The Bulletin
MAGAZINE - December 2020
APEA (The Association for Petroleum and Explosives Administration)
Inside
Inside 4
Welcome
6
Editorial
8
Business Manager
9
New Members
10
Publications Information
Articles 15
New Dangerous Substances Act 1972 (DSA) Regulations in Ireland
17
The Reality Regarding whether EV Charging can be Installed on the Vast Majority of Typical Petrol Filling Stations in the UK
20
The Secret of Sherwood Forest Oil Production in England during World War II
24
Early Petrol Pump Design and Evolution
32
Detecting Unauthorised ATG Programming Changes - is Someone Making Changes to your ATG Without your Knowledge?
34
Providing Solutions for Safe and Efficient Loading and Unloading of Liquid Products in Hazardous and Explosive areas
37
News
49
Ask The Experts
50
Press Releases
74
Branches
76
Training
Front cover: Very long pump hoses to refuel the boats in Marsaxlokk Harbour Malta Published by the APEA (The Association for Petroleum and Explosives Administration) A company Limited by Guarantee Registered in England No. 2261660.
Opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the Association. The technical content is not an official endorsement by or on behalf of the APEA and are entirely the views of the authors.
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Welcome
Welcome https://www.linkedin.com/company/apea-org and on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/apea_org In regard to other areas of the APEA, our training courses which are provided by the APEA expert trainers, successfully commenced in September 2020 with limited delegate places due to government guidelines on social distancing and safety protocols.
Tom Daly APEA Chairman Welcome to the December issue of The Bulletin. This month’s Bulletin is full of great interesting articles that are relevant to our industry. Please take the time to read through our advertisements as without them, our publication would not be of such quality. As I write this article, we are still experiencing the effects of the Covid 19 pandemic. The APEA has been slowly getting back to a level of normal activities, while working within the parameters of the Covid 19 advice from government. I hope that the New Year will bring positive changes to the APEA and our membership and that with a new momentum we will continue to go from strength to strength. The new norm that has developed as a result of this pandemic for most people is to operate from home, in a virtual online world of meetings, webinars and forums, without face to face contact and the interaction that we have been used to. We have worked to create appropriate social media platforms so that the APEA can use the most up to date methods to communicate the broad scope of work it undertakes to a wider audience and to encourage greater interaction between members and the Association. As a result, we would encourage you to join us on our APEA twitter account with an updated bio and profile images. We have also created an APEA Linkedin company page and invited everyone in the relevant private groupings to follow the APEA through this medium. We can be found on Linkedin at: APEA Business Manager (contact for all APEA Business and Bulletin advertising, design and typesetting) Jane Mardell APEA, PO Box 106 Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 3XT Tel: +44 (0) 345 603 5507 Mobile: +44 (0) 7815 055514 email: admin@apea.org.uk
The APEA is progressing the development of our online training course with Olive Group and we hope to roll out the first course early next year. Details and dates of our various training courses can be found on our website. As an APEA member, there is a great resource available on the APEA website in our technical advice section, along with past articles on various topics of technical interest. In addition, our technical committee continues to provide advice and technical assistance, and answer many and varying queries in relation to all aspects of the service station. Normally at this time of year we would be reporting on the annual APEA Live, conference, exhibition and awards dinner. However, like many other events planned for 2020, we have had to postpone APEA Live until 2021. We are hopeful that we will emerge from this pandemic at some stage next year and the APEA Live event will be even more successful than before. All the APEA branches’ have continued to hold branch meetings, although via an online platform at the moment and they still provide an excellent networking and social opportunity for those working in the industry. In many cases it is a good opportunity to meet up with regulators, manufacturers, suppliers, equipment installers and consultants. It is very important that our branch members make every effort to maintain contact with each other throughout these strange times. I would again encourage all stakeholders to participate with your local APEA branch if not already involved. Details of the contacts for each branch can be found on our website. Finally I would like to wish you all a happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Publications Chairman Andy Kennedy Tel: 01302 346717 Mobile: 07469 212063 email: andykennedy@apea.org.uk Editor Brian Humm
Find us on Linkedin and Twitter 4
APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
Mobile: +44 (0) 7507 478533 email: b.humm@outlook.com
Editorial
Editorial pinch now the office workers are no longer heading into the cities to work; sad times. I try my best but there is only so much coffee I can drink!
Brian Humm Editor Hello and welcome to this brand new edition of the APEA Bulletin. Once again we have put together some very informative and interesting articles, the latest news throughout the world and the latest press releases from far afield. Hopefully all our members will enjoy reading the copy we have produced but I would like everyone to think for a minute, where did all this come from? It’s from members, that’s right. Without the input from members we certainly wouldn’t have the amazing publication that has dropped through your letter box today, and that you are currently enjoying reading. It doesn’t take long to submit anything, just a quick email. I will always help with composition etc. if needed. Also please don’t forget that I have previously offered to write any article for companies if required; that offer still stands. If you feel like you could contribute at all just drop me a line. We are extremely lucky to have members such as Jamie Thompson, a regular contributor and even Honorary member, Mr Bob Renkes, former Executive Vice President of the Petroleum Equipment institute (PEI) from the USA, who has submitted a brilliant article contained within this publication. Please consider this plea for the next editions; we are often short and it becomes a last minute scramble to get enough to go to print. Copy deadline dates can be found on page 12 on the Publications Information page. The mad world of lockdown/non lockdown, mingle/don’t mingle, travel/don’t travel…you get my drift, is still upon us. I have read that one consequence of the lockdown is that people who have been working from home during this time are not returning to work; they are staying on their laptops or home PC’s and carrying on from home. This is all well and good but it will certainly have a devastating effect on the small businesses that rely on office workers. Cafés, coffee outlets, newsagents etc. will be feeling the 6
Another thing to come out of the Covid pandemic is the plethora of video calling/meeting streams that are now available online. I was somewhat familiar with WhatsApp video calling and Skype for individuals, then came Zoom, then Teams now its Meet. Where will it end!? I have discovered that an older laptop doesn’t necessarily enjoy running these types of applications and being somewhat a technophobe I struggle to understand how to rectify errors when they occur, so much so I usually end up using the app on my phone instead; probably a cowards way out but it does the job. Oh for the simpler pre-Covid days of meetings. One day soon perhaps all this will be over and we may get to go back to normality. One thing that has returned for the Association is that training courses are once again being held. There is an article on page 76 regarding our first foray back into the training arena and it is good to be back imparting knowledge and meeting members again, albeit in reduced numbers. Members will be aware of the tough decision that was made earlier this year by APEA Council to postpone APEA Live 2020; a real shame but in hindsight it was the correct decision to make. Work is already underway in planning APEA Live 2021 so watch this space. Having missed out on a year then the next one can only be bigger and better. One hangover from the cancellation is that the Annual General Meeting of the Association, normally held during the live event, is now being undertaken by Zoom video conference on Thursday 19th November 2020 at 10am. You will need to register to attend - easily done, email the APEA Business Manager Jane Mardell at admin@apea.org.uk. Once registered you will be emailed access information and documents for the meeting; it would be nice for more members to attend. This meeting/forum is where the officers of the council are elected, including the Chair. Every member of the Association would have received a nomination form in order to apply for council membership within the last edition of the Bulletin. The period for nominations for this year’s council is closed, as of the 8th October, but there is always next year. If anyone would like any further information then please feel free to contact me. Finally, I would like to thank Jane Mardell for her gentle cajoling near to deadline day and her patience in waiting for me to send copy in for inclusion, until next time…
APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
Business Manager
Business Manager I will be starting work on the 2022 Yearbook in February. Instructions will be sent to members on how to be included with the March Bulletin and sent by email so please make sure your email address is up to date by logging onto your membership record at www.apea.org.uk.
Jane Mardell Business Manager What a strange year this has been. Hope you are all keeping safe and well. Following the horrible sciatica I had earlier in the year and being housebound for around 5 months as it was too painful to walk, I have had an operation on my spine and they removed the offending part pressing on the sciatic nerve. Recovery is going well and I can now sit at my desk instead of working from a laptop on my bed; I am back walking and doing Pilates to strengthen my back. I am convinced years of yoga and Pilates has helped me to be back up and about so quickly. Apparently it will take a year to recover fully but so pleased I was able to have the operation and feel normal again! Sadly due to Covid-19 APEA Live was cancelled this year but plans are in place for running the event and the awards next year. In the meantime the Branches are setting up virtual branch meetings for members; the Eastern Branch is holding the next one in December and you can view the information on page 78. The Bulletin We are always looking for press releases and articles for The Bulletin. If you have anything you think would interest our readers please email it to me at admin@apea.org.uk and I will forward it to the editor Brian Humm to approve.
