?
- Would the department allow homes to not be able to be heated over the winter?
- What temporary solutions would be acceptable to the department?
Environment Department Response:
The Environment Department can confirm that the Building Regulation requirements and associated guidance in relation to the installation of oil tanks came into force in July 2012 following a full revision of the Statutory Instrument and the introduction of Guernsey Technical Standards. However Guernsey Technical Standard J, 2012 'Heat producing appliances and fuel storage systems' did not change any of the requirements or guidance previously in place for oil storage.
Building Regulations cannot be applied retrospectively. Regulations 5 and 6 define what constitutes controlled works and those requirements that would apply.
The Department is aware of an arrangement that exists between the oil companies and Public Services Department - Guernsey Water. Under the Prevention of Pollution (Guernsey) Law, 1989 retrospective authority is given to enable improvement works to be ordered where a potential pollution risk is identified. Where this risk is deemed likely to occur, the oil companies will refuse to refill the tank.
The Environment Department only becomes involved where the necessary works to rectify a pollution risk are considered to be controlled under the Building Regulations. Oil Tank Replacement work is covered under the Department's competent persons scheme. If an OFTEC registered installer undertakes the work, a simple notification through the OFTEC scheme ensures that there is no delay waiting for a Building Licence and no application fee is payable.
Contact Information:
Andy Mauger, Building Control Manager
Environment Department
Tel: 717200
