AS1940 Compliance Made Simple: Your Guide to Fuel Storage Standards

When it comes to fuel storage in Australia, compliance with AS1940:2017 – The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids is not just a legal requirement - it’s a blueprint for safer, more efficient operations. Whether you're upgrading your facility or starting fresh, understanding and meeting AS1940 standards is essential for reducing risks, protecting your assets, and ensuring smooth operations.

This guide explains everything you need to know about AS1940 compliance, from infrastructure design to operational protocols. Think of it as your roadmap to achieving technical excellence while safeguarding your bottom line.

Why AS1940 Compliance Matters

AS1940 outlines strict regulations for storing and handling flammable and combustible liquids. Compliance helps businesses:

• Reduce the risk of fines and shutdowns

• Protect workers through superior safety systems

• Minimise environmental impacts

• Optimise operational efficiency while extending equipment life 

• Build trust with regulators, insurers, and customers 

Non-compliance with these standards can lead to costly consequences, both financially and for your reputation. But here’s the good news - meeting AS1940 requirements not only mitigates risks but positions your facility to operate at maximum efficiency.

Framework for Compliance Success

AS1940 focuses on several key areas of fuel storage and handling. Below, we’ll break down its essential pillars - design, fire safety, environmental protection, and operations - so you can create a system that meets every technical requirement.

1. Smart Infrastructure Design

Building AS1940 compliant fuel storage systems requires technical precision, from design to construction. The standard ensures that tanks and infrastructure minimise risks, meet regulatory guidelines, and maximise operational efficiency.

Key Technical Requirements:

• Self-Bunded Tanks: Tanks must include bunding systems capable of secondary containment, meeting updated capacity limits (e.g., 200,000 litres for combustible liquids on mining sites). 

• Safe Fill Levels (SFL): Tanks should not exceed 95% of their total capacity, with automated systems for monitoring fill levels. 

• Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG): Real-time monitoring systems are now mandatory for overfill prevention in larger tanks (over 5,000 litres for flammables, 25,000 litres for combustibles). 

• Separation Distance: Tanks must meet spacing requirements to minimise fire risks, based on AS1940 separation tables.

• Material Specifications: Use corrosion-resistant materials to extend tank lifespan while maintaining compliance. 

Design Advantages:

• Improved safety and reduced likelihood of spills

• Enhanced efficiency through advanced monitoring and design tools

• Longer equipment life, thanks to durable materials

2. Fire Safety Systems

Fire safety is paramount in fuel storage. AS1940 requires robust systems that actively prevent and mitigate fire risks, ensuring that operations comply with stringent safety requirements.

Fire Safety Features:

• Detection Systems: Advanced systems that can proactively identify potential fire hazards. 

• Automated Suppression: Tailored suppression systems for different liquid classifications. 

• Ventilation Requirements: Proper airflow minimises the risk of fume accumulation. 

• Explosion-Proof Equipment: All electrical installations in hazardous zones must meet AS3000 and AS60079 standards.

Required Fire Safety Specifications:

• Fire-Resistant Walls: Facilities may need fire walls with specified integrity ratings depending on the fluid being stored and the proximity of the tank to a building or gathering area.

• Separation Compliance: Implement layouts based on mandatory tank spacing distances. 

• Emergency Preparedness: Include high-level alarms, emergency shutoff systems, and robust response protocols.

3. Environmental Protection

Proper environmental management safeguards against fuel spills and contamination while supporting regulatory compliance. Beyond avoiding fines, these practices can reduce operating costs and maintain ecosystem balance.

AS1940 Environmental Mandates:

• Spill Containment: Use bunds with sufficient capacity to hold at least 110% of the largest tank’s volume. 

• Spill Kit Requirements: Ensure kits contain absorbent pads, booms, and proper disposal bags, stored in weatherproof containers.

Environmental Benefits:

• Protect operational continuity with rapid response procedures for spills or leaks.

• Improve sustainability practices, increasing trust with stakeholders and regulatory authorities.

• Simplify remediation efforts by proactively prioritising leak prevention.

4. Operational Procedures

Well-trained personnel and precise operations are critical components of AS1940 compliance. It’s not enough to have the right equipment - you also need the right procedures.

Essential Operator Practices:

• Training Programs: Provide role-specific training to teach safe fuel handling and emergency response. 

• Standardised Procedures: Implement documented protocols for daily operations, spill management, and inspection processes. 

• Regular Audits: Perform compliance inspections and equipment assessments. 

• Predictive Maintenance: Stay ahead of potential failures with - scheduled servicing.

By ensuring your team is ready and informed, you minimise risks, boost efficiency, and maintain compliance.

Key Updates in AS1940 Standards

The AS1940 standard continues to evolve, incorporating changes that reflect improved safety practices and cutting-edge technology. Recent updates include:

1. Heightened Bund Integrity Requirements: Stronger structural standards ensure spill containment systems can withstand adverse conditions.

2. Enhanced Ventilation and Fire Prevention: Changes account for modern operational demands to reduce ignition sources effectively. 

3. Automatic Tank Gauging and Monitoring Technology: New mandates require facilities to invest in real-time data systems that simplify compliance reporting and early incident detection.

Start Your Compliance Journey Today

Meeting AS1940 standards may seem complex, but the benefits make the effort worthwhile. From protecting your employees and the environment to improving your operation’s reliability and efficiency, compliance transforms fuel storage into a robust asset that supports long-term success.

How GO Industrial Can Help: 

With over 25 years of expertise in fuel storage solutions, GO Industrial specialises in delivering AS1940-compliant systems tailored to Australian conditions. Here's how we simplify compliance for your facility:

• Comprehensive Assessments: Identify gaps in your current setup and develop tailored solutions. 

• Customised Solutions: We work closely with our customers to ensure that all solutions deployed are compliant with AS1940 and other required Australian standards.

• Ongoing Support: Ensure lasting compliance with our scheduled maintenance and regular auditing services. 

Next Steps for Complete Compliance: 

1. Schedule an Assessment: Our team will evaluate your facility’s compliance with AS1940 technical requirements, including tank integrity, environmental systems, and fire-safety measures. 

2. Review Current Processes: Update procedures and staff training to meet new standards. 

3. Upgrade Your Infrastructure: With expert guidance, enhance your systems for long-term operational efficiency.

Contact our technical compliance experts today:

• Phone: 07 3204 2240

• Email: sales@goind.com.au

Achieve peace of mind knowing your facility meets every AS1940 standard while positioning yourself for future operational success!