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The website enables you to update your Yearbook profile at any time of the year so you can keep your contact information up to date live on the website. There will be a deadline date in April of each year when I will use this information for the printed version. Membership Memberships run for 12 months from the date of joining or payment for a renewal. Once the membership has been paid by debit or credit card it will auto renew by card one year later. You will still receive an email one month before expiry notifying you that the payment will be taken on the date of renewal. If you wish to change or cancel your membership before payment is taken you can do so by logging onto your membership record at www.apea.org.uk. If you wish to upgrade your membership from Individual to Corporate membership you can also do this by logging onto your membership record and going to the membership section at ‘My Account’. Electric Vehicle Charging Installations at Filling Stations This publication is now available to purchase from the website in hardcopy or pdf format. Please go to page 12 for more information and the publications page on the website at www.apea.org.uk. Website Banner Advertising You can place your banner on the APEA website. This is £200 plus vat for one year. Please contact me at admin@apea.org.uk if you wish to make a booking. Member’s email addresses Most APEA communication to members is carried out by email except for mailings of The Bulletin and Yearbook. Please ensure that you log on to your membership record to change any contact details.
Bulletin - 2021 Advertising I am currently taking bookings for advertising in the 2021 issues of The Bulletin. All current advertisers have been contacted and invited to renew their bookings. If you wish to secure the best position for your advertisement, please email me as soon as possible, as all bookings are on a first come first served basis. All artwork should be emailed to me by 7th December. More information about advertising can be found on page 12.
New Members There have been 20 new members joining during October, November and December, details on page 9.
2021/2022 Yearbook You should have all received your 2021 Yearbooks in October. Please let me know if you have not received your delivery and I will follow this up.
There is comprehensive contact information on the APEA website too at www.apea.org.uk.
General Assistance If you need any assistance with general or technical matters, please do not hesitate to contact me at admin@apea.org.uk or on 0345 603 5507.
Jane
APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
New Members
New Members (July- Sept) Corporate Membership Daniel Tuley Arcadis
Steven Richardson K C R Ltd
SHEQ Training Ltd Gerry Hynes Jones Oil Ltd
Emma Taylor MPK Garages Ltd
Individual Membership Brian McGloughlin HSFC
Jim Crowley Pump & Tank Technologies Ltd
Andrew Ryrie Tytonical Ltd
Jose Ramirez Spegua
Jon Marinas JMM Management Group, LLC d/b/a JMM Global
Carl Davis Allianz Insurance
Kevin Hollis
Dan Jarvis Luke Hodson Lark Technology Group Ltd Steve Williams M&S Construction West Midlands Ltd
David Browring TELCHAR ELECTRICAL Edel Boles
APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
Jason Michael Pearce
Michael Apter MFG Infrastructure Manager Raniela Rabe Stuart Tomkinson BXE Services Ltd
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Publications Information
Publications Information 4th Edition of the Guidance for Design, Construction, Modification, Maintenance and Decommissioning of Filling Stations - “Blue Book” (Revised 2018) ISBN 978 0 85293 888 1
Price for hard copy APEA Member rate - £75 Non APEA Member rate - £150 Price for pdf version (please note the pdf version is licensed to the purchaser only and cannot be shared or printed) APEA Member rate - £75 Non APEA Member rate - pdf £150 If you wish to purchase the guide please go to the APEA website at www.apea.org.uk and click on the “Publications” page. You can select to pay by credit/debit card. The APEA also publishes the Code of Practice for Ground floor, multi storey and underground car parks. This can be downloaded directly from the APEA website and is available to members at £11.00 and £21.00 to non APEA members.
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APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
Publications Information Electric Vehicle Charging Installations at Filling Stations Price for hard copy APEA Member rate - £32.50 Non APEA Member rate - £50 Price for pdf version (please note the pdf version is licensed to the purchaser only and cannot be shared or printed) APEA Member rate - £32.50 Non APEA Member rate - pdf £50 This Code of Practice is an authoritative guide to all installations of electric vehicle charging equipment. It has been updated in line with recent changes in BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) and reflects some major developments in this area including vehicle to grid, smart integration and inductive charging. As part of the rapid growth and development of the whole electric vehicle charging infrastructure, filling stations are seen as an obvious place to provide charging facilities. However, it is recognised that difficult safety and logistical issues are linked to such installations. When the 4th Edition of the Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation was published, significant technical discussions were still underway about this area to help finalise and clarify the safety issues that needed to be addressed. The work behind these meetings was led by APEA (the Association for Petroleum and Explosives Administration) who represent the major stakeholders in this sector. APEA and the IET are therefore now issuing this joint publication to help provide important guidance in this area. ISBN-13: 978-1-83953-315-0 Publication Year: 2020 Pages: 30
Bulletin Magazine • The Bulletin is published four times a year with a print run of 2200. • Free issue to APEA members (approx 1200 members worldwide) • Has international distribution and readership • Respected source of industry specific news and information • Contains relevant news items and reports from overseas • Individual, Fellow and Retired members receive one copy each and Corporate members receive 5 copies each per quarter. The editor of The Bulletin, Brian Humm, is always on the look out for new material, so if you have something you want to be included, please email it to the APEA office at admin@apea.org.uk and it will be forwarded to Brian for approval. Please email the text in Word format and any images as separate high resolution pdf or jpeg files to admin@apea.org.uk.
We are always pleased to receive contributions from our members and it ensures that The Bulletin remains an interesting and informative read.
Deadline dates for copy and advertising artwork 2020 Issue
Copy deadline
Posting date
March 2021
7th December
12th February
June 2021
22nd March
7th May
Sept 2021
25th June
13th August
Dec 2021
20th September
5th November
Please note the deadline date for the March 2021 issue is early due to Christmas and New Year holidays.
Bulletin Advertising Discounts are available for booking in more than one issue, please contact Jane Mardell at admin@apea.org.uk for more information. Bulletin advertisers that book in 3 or more issues in one year also receive a 50% discount off rates for advertising in the annual Yearbook, see table. If you would like to book advertising in The Bulletin, please email your requirements to admin@apea.org.uk or call the office on 0345 603 5507. Please ensure you send your artwork to admin@apea.org.uk.
Size of advert
Advert in 4 Advert in 1 issues issue (includes 25% disc
Full page (210mmw x 280mmh with 10mm border or with 3mm bleed)
£498.00
£1494.00
½ page (185mmw x 125mmh)
£249.00
£747.00
¼ page (90mmw x 120mmh)
£125.00
£375.00
All rates quoted exclude VAT. 12
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Articles
Articles New Dangerous Substances Act 1972 (DSA) Regulations in Ireland By Michael O’Kane Irish Branch member
Liverpool FC and the APEA Irish Branch Ireland has new DSA Legislation after about 30 years – since the previous legislation was deemed to be not fit for purpose when it was about 10 years old. The old DSA Regulations, SI 311, became the law in 1979 (over 40 years ago) and within 10 years it became clear that it was too prescriptive e.g. when double skin tanks were becoming accepted as the way to go with underground storage of fuels, they were not permitted to be installed without a blockwork bund or a mass concrete bund. Gradually this requirement was ignored and double skin tanks have been installed in pea gravel back-fill without the need for bunds (but were still in breach of SI 311/1979) – a clear case of legislation lagging behind advances in technology if ever there was one!
