UK Spill Containment Regulations
Understanding spill containment regulations is essential for any business handling oils, fuels, chemicals, coolants or hazardous liquids. UK law requires companies to prevent pollution and protect the environment, and failure to comply can lead to fines, enforcement action and operational shutdowns. This guide explains the key regulations and how PVCFAB spill berms help businesses meet their legal obligations.
Why Spill Containment Matters
Spills can cause:
Environmental pollution
Soil and water contamination
Workplace hazards
Costly clean‑ups
Legal penalties
UK regulations focus on prevention, containment and rapid response — all areas where spill berms play a critical role.
Key UK Regulations for Spill Containment
Environmental Protection Act 1990
This act makes businesses legally responsible for preventing pollution. Any spill that enters soil, drains or watercourses can result in prosecution. Companies must have suitable containment systems in place to prevent escape of liquids.
Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations
These regulations apply to any business storing oil in containers over 200 litres. Requirements include:
Secondary containment (bunding)
Protection from leaks and overflows
Suitable materials and construction
Regular inspection and maintenance
Spill berms are commonly used as portable secondary containment for drums, IBCs, machinery and mobile equipment.
Pollution Prevention Guidelines (PPG)
Although no longer updated, PPGs remain widely used by industry and regulators. Relevant guidelines include:
PPG2 – Above‑ground oil storage
PPG26 – Storage and handling of drums and IBCs
PPG22 – Dealing with spills
These guidelines emphasise:
Containment systems
Spill response planning
Preventing liquids from entering drains
Using suitable materials for containment
PVCFAB spill berms support compliance by providing rapid‑deployment containment for vehicles, equipment and storage areas.
Guidance for Pollution Prevention (GPP)
GPPs replaced PPGs and provide updated advice. Relevant documents include:
GPP2 – Above‑ground oil storage
GPP4 – Oil separators
GPP22 – Dealing with spills
These documents reinforce the need for:
Secondary containment
Spill kits
Temporary containment during maintenance
Protection during refuelling or chemical handling
Where Spill Containment Is Required
Spill containment is required in:
Workshops and garages
Transport yards
Factories and industrial sites
Chemical storage areas
Fuel handling zones
Environmental protection zones
Construction sites
Agricultural operations
Any location where liquids could escape into drains or soil must have suitable containment.
How PVCFAB Spill Berms Support Compliance
PVCFAB spill berms are designed to meet UK regulatory expectations by providing:
Secondary containment for oils, fuels and chemicals
Rapid deployment for emergency spills
Protection during refuelling and maintenance
Containment for mobile plant and equipment
Durable, chemical‑resistant PVC construction
Custom sizes for any application
Our hybrid self‑erecting berms offer automatic wall rise, making them ideal for vehicle entry and exit.
Summary
UK spill containment regulations require businesses to prevent pollution and protect the environment. PVCFAB spill berms provide a practical, compliant solution for secondary containment, spill response and environmental protection across a wide range of industries.