Around the late 1970’s, self-service became the new modusoperandi on fuel forecourts. This was being adopted hand-in-hand with the rolling out of canopy cover over fuel dispensers. Shop buildings were starting to offer a fuller range of convenience products to customers and the space previously occupied by service bays was being incorporated into the shop footprint. Car servicing/tyre puncture repairs were being abandoned in favour of more extensive retail space. In the following years through the remainder of the 20th century and into the 21st century, new technologies radically altered the way service stations were constructed and operated, but legislation requirements in Ireland remained the same and became irrevocably outdated. Oil companies/site operators/consultants/contractors
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Articles and many local regulators (i.e. Fire Officers) became increasingly frustrated with this state of affairs. From amongst these sections of the retail fuel industry in Ireland a number of like minded individuals, who had joined the APEA, went about setting up an Irish Branch in the early 1990’s with the support of Brian Taylor, Mike Lugg, and Jamie Thompson from the then APEA Council, with the primary purpose of lobbying for the introduction of more relevant DSA legislation. This was the first overseas APEA Branch in a now respected international network. The Irish Branch hit the ground running and very soon became a well-oiled machine confident enough to organise a one-day seminar in 1993, to give a voice to forecourt operators/equipment providers/service suppliers and local regulators. The seminar organising sub-committee managed to persuade the then Government Minister for Energy, Mr. Noel Treacy, T.D., to make the key-note address, fulsomely endorsing the aspirations of the Irish Branch. This seminar was a great success. The lobbying effort towards new DSA legislation was off the ground. The Irish Branch rested on its laurels. Within another 5 years (a relatively short time in Ireland!) the central competent authority for the regulation of dangerous substances (the Health & Safety Authority) set about writing new draft legislation. This new draft Irish legislation was published in June 1999 (coincidently much in line with the 1st edition of the “Blue Book”, published in November 1999) introducing the concepts of Hazard Zones/Risk Assessment in Part 1, running through Part 2. Design/Layout – Part 3. Construction/Equipment – Part 4. Electrics to Part 5. covering Operations (this latter section was notably more in line with the now widely referenced “Red Guide”). The adoption of the new draft DSA legislation never came to pass. The Irish Branch Committee lost momentum until it was resurrected in the mid 2000’s, with a visit by APEA Council members Jamie Thompson and Paul Craven, who exhorted the then active APEA members to reform the Irish Branch. With batteries recharged, the Irish Branch sailed forth again into the fray of pushing for new DSA legislation. The case to be made was ever more pressing. Over the intervening 15 years or so, the rate of technical innovations, applied to the service station forecourt, has been exponential. None of these new technologies were envisaged in the prescriptive regulations set out in SI 311 of 1979. The more widespread application of new technology has included :• Driver controlled fuel deliveries • Double walled plastic pipe (which together with double skin underground fuel tanks allowed for the process of “total containment”) • Fuel leak sensors (integrated into the total containment concept) • Remote gauging systems (replacing dip-rods) • Wet-stock monitoring (replacing hand-written ledgers) • Remote pumping • Preformed tank manhole chambers & under dispenser sumps • Modular fuel dispensers (multi-product with common digital head displays) • Pre-set dispensers; pay-at-pump dispensers; temperature correction on dispensers • Vapour recovery (stage 1b & stage 2) • New fuels • Unmanned sites etc. 16
The reformed Irish Branch has been led by Tom Daly as chairman (also currently APEA Council Chairman) ably supported by a committed Branch committee with 10+ members normally attending Branch meetings and with 50+ members normally attending AGM’s. This represents very significant proportional support out of a total membership of 100+ members. Besides all the above members attending Irish Branch meetings, there was always the “elephant” in the room. This was the question of “what is happening with new DSA legislation?” This “elephant” should be awarded honorary membership of the Irish Branch – if not a special APEA award! Similar to the early energy levels of the original Irish Branch committee, the early efforts at lobbying by the reformed Branch were directed to the relevant government department. These bore fruit again (within about another 5 years!) with department officials commissioning a Consultant’s Report in 2008. This was delivered in 2009 and was welcomed by the Irish Branch as a stepping stone to the much sought after new legislation. The adoption of the new draft DSA legislation never came to pass. This time the APEA Irish Branch did not fold its tent. The push for new DSA legislation by the Branch committee has been relentless over the last 15 years on top of previous aborted efforts of around 25 years ago. With a further input by the same Consultants as before (this time 10 years since their original Report), the new DSA Legislation was published in 2019 and became law on the 1st April 2020. Liverpool players, as champions after 30 years of effort, can’t afford to rest on their laurels after being well defeated in their first match against Manchester City. Like-wise it may be the case that the APEA Irish Branch can’t afford to rest on its laurels (on seeing the new Irish DSA legislation on the statute books) based on its experience with previous false dawns post 1999 & 2009. This time, after nearly 30 years of effort, the APEA Irish Branch should not forget that “elephant”.
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Articles
The Reality Regarding whether EV Charging can be Installed on the Vast Majority of Typical Petrol Filling Stations in the UK By Ray Blake, Technical Manager of the Petrol Retailers Association in collaboration with John Dallimore and Gareth Bourhill Firstly, to define “vast majority of typical filling stations”. What this does not include is petrol filling stations (PFS’s) within car parks or immediately adjacent to supermarkets. Nor does it include motorway service areas or unmanned PFS’s or those which are associated with vehicle sales or repairs. What are included are all the PFS’s which have shops that typically sell coffee, sandwiches, cigarettes, alcohol, sweets, ready meals, newspapers, magazines etc. These amount to around 5,500 of the approximately 8,500 PFS’s in the UK. So easily the “vast majority of typical”. Next, to explain the financial viability of these types of site. Their business model is based upon a fast turnaround of customers.
Typically, a customer will be on a site for between 5 and 12 minutes. During that time, they may have filled their vehicle with petrol or diesel, entered the shop and purchased some of the available goods. It is important that many of the customers do purchase items from the shop because the businesses are not viable based purely on the sale of fuel. Quite simply, they make their money from shop sales, car washes etc. The main beneficiary of the fuel sales is the government who collects around 80p for every litre of fuel sold. The forecourt operator does not reap enough from fuel sales alone to buy, build, maintain and staff the infrastructure required to store and dispense fuel. Therefore, from a business perspective, if EV charging is introduced
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Articles on to one of these PFS’s; unless: • The site has a large area of spare space, where EV charging can be located without affecting the existing business model; or • The EV charging can be completed within the same timeframe as it takes to pump petrol or diesel into a vehicle tank. It will have a detrimental effect on the viability of the site. Assuming that either despite the detrimental effect on the business or because there is enough spare room for EV vehicles to sit being charged for between 30 and 60 minutes; I won’t go into charging rates, battery capacities, range etc. Suffice it to say that less than 30 minutes to provide an acceptable charge is a long way (many years) from being the norm. There are two further considerations for the forecourt operator when deciding whether EV charging is feasible on their site: 1. Do the figures stack up? i.e. will there be a return on the money invested in installing EV chargers on their site? There are several options for getting EV charging facilities onto a PFS. From leasing a part of the site to an EV charging company in return for rent and/or a share of the revenue derived from folk charging their cars, through to paying for the additional power supply to be brought to the site, installing the equipment at the operators’ own expense and taking the risk that there will be a profit. To date from the information gleaned from members of the Petrol
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Retailers Association who have been ‘early adopters’ of EV charging on their sites we have heard of pay back periods for the investment predicted to be of between 10 and 20 years, a business case for which it would be difficult to procure financing. Also, that the cost of bringing an adequate additional supply of electricity to the site varies enormously depending on the capacity of the local electricity network. In large cities it may be possible to feed EV charging from the Low Voltage network in which case the cost would be from a few thousand to tens of thousands of pounds. However, if to get the supply to the site entails feeding from a long distance (perhaps from a substation), the figures quoted are usually in multiples of millions of pounds. Should the site operator be attempting to future proof the business by aiming for the day when Ultra-Fast charging may be normal (150kw upwards)? To enable vehicles with batteries that can accept this level of charge and can receive decent amount of power within a few minutes to provide an acceptable increase in their range. (The route that some of the major Oil Co’s {now beginning to call themselves Energy Providers} are trying to take), then an electrical substation is required to be located on or immediately adjacent to the site and this will definitely incur an eye watering amount of money to achieve. Figures quoted have ranged from £100K to many millions of pounds. Plus, it brings in an additional part of the second consideration --2. Is it possible to install EV charging safely and in compliance with guidance/legislation? Quite often the answer is NO! The reasons being: To reduce the risk of introducing a potential source of ignition
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Articles
into an area where a flammable vapour may be present the hazard zones must be identified and electrical equipment that is not certified for use within those zones must not be located within those areas. Therefore, all equipment related to EV charging including the cable at its full length and the whole of the vehicle being charged must be located outside of the zones. Examples of the zones are – a radius from the maximum reach from a dispenser hose to the nozzle plus 1 metre (usually over 4 metres in total); a 2 metre radius around tank vent pipes; a 4 metre radius from above ground tank fill points; a 4 metre radius around petrol tanker hose connection points; a 2 metre radius around petrol interceptor/separator access chambers. On a typical PFS in the UK this leaves either a very restricted area where EV charging can safely be located or nowhere at all. Then the issue of electrical earthing must be addressed. This is likely to require a risk assessment to be carried out by a specialist to ensure that there is adequate separation between different earthing systems – for example, between the filling station earthing system and the earthing system installed for the EV charger. Above that, if an electrical substation is required, we enter a whole different world of requirements which take an extremely high level of specialist expertise to unravel. From my limited understanding it will require a consultant with specialist software to determine the minimum acceptable separation between the substation earthing system and any buried metalwork connected to the filling station earthing system. This distance could be considerable and make it even more difficult
or impossible to locate a substation on the PFS. There are other less onerous requirements such as the forecourt emergency switch being linked to also deactivate any EV charging equipment on site. All the aforementioned factors have resulted in it not being either feasible or financially viable to install EV charging on many PFS’s in the UK. A well-known expert on the electrical safety of petrol forecourts has been quoted as stating that “the last place you should consider installing EV charging is a petrol forecourt”. For those like me, who have spent decades in the industry this is a common-sense statement. But we are also pragmatic and know that there are both political and business reasons why it is desirable for EV charging to be located alongside where traditional liquid fuels are dispensed. My hope is that on every occasion when EV charging is being considered on a PFS safety is foremost in the mind. On a personal note, when I became involved in the proposal to install hydrogen dispensing on petrol forecourts around 8 years ago, I had my doubts from both the safety and feasibility perspectives. I now believe that for many reasons, not least to achieve the long term targets for decarbonisation on a global scale, that hydrogen is a far better option than lithium ion batteries.
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Articles
The Secret of Sherwood Forest Oil Production in England during World War II By Bob Renkes, Consultant, Tulsa, Oklahoma There had been little domestic petroleum exploration in the United Kingdom since foreign supplies resumed after the World War I. But in the summer of 1942, England’s oil supply lines were being devastated by German air raids and U-boat attacks. It was running out of oil.
Southwell by telling him that he would not expect to take any profit out of the work. After reimbursement of cost and expenses and overhead, the work, he said, would be a contribution to winning the war by Noble Drilling Corporation and the Fain-Porter Company.
Britain’s secretary of petroleum, Geoffrey Lloyd, called an emergency meeting in London of the Oil Control Board with members of the oil industry’s advisory committee in mid-August of 1942. The purpose was to consider the impending crisis in oil. The Admiralty had reported that fuel stocks were two million barrels below normal safety reserves and were sufficient to meet only two months’ requirements. Reserves of approximately five million barrels were normally held in some forty widely scattered storage facilities. But bombing raids by the Luftwaffe had destroyed almost a million barrels in the dock areas. At the same time increased military demands by the armed services further undercut reserves. “Without oil no plane could fly; no tank could move; no ship could sail; no gun could fire”, said historians Guy and Grace Woodward in their 1973 book The Secret of Sherwood Forest.
Noble tapped an assistant superintendent named Eugene Rosser to head up the project. Rosser secretly recruited 43 other roughnecks—all volunteers--from the oil patch in Oklahoma and Texas, bought supplies and equipment (four rigs, three of which survived the journey across the Atlantic), and headed for England. Only after arriving in March of 1943 did they learn the location of Britain’s secret oilfields.
It was at this meeting that a petroleum engineer named Philip Southwell proposed that Britain’s own little-known oilfields in Sherwood Forest, near Eakring and Duke’s Wood, be tapped. Southwell had twenty years experience with the D’Arcy Exploration Company, a subsidiary of the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company, Ltd., the world’s largest oil company. He explained that England’s own oilfields had double value: first, they were inland in a forested area safely beyond the enemy’s submarine attacks, and second, the large mature trees in the area provided great natural camouflage from the Luftwaffe. These oilfields, in other words, had the potential to produce an “unsinkable tanker.” Development of these oilfields had been slow since they were discovered in 1939 and 1940 because the drilling equipment used by D’Arcy consisted of 13 large rigs originally designed for deepdrilling operations at Anglo-Iranian operations in Persia. These drilling outfits with heavy 136-foot derricks were not suitable for the rapid drilling required in the relatively shallow production in Sherwood Forest. Southwell proposed that the proper equipment could be procured in the United States. He was dispatched to America on September 3, 1942, to buy what was needed to quickly develop the oilfields. Southwell found out in Washington that U.S. drilling equipment could not be purchased by foreign corporations or nations. Some other method had to be developed. Southwell eventually wound up in Ardmore, Oklahoma, at the home of oilman Lloyd Noble. Southwell, Noble and representatives of the Fain-Porter Drilling Company of Oklahoma City came up with a plan and negotiated a contract with D’Arcy to send both men and equipment to England. The contract between the oil companies called for 100 new wells to be drilled in one year. During the meeting, Noble surprised 20
The roughnecks were boarded with monks at the Anglican monastery at Kelham Hall. The monastery was being used as the mother house of the Society of the Sacred Mission and as a theological seminary for the education of candidates for the ministry in the Anglican faith. The monastery provided ample space for the men without crowding. The location afforded comparable isolation from any city or town of substantial size, yet it had the advantage of Kelham village which consisted of a dozen or so houses, a post office, and a general store. The area included a fourteenth century parish church and a pub. Upon their arrival, the men were given individual identity cards from the Sheriff of Nottinghamshire. The sudden influx of Americans was rumored to be for making a movie, probably a western. And all the equipment—the rigs, including the mast, fuel, and water tanks, the trucks, and all other equipment—was painted a shade of green that blended into the spring foliage so that none of the oil field equipment could be distinguished from a plane flying at 3,000 feet. Smith D. Turner of the American Embassy staff observed during a visit to Kelham Hall: “The American roughnecks worked hard— twelve hours a day, seven days a week—84 hours a week—with a day off every two to four weeks. And there wasn’t too much to do or many places to go when they do have a day off.” And Turner went on to ponder this question in an article he later wrote about the unlikely combination of the “rogues and robes”, as they had come to be called:”Will the monks succeed in getting the roughnecks to take the vows, or will the roughnecks bring the monks out and help with the job of setting casing on the oil wells?” The Americans were completing and putting on production wells in the Eakring and Duke’s Wood area at the average rate of one well per week. The British crews’ best time for completing a well for production had been five weeks. In most cases about eight weeks were required by the British crews for completing and putting the well on production. This fact, demonstrated in the field, was not lost on their British hosts. Southwell, who was in daily contact with operations in the field, invited Rosser to meet in London with officers, directors and key personnel of the Anglo-
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Articles Iranian Oil Company, Ltd. During the meeting, Rosser outlined the time-savings devices practiced by the American crews to his esteemed audience. As a result, an arrangement was made whereby one British worker was put on the drilling rigs with each of the American crews. In most cases the British were anxious to learn and the American crews proved to be extremely cooperative. After a year, the contract between the Anglo-Iranian Company and the Noble and Fain-Porter companies had been completed and terminated. The Americans boarded the passenger vessel HMS Mauritania on March 3, 1944 to take the boys home. Their return was without fanfare. It is not known if any returned to England to fight on the side of the Allies. Sadly, one American never made it home. In November 1943, Texan Herman Douthit fell from a derrick to his death. Burial was arranged with full military honors in Brookwood Military Cemetery in Surrey. After the war, in accordance with Veterans Administration policy, Douthit’s body, with the remains of other servicemen previously interred in cemeteries throughout Britain, was transferred to the American Military Cemetery and Memorial located near Cambridge. The only American civilian interred in the cemetery is Herman Douthit. The Americans logged 106 completions and 94 producers during the year they were in Britain. Production from the oilfields of the English Midlands had risen during 1943 from 300 barrels per day to a peak production of slightly more than 3,000 U.S. barrels of oil per day. By the end of 1943, Eakring-Duke’s Wood and Formby had sent 2,289,207 U.S. barrels of high grade paraffin base oil to refineries on the west coast and in the south of Scotland. Although the Americans could not know at the time, 1944-45 would add
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Sherwood Forest
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another 1,236,346 to the total of U.S. barrels shipped to refineries, making a total of 3,520,553 U.S. barrels produced and moved to refineries from Great Britain’s own oilfields by the end of 1945. This was a remarkable record that remains an amazing feat under the circumstances of wartime shortages and hardships prevailing in Great Britain during 1943 and the early part of 1944. British Petroleum continued to produce from Duke’s Wood until the field’s depletion in 1965. The total output from the field from 1939-1965 was 47 million barrels. The American roughnecks are remembered with a monument, a statue called the Oil Patch Warrior, which stands to this day at Rufford Abbey Country Park, near Nottingham. The seven-foot bronze oilfield worker, erected in 1991, is depicted at parade rest with a roughneck’s best weapon - a Stillson wrench - instead of a rifle. Ten years after the ceremony in England, the citizens of Ardmore, Oklahoma, came upon the molds in the artist’s foundry. The statue was recast from the original molds and the Oil Patch Warrior’s twin was dedicated in 2001, with representatives from Noble Oil and Fain-Porter joining veterans at the ceremony. Time has taken away almost all on both sides of the Atlantic who struggled to preserve democracy during World War II. But fortunately the book and the two statues survive to remind us about the friendship, survival and cooperation of the people from two proud countries merely separated by an ocean. Oklahoma
Bob Renkes is the former Executive Vice President of the Petroleum Equipment Institute and is an Honorary Member of the APEA. APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Early Petrol Pump Design and Evolution By Jamie Thompson, Chairman on the APEA Technical Committee It is over 100 years ago since the first petrol pumps were designed and an historical look back shows how engineering advances and also marketing changes have had a major influence on what we use today. Hand operated pumps pumping up to liquid measures with a gravity feed to the nozzle were the very early examples which were very evident in the designs that are so different from today’s dispensers. While the very early models such as The Bowser were made in the US it soon became evident that British engineering companies could design and build their own versions and numerous petrol pump manufacturers in the UK developed unique brands. Bowser, along with other American manufacturers, eventually had factories around the world including the UK. The sudden increase in motor cars and lorries that required refuelling meant that many new retail filling stations were constructed and in addition many companies had their own tank and pump installed for filling their own vehicles. The picture top right comes from a 1920’s Bowser sales brochure showing a pump which supplied aircraft at Croydon Airport. The other shows an early filling station in Merseyside. 24
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Articles In addition to selling their pumps they also carried out designs for filling stations and many of their brochures showed how this could be done.
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The early hand operated dispensers design eventually progressed to designs with electric motors and the first safety concerns of having electricity in a hazard area was resolved by using flameproof safety motors approved for operation in mines. Lighting of globes was overcome by having wiring inside a metal conduit installed up to the globe on top of the pump. This was before standards were introduced and in the early days it was up to each petroleum licensing authority to approve the use of a dispenser within their area. The London County Council had a plant section in their petroleum department which dealt with technical issues such as these and they would seek evidence that the motors and electrical equipment had been tested at that time by the mining department of the University of Sheffield. Some of these pumps are still in collections and museums and are a nostalgic reminder of the past in this industry. APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Articles There was also a time when oil companies or their marketing arm tried to identify their brand with a particular design which was produced by the pump manufacturer. Some of these designs were instantly recognised and identified by a brand.
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The Mobil Oil round pump was a very distinctive example and more recently the BP Eclipse dispenser another attempt. In the 1960’s self-service came along and a marketing exercise to educate the public ended up with arrangements on most filling stations that we see today. This was a 1960’s experiment that BP carried out in Birmingham which encorporated a remote pumping pressurised system with pressure lines going across the canopy and no dispensers on the island; the hanging hoses and a mark on the forecourt showed the grade and position for refuelling. These systems are still in use in some parts of the world. APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Articles A more modern example of brand identification using both dispenser designs including canopy supports.
Detecting Unauthorised ATG Programming Changes - is Someone Making Changes to your ATG Without your Knowledge? By Russell Dupuy, Managing Director, Environmental Monitoring Solutions Pty Ltd • Are your ATG access permissions what you think they are? • Has someone made any unauthorised changes to the ATG program? • Are your fuel management processes detecting unauthorised critical ATG program changes? • How would you know if your ATG settings have been compromised? An Automated Tank Gauge (ATG) is a device installed at petrol stations to monitor and measure fuel movements. A probe in the tank automatically sends data to a display installed in an office or room on site, therefore negating the need to manually measure fuel using a dipstick, which is known to be a dirty and dangerous procedure. A great number of Oil Companies invest in ATG systems as they are a proven solution to the once arduous job of manual tank 32
measuring – but they leave it at that. The reality is an ATG is not a set and forget device once initially commissioned. Depending upon the many enabled features that go well beyond simple tank fuel measurement, undetected changes to the ATG program settings can cause major issues, that you may only learn when it’s all too late! Such unauthorised changes to the ATG’s programming can result in physical stock losses such as: overfills, leaks, shutdowns or lack of shutdown when a critical event arises that may cause environmental contamination leading to significant fines. With so many ATG’s, brands and model options available such as Veeder-Root, Franklin, OPW, ProGauge, Hectronic and others, it can be difficult to know what to select, what it will actually do and which one offers the best security against intrusion.
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An audit conducted across seven clients representing about 1,400 retail sites highlighted the majority were using their ATG’s simply as an electronic dip stick! 67% featured incorrect programming parameters and 55% were missing key software enhancements of which client was unaware! Furthermore, one client introduced what they thought to be strong password protection only to learn that 12% of their ATG’s passwords had changed that were not authorised. ATG’s are typically remotely programmed and monitored through a built-in serial port, plug-in serial port, TCP/IP module or a fax/modem. In order to facilitate remote monitoring over the internet, ATG serial interfaces are often mapped to an internetfacing port. This opens doors to potential trouble, especially since serial interfaces are rarely password protected. The other point of concern is that many ATG protocols are freely available on the Internet for hackers to easily download! Recently it was in the news that Hackers attacked at least one internet-connected gas (petrol) station pump monitoring system in the US. An outage of the ATG or a compromised ATG through an attack, whilst not always catastrophic, could cause serious data loss and supply chain problems. For instance, should fuel volume be misrepresented such as lower than the physical reality, the arriving tanker will not be able to fully unload, possibly leading to an overfill or a re-direct to off-load the excess fuel to a nearby site with
capacity, or a haul-back to the depot/terminal. An attacker with programming knowledge who has penetrated the ATG, can easily disable fuel dispensing for pressure systems whilst trading – imagine what a pain that would be for a major retail or highway truck stop at peak hour! Avoid such ATG and fuel management hell Fuelsuite brings together your EPA compliance, fuel inventory, delivery, reconciliation, price and ATG alarms within one Wetstock Management solution. This gives you the tools to effectively manage your leak detection, maintenance and fuel consumption and inventory for both above and below-ground tanks globally. Fuelsuite polls the ATG via various connection methodologies to retrieve data such as: Alarms, Inventory, Leak detection, Deliveries, Diagnostics, Sales transactions, Line pressure, Sensor and Vapour Recovery for the purpose of analytics, presentation and reporting for asset management and performance. Our servers collate the information into Fuelsuite making it available to you in real time – removing the need to visit site and manually collect data, check sensors and monitor wells and fuel tank levels. Fuelsuite is an all-round, remote Wetstock Management system that allows you to regain visibility over your fuel site operations using real-time data.
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Manage as if you were actually on site You control who gets what…and when. Using a cloud-based remote Wetstock Management solution, you can easily schedule various reports such as inventory, delivery, reconciliation and alarms, etc. Our 24/7 support service monitors your critical alarms in the background and escalates (if you choose) to your service contractor to attend and resolve. With Fuelsuite you can compare settings and check your
programming status and security on a daily basis. Whether you operate 25 or 1,000 retail or commercial fuelling facilities, Fuelsuite has your Fuel Risk Management, Fuel Operations and Fuel Asset Management covered. If you’re concerned that your ATG isn’t performing, could have been compromised or may not be the right solution for your fuel site, get in touch with EMS today to find the right solution for you at https://drivingfueliq.com/
Providing Solutions for Safe and Efficient Loading and Unloading of Liquid Products in Hazardous and Explosive areas By Dagmar Hoeckner-Schallmeiner, Managing Director, Security & Electronic Technologies GmbH Security & Electronic Technologies GmbH (SECU-TECH) is a global supplier for systems and solutions for safe and efficient loading/unloading of liquid products and fuel distribution focusing on wireless deadman systems, electronic Overfill Prevention Systems, Cross-Fill-Prevention Systems, SPD and E-Sealing (Theft Control) Systems, Data Management Solutions including Tacking, Mapping, Geo-Fencing, Alarm-Mailing, etc. Mineraloil, Petrochemical and Chemical Companies are well known 34
for being ahead in environmental thinking and focus on comprehensive and sophisticated, as well as technically high quality solutions. That is the reason why more and more are following a strategy of safety and efficiency in the loading and unloading processes and using our wireless Dead-Man systems, Overfill Prevention Systems and Cross-Fill-Prevention Systems and have already implemented such solutions in their loading terminals, tanker-trucks and fuel
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Articles stations. They are already seeing benefits of having control over their loading and unloading processes and complete logistic chain and, together with their outsourced fleets from the hauliers, protecting their workflow against overspills and cross-fills, saving a lot of money and time as well as protecting the environment and their own brand reputation. The different systems on petrol-stations, tanker-trucks and loading terminals can be adapted to customer and local requirements. Wireless DEAD MAN Controls The use of deadman devices when loading and unloading products reliably prevents overfilling or other potential dangers. This increases the safety and performance of tank truck vehicles or other facilities.In addition to the emergency stop and automatic stop possibilities the ATEX approved LRC Small/Remote Dead Man System offers the possibility of rotational speed control, fill process interruptions and starting or use of outputs for other purposes. The LRC-Small/Remote is battery operated with an ATEX approved battery-package and the system has a wide and safe radio range. The system has been on the market for 20 years with around 5000 installations worldwide.
Crossfill Prevention, Overfill Prevention, Theft Control, Tracking/Mapping/Geofencing SECU MultiTank is the complete and comprehensive solution for safe and efficient fuel distribution covering automated and electronic Crossfill Prevention, Overfill Prevention, Theft Control with Tracking/Mapping/Geofencing and Alarm Mailing. Next to the importance that product mix into compartments of tanker-trucks and into fuel-stations need to be avoided, the control of the product during transport, to be sure that the exact amount and quality what has being loaded at the depot arrives at the fuel station, becomes more and more important. Combined with a comprehensive data-management information of the complete logistic chain is provided in real-time and location for mineral-oil companies and hauliers.
MultiTank Tanker Truck
Graphic Tracking Together with our UK-Partner STA Technical, Warren Peters, we would be pleased if you contact us and we could work out the optimal solution for the benefit of your company. For more information contact: Security & Electronic Technologies GmbH T +43 (2256) 20177 - 0/M +43 (676) 618 98 67 dh@secu-tech.at www.secu-tech.at
Tracking & Mapping
Dead Man Controls in LPG tanker-truck
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UK News
News EG Group owners in lead position to buy $8.4bn Asda Billionaire owners of international forecourt operator EG Group have stunned the markets by moving into pole position to buy supermarket chain Asda. Mohsin Issa and his brother Zuber are leading the race to acquire British supermarket business Asda, valued at £6.5 billion ($8.4bn), on the back of building an international fuel and convenience empire with Euro Garages Group. It has been reported that the two brothers from Blackburn (UK), and TDR Capital, the Londonbased private equity backer of EG Group, have been selected by Walmart as the frontrunners to take over Asda.
A key part of the operation that has put the Issa brothers and TDR in pole position is the possibility of expanding the supermarket business in their petrol station network. Just a week ago, Asda announced it would be trialling a new convenience store concept at the three EG Group stations. With acquisition after acquisition, EG Group has built an empire since its formation in 2016 and now employs 50,000 people across almost 6,000 sites in the UK, U.S., Europe and Australia.
If the bid backed by the Issa brothers and TDR is successful it will see Asda, which operates more than 600 stores in the UK, return to British hands for the first time since 1999.
U.S. retailing giant Walmart has been looking to offload parts of its British business to focus on defending its position against Amazon and explore other opportunities in more attractive markets like India. In 2019, the UK’s competition watchdog blocked a £7 billion ($9bn) merger between Asda and Sainsbury’s.
Initial reports had private equity firm Apollo Global Management as the leading option to buy Asda.
A growing international player powered by fuel & food With the support of TDR Capital, the Issa brothers have taken the
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UK News petrol station market by storm in the UK and around the world. They are known for their innovative ideas, ambition and smart strategic approach. From a single garage in Bury, bought for £150,000 in 2001, to a £9billion giant operating in 10 international markets. Through a number of major operations over the last three years, EG Group has acquired thousands of stations and convenience stores from Esso in Germany and Italy; Kroger, Certified Oil, Travel Centers of America and Cumberland Farms in the U.S.; and Woolworths in Australia. A key part of their success has been their belief in food-to-go and quality convenience services. Last May, the British business signed a 10-year deal with Oliver’s Real Food, a certified organic fast food chain, to sell its products at petrol stations in Australia. They are expected to open up to 100 Oliver’s Real Food stores. Their focus on the food-to-go market was highlighted earlier this year with the acquisition of the largest KFC franchise in the UK & Ireland. The transaction included the ownership transfer of 146 KFC restaurants and one Pizza Hut Store. With the acquisition, EG Group went to operate more than 1,500 food-to-go retail concessions. The £6.5 billion acquisition of Asda would mean a huge challenge for the two brothers from Blackburn as they enter the supermarket industry. The possibility of implementing their innovative approach to large supermarkets and integrating more convenience stores
into the EG Group petrol station empire are both exciting prospects. News Update: Asda bought by EG Group’s Issa brothers for £6.8bn The offer by the Issa brothers has won the battle to buy Asda from U.S. giant Walmart. Billionaire brothers behind EG Group complete purchase of Asda from Walmart in a £6.8 billion deal, reports Sky News. A consortium of Zuber and Mohsin Issa and private equity firm TDR Capital was in line to take majority stake in British supermarket chain Asda. The supermarket chain will remain headquartered in Leeds and will continue to be led by current chief executive Roger Burnley. Walmart bought Asda in 1999 for £6.7 billion and it will retain a minority stake in the supermarket chain. It now has a network of 600 stores in the UK. A key part of the operation that has put the Issa brothers and TDR in pole position is the possibility of expanding the supermarket business in their petrol station network. Asda recently announced it would be trialling a new convenience store concept at the three EG Group stations. EG Group has built an empire since its formation in 2016 and now employs 50,000 people across almost 6,000 sites in the UK, U.S., Europe and Australia.
Kay Group unveils its tenth petrol station in five years Beighton location elevates the UK-based forecourt specialist network to 21 sites. The Kay Group, a UK-based forecourt specialist, has opened its newest service station in Beighton, Sheffield. This location is Kay Group’s tenth new development in the past five years and elevates to 21 its total network of fuel stations in the United Kingdom. Works on the Beighton service station began in January 2020. After postponing the original June opening date due to lockdown, the new site will open its doors to serve the nearby areas of Swallowsnest, Aston Aughton and commuting traffic in and out of Sheffield. The Beighton site features a new Subway in-house partner, a Starbucks Drive-Thru, Greggs standalone outlet and a themed restaurant, and a pub on the site. “It’s a fantastic location in a high-traffic area, so we look forward to serving local residents, commuters and visitors to the area with a range of products, services and rest facilities from us and our fellow retailers,” said Ken Kay, owner and CEO of the Kay Group. Kay Group employs over 240 members of staff and currently serves 200,000 customers a week. 38
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UK News
Diesel spill after train derails catching fire in Wales A freight train carrying diesel derailed and burst into flames, with fuel spilling into a nearby river. About 300 people were evacuated from their homes in Llangennech, near Llanelli in Carmarthenshire, during the "major incident". Natural Resources Wales said it was not safe to try and contain a diesel spill which had gone into the River Loughor. A driver and engineer, onboard the train, were not injured and are being supported, owners DB Cargo UK stated. Dyfed-Powys Police said the driver had noticed something was wrong with the train, which was travelling from Milford Haven. It then derailed and the fire started. The blaze, was reported at about 23:20 BST and police said it had been declared a "major incident" due to the "initial risk of harm" to people nearby. People living within 800m of the fire described seeing "plumes of smoke" and seeing flames from the tracks, when they were evacuated from their homes. They have since been allowed back. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) said it was carrying out a preliminary examination and gathering evidence. British Transport Police and Natural Resources Wales said their priorities, once they are able to access the site, were the fire itself and making the scene safe, as well as the environmental issues resulting from the spill. Bill Kelly, from Network Rail, said damage to the infrastructure was significant and would be further assessed by teams "when it is safe for us to do so". "In terms of services this will obviously impact the central Wales line... I don't have timescales just yet on when we're likely to get them running again," he added. "We will be able to continue running freight services using diversionary routes." Ioan Williams, from Natural Resources Wales, said "a significant volume of diesel has been spilled...we can confirm there is diesel in the River Loughor itself." Puma Energy confirmed the third party-operated train was carrying its fuel from Milford Haven, in Pembrokeshire, to Theale, near Reading, when three tanks caught fire. "Our immediate priority is to work with the emergency services, Network Rail, environmental agencies and the train operator to ensure public safety is maintained and any possible environmental impacts are mitigated," a spokesman said. Puma Energy has not yet confirmed how much fuel the train was carrying, or how much caught fire. The site of the derailment is close to the Loughor Estuary, which is part of the Carmarthen Bay and Estuaries Special Area of Conservation. Aneurin Cox, duty incident manager for Natural Resources Wales, said it was "not currently safe" for workers to get close enough to try and contain the spill while the fire was burning. "Once it's safe to do so, we will work with our partners to fully assess the environmental impact and advise Network Rail when the clean-up of the site can begin," he said. "We will also be keeping local angling and cockling groups informed of the latest situation." The cockle beds in the Burry Inlet - worked by 35 licensed pickers - have been closed following the diesel spill. Robert Griffiths, secretary of the Burry Inlet Handgatherers Association, said he had been contacted by fisheries officers following a meeting of a number of agencies which monitor the beds. Mr Griffiths said the extent of any diesel pollution was still being assessed and it was hoped the closure would last only a few days. 40
Louise Perkins, who lives close to the railway line, said she grabbed some stuff and rushed from her home with her children, aged seven, 12 and 19, in the middle of the night. The 38-year-old was up late watching TV when she heard an enormous bang: "There was this massive fire and black smoke. "As we left it was just fire you could see like balls of it puffing up, and the smell... the smell of diesel. It was just everywhere, and there were just black, black clouds of smoke in the air." Ms Perkins said she was "quite worried" when police explained "it could explode". "At that point my children were up and they got really distressed," she said. Her 19-year-old son went to his friend's house while her two younger children went to their grandmother's. "They were worried - 'oh, what if our house catches fire, what about all the stuff?'" she explained. "I told them not to panic. But my youngest was really upset, she was just heartbroken, she was crying." Councillor Gwyneth Thomas, a former A&E nurse, was at the scene to offer help if needed and said how "hugely impressed" she was by "how calm" the emergency service personnel were. "Some carried young children and others took their dogs with them," she recalled. "It's very fortunate that the accident didn't happen closer to Llangennech [railway] station where there are more homes, and evacuation of residents would have been more difficult." Sandra Thomas has lived on Pontarddulais Road since 1972 and said nothing like this had ever happened before and the fire went up "like a bomb". "I was terrified - I'm shaking all over," she said, adding police knocked on her door while she was watching TV in bed. She was sent to the community centre but was allowed to return home. Ms Thomas became more concerned however when she looked out of her window at 08:00 to see a large black plume of smoke. "I don't feel 100% safe in case it sparks off again and the rest of the tankers go up," she added. Speaking at a press conference just before midday, Supt Andy Morgan, of BTP, said: "While this is an ongoing incident that may go on for some time, we are hugely thankful that no-one has been injured or anything more serious than that has happened here." When the blaze broke out, 14 pumps, a foam tender and specialist hazardous material officers were sent to the scene, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service group manager Richard Felton said. The three tankers that caught fire were being monitored and cooled, he added. Network Rail has not yet been given permission to clear the site, according to Wales and Borders route director, but his teams are "ready and on standby". "Our main priority will be to ensure there is a minimal environmental impact," Mr Kelly added. Supt Ross Evans, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: "The evacuation no doubt caused a significant amount of disruption for those evacuated in the middle of the night and I would like to personally thank residents for their response, as well as our frontline officers who swiftly moved hundreds of residents out of their homes," he added. Those evacuated had been asked to meet at Bryn School and Llangennech Community Centre, police added.
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UK News
Covid 19 affecting many aspects of filling station life Two in five motorists are concerned about catching coronavirus from petrol pumps once lockdown lifted - but could it happen?
extra precautions when filling up cars with almost half of drivers claiming they'll wear gloves at fuel station forecourts.
• New poll found that 41% are worried about petrol pumps spreading the virus
For many people around Britain, not going out in cars for weeks on end has left no need to head to a petrol station to refuel. With road traffic volumes dropping by around 60 per cent until this week, a lack of demand for petrol and diesel has put many independent fuel retailers - especially smaller filling stations in rural areas - at risk of closure.
• This increases to 48% of drivers who are deemed at high-risk of Covid-19 • Public Health England has spoken out on the risk of contracting the virus from fuel station pumps • Concerns come as some 100 small fuel stations have been closed due to lack of sales - and another 900 are at risk, according to industry body
Some 100 have already been shut and another 900 are at risk, according to the Petrol Retailers Association. That said, there are an estimated 7.1million key workers around the UK, who have been reliant on fuel stations to remain open during the last two months.
A huge 69 per cent of drivers polled by insurer Admiral believe that you can catch coronavirus from a petrol pump.
With fuel pumps being handled throughout the pandemic, there are concerns among the motoring community about the safety of return to petrol stations in the aftermath of lockdown. In a poll of 1,400 motorists, 41 per cent said they are scared they will catch coronavirus from a petrol station when they get back behind the wheel more regularly. That figure increases to 48 per cent of those deemed to be most at risk to the deadly virus.
With such a vast number of people feeling unsafe about carrying out regular day to day tasks, it's unsurprising that people are taking
With almost seven in 10 believing that you can catch Covid-19 from a fuel pump, many drivers said they will be taking extra
Two in five drivers are concerned about handling petrol pumps when lockdown lifts - and almost half of those who are most at risk from Covid-19 say they'll be fearful about contracting the virus when filling up their cars.
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UK News precautions to shield themselves by wearing gloves and washing their hands after filling up. Public Health England has stated that petrol pumps are no worse than other surfaces for harbouring the virus, but recommends motorists wear gloves when filling up Are fuel pumps a hotbed for spreading coronavirus? Additional safeguarding while filling up has been recommended by Public Health England, even despite clarifying that motorists are at no greater risk of getting coronavirus from a pump than handling any other hard object. PHE says: 'Petrol pumps are no worse than other surfaces, although we do recommend people use gloves and wash their hands after using them.' Major fuel retailer Shell added: 'The UK Petroleum Industry Association, based on advice from PHE, have confirmed that they are not aware of any evidence that fuel nozzles or other forecourt features such as pay-at-pump keypads are any more or less prone
to the spread of Covid-19 than any other hard surfaces. 'We encourage everyone to follow government guidance by washing hands thoroughly and maintaining social distancing.' As well as providing gloves at filling stations, ensuring restroom facilities are available to customers to wash their hands and displaying signage to keep people two metres apart, retailers are recommending that drivers pay for fuel with a card or contactless payments in the store, rather than cash. But while a quarter of people are scared to drive due to exposure to germs because of the outbreak, 14 per cent of those polled admitted they are still making non-essential journeys. Men came out as the worst offenders with one in five saying they have driven when they shouldn't have, compared to only 8 per cent of women. When it comes to essential key workers, the findings reveal that one in five are scared they will catch coronavirus from their car.
Police stand-off as man pours petrol inside Blackpool bank A man on a mobility scooter was in a stand-off with police after he went into a bank in Blackpool and poured petrol whilst inside. Emergency services were called at about 14:10 BST to the Halifax Bank on Church Street, Blackpool. “There are no members of staff in the bank building and a negotiator was on the scene” Lancashire Police commented. Nearby buildings were evacuated, and people were being asked to avoid the area if possible.
The 80-year-old man on a mobility scooter who sparked the 12hour stand-off with police after going into a bank and pouring petrol inside eventually surrendered. The man gave himself up at 02:00 and was detained under the Mental Health Act, Lancashire Police confirmed. He surrendered after negotiations with officers, the force said. The cordon will remain in place around the bank while investigators attend, and the fire brigade deem it safe to reoccupy the building.
Electric vehicle charging on petrol filling stations The PRA chairman Brian Madderson has warned the transport secretary Grant Shapps that speculation about mandating electric charging on petrol forecourts is not feasible for both safety and financial reasons. The warning came after press reports surrounding the proposal to bring forward the cut-off date for sales of new internal combustion engine and hybrid cars from 2040. Both The Guardian and the Daily Mail suggested that the Department for Transport (DfT) has received a report from the Behavioural Insights Team on how to boost the sales of electric vehicles. According to these articles, one potential idea from the report which resonates with consumers is to mandate petrol filling stations to install charging points. PRA chairman Brian Madderson responded with a strongly worded letter to the transport secretary saying: “If the media reports are to be believed then the Government is simply not listening to those on the ground who will be tasked with implementing the policy and who will bear the consequences of it.” He told Shapps: “Mandating installation of charging points does nothing to overcome the significant safety and financial issues which are currently preventing widespread adoption across the 42
UK’s petrol filling stations…our members will adapt their business to change, but the technical challenges associated with safely installing charging points and the speculative return on investment are prohibitive. Instead, the Government should be looking at ways to address the health and safety concerns and to incentivise petrol filling station operators to invest.” Madderson explained: “It is our belief that a blanket requirement from the government, whereby all petrol filling stations in the UK must provide EV charging facilities, would put many operators in a situation where they could not comply with this requirement and adhere to the guidance accepted as appropriate for ensuring safety on their premises.” He proposed that the DfT should work collaboratively with the industry to: 1. Jointly investigate the regulatory blocks concerning the safe installation of charging points and find ways to unblock them; 2. Understand the issues involved in safely delivering sufficient electricity to a petrol forecourt and work with petrol filling station operators to overcome them; 3. Establish incentives, to include business rate relief, a fund or
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The APEA also supports the safety concerns at mandating that all petrol filling stations should have electric chargers installed.
the APEA/IET Code of Practice Electrical Vehicle Charging Installations at Filling Stations. It is quite evident that not all petrol stations are suitable for the installation of electric chargers and apart from supporting the drive to “green energy” the Government should be made fully aware of public safety concerns.
The special requirements that are necessary to keep the public safe if such installations are installed on petrol stations are covered in
The Code of Practice is available from the APEA website at https://apea.org.uk/pages/publications/apea-publications
grants for petrol filling station operators to support the development of the charging infrastructure.
Asda partners with EG Group in convenience concept Supermarket trials new ‘Asda On the Move’ convenience brand offering fresh food and essentials from three EG Group fuel station forecourts in the Midlands. Asda boosts strategy that will now see the supermarket enter the convenience market through a trial with forecourt operator EG Group and collaborate on an in-store concept with B&Q. Asda is accelerating its in-store partnerships strategy following a shift in customer behaviour brought on by the pandemic, with an increasing number of shoppers looking to complete multiple shopping ‘missions’ on a single trip. “That means offering convenience when they visit our stores by bringing in complementary brands to help them complete more shopping missions in one location, and convenience that makes
our great value products more accessible in local communities,” says Preyash Thakrar, Asda’s Chief Strategy Officer. The B&Q collaboration involves the trial of four ‘shop within a shop’ compact B&Q stores within Asda’s superstores. The first two stores, which will open in Dagenham and Sheffield later this year, will be operated by B&Q and provide customers with access to a large number of products. In addition, customers can also access B&Q’s full range in-store for home delivery or click and collect. As well as expanding its offer in existing stores, Asda is trialling a new convenience proposition, to provide customers with greater access to the supermarket’s products and prices. The new offer branded ‘Asda On the Move’ will initially be trialled at EG Group fuel station forecourts in Ashby, Leamore and Primley in the Midlands.
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UK/International News
Ascona Group stores take on Nisa look Forecourt retailer Ascona Group has unveiled their first Nisa Local store fascia as plans to convert all their sites to the brand get underway. The store in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, is the first in the group’s estate to take on the new signage along with the Evolution store format after the growing retailer signed a supply deal with Nisa Retail earlier this year.
Over the past five months, 32 of the forecourt specialist’s sites have transitioned over to Nisa, with another five to follow. All the Ascona retail sites will be taking on the Nisa Local fascia over the coming months. The stores vary in size from 800 sq.ft. to around 3,000 sq.ft. and are located across large parts of the country including the Midlands, the South-East, Bedfordshire, Gloucestershire and as far north as Cumbria, as well as stores near its head office based in Pembrokeshire.
Total Morocco opens a service station with new mobility concept Total Morocco has announced the opening of the Atlantis motorway service station, located on the Tangier-Rabat axis, near Larache. It is the first Total gas station in Morocco with the new mobility concept. With an investment of 20 million dirhams ($5.4 million) and covering 3,000m2 of land, Atlantis is the 338th station and the 10th motorway of the Total network in Morocco. It’s created 40 jobs, according to a press release. The Atlantis station provides a multi-service offer for motorists with three islands for the distribution of new generation fuels, Total Advanced and Total Excellium, as well as a Total Quartz Auto Service maintenance bay.
The site is also partly powered by solar energy with 60 solar panels installed, which should cover around 30% of the needed energy – this is Total’s 50% station in Morocco with solar energy. It also includes 3 double-walled fuel tanks equipped with state-ofthe-art leak detection, recycling systems for water and used oil at the maintenance bay, and an EV charging station, the 17th Total site to be able to power electric vehicles in Morocco. In addition to a Bonjour café, a McDonald’s restaurant and other services, the new station includes Dar Dyafa, a new concept of authentic Moroccan catering, combining hospitality and craftsmanship, in a new Moroccan dining space.
Socar raises its portfolio SOCAR Petroleum has opened a new fuel station in Salyan region, Azerbaijan, raising the company’s network of fuel stations in the country to 35 locations.
SOCAR station in Salyan features six fuel dispensers serving Super, Premium, AI-92 and diesel brands of gasoline. Eight small vehicles and two large trucks can refuel simultaneously.
The new site is on the Baku-Astara road, a convenient route for drivers travelling from southern regions to Baku, and from Salyan to the southern regions.
SOCAR Petroleum started its operations in Azerbaijan in 2008 under the SOCAR brand. Besides its network of fuel stations, the company operates 11 oil terminal bases.
India rolls out 56 CNG stations across 13 states India’s Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Steel, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, formally inaugurated this week 56 CNG stations spread across 13 States and a Union Territory. With the addition of these stations to India's CNG retail network, the daily filling capacity of this alternative fuel in the country is expected to go up by over 50,000 vehicles. The newly commissioned CNG stations belong to different public and private city gas distribution (CGD) entities. 44
The number of CNG stations in India has gone up from 947 to over 2300 in the last 6 years, according to the Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Steel. Dharmendra Pradhan said that the country is moving towards becoming a gas-based economy and the government is committed to provide infrastructure to facilitate this. Secretary Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Tarun Kapoor, has also called upon the vehicle manufacturers to promote the factory fitted CNG vehicles, and reduce fitting the external kits for the same.
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First H2 refuelling station in Western Australia Haskel Hydrogen Systems, a company supporting global refuelling infrastructure for hydrogen mobility, will supply ATCO and Fortescue Metals Group with refuelling systems for their H2 Refueller project, which focus on the design and construction of the first H2 refuelling station in Western Australia. The station will be located at ATCO’s Jandakot depot and will utilise the green hydrogen produced by their Clean Energy Innovation Hub to power ATCO’s and Fortescue’s hydrogen fuel cell powered vehicles fleet. The Clean Energy Innovation Hub has been generating green
hydrogen for over a year, and with this project will expand into providing green hydrogen for transport, a major next step in Western Australia’s hydrogen infrastructure. The H2 Refueller project recently received backing from the Western Australian Government. Haskel Hydrogen Systems has its own fully operational 700 bar hydrogen refuelling station in the northeast of England and will soon be launching a more compact, plug-and-play hydrogen refuelling station aimed at small fleet customers and demonstration projects to support driving H2 adoption.
Greenergy acquisition of Amber Petroleum Greenergy has agreed to purchase 100% of the shares of Amber Petroleum, an independent fuel distributor and retailer based in the Republic of Ireland.
our existing infrastructure, supply and retail operations. We look forward to welcoming the Amber team to Greenergy,” said Christian Flach, Greenergy CEO.
Amber’s operations include company-owned and dealer-owned forecourts, including a network of 35 sites around the country, along with fuels distribution and home heating depots.
Amber Petroleum has been operating in Ireland for over 40 years. Their existing management team and staff will remain in place after the purchase.
“One of our key strategic objectives is to integrate our existing supply footprint with our expanding retail presence. The acquisition of Amber follows our recent retail investment in 230 retail sites in Canada and will enhance our capabilities in Ireland by building on
“I am confident that Amber will continue to grow its profile as part of the wider Greenergy organisation,” said Liam Fitzgerald, owner and Managing Director of Amber Petroleum.
LPG market continues to grow strong in Turkey The biggest autogas market in the world grew by 2% in 2019 with almost 40% of the national car park converted to autogas. The total volume of LPG in Turkey was 4.1 million tonnes in 2018. Some 3.3 million tonnes were related to autogas, making it the biggest autogas market with South Korea second. Some 4.7 million cars are adapted to use LPG in the country. That’s 38% of the total car park in Turkey. This also has a big impact on society - half a million people are involved in some kind of way in the LPG business. The Turkish autogas market is now easier to enter after the Government decided to scrap a key entry barrier – companies had to own a bottle filling plant to be able to participate in the market. In 2019 that entry barrier was eliminated. Economics explain the huge presence of LPG in Turkey’s market, according to Cem Önce, Secretary General of the Turkish LPG Association. The end customer price for LPG is far lower compared to traditional liquid fuels. Historically, it has been lower-income families that converted their cars to LPG. After an economic boom for autogas in the year 2000 the market has stabilized and enjoyed continuous growth until becoming the first segment in the LPG sector. 46
Conversion prices range from 1,000 to 1,500 dollars depending on the system used. “I expect that each year there will continue to be some growth. In 2019, the market grew by 2.17%. The ratio will probably slow down but there is room for growth,” explains Önce. The LPG sector in Turkey was worth around $3.4 billion in 2018. Autogas overtook bottled LPG over a decade ago as the share of natural gas at homes has increased. It now represents over 60% of the LPG industry. Despite these strong numbers, Önce still sees room for improvement. One hurdle they may overcome this year is the prohibition of underground parking for autogas vehicles, a measure that is not used in Europe. The Turkish LPG Association is lobbying to get rid of this limitation and open up more market. Will Turkish companies use their capabilities and knowhow to expand overseas? “Our association includes major players such as Aygaz, SHV Group and Petrol Ofisi which already have links to other countries. The main target for expansion is Asia.” The global autogas market is expected to grow by 2.91 million tonnes during 2020-2024, progressing at a rate of 2% each year, according to the study ‘Global Autogas Market 2020-2024’.
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International News
Bangladesh to expand LPG filling infrastructure Omera Gas links separate deals with three state-owned companies to set up auto gas stations and supply LPG in the country. LPG conversion services will also be provided. Omera Gas One Ltd, a subsidiary of East Coast Group, has established separate partnerships with Meghna, Jauma and Padma oil companies for installing auto gas stations and supplying LPG across Bangladesh. With this move, the companies intend to facilitate the adoption of LPG-powered vehicles in the country. Under the terms of the agreement, Omera Gas One Ltd will supply LPG to the stations of the three companies, as well as converting vehicles into LPG-driven ones, according to a press release. "A lot of consumers hesitate to convert to LPG only doubting the
availability of the fuel. Therefore, Omera Gas One is determined to remove this hesitation altogether by making auto gas available all over the country," said chief executive officer of Omera Gas One Ltd, Tanveer Azam Chowdhury. "These auto gas stations will not only provide uninterrupted LPG for vehicles 24/7 but will also provide LPG conversion services," Tanver added. Last week, Beximco, Bashundhara and Energypac also signed separate deals with these oil companies for the same purpose. The three companies will roll out 1,000 auto gas filling station across Bangladesh.
Ten new hydrogen stations planned in British Columbia The Government of British Columbia has allocated $10m in funding for the construction and operation of ten hydrogen filling stations in the province, as well as three years of support for Hydrogen BC, a new entity of the Canadian Hydrogen Fuel Cell Association (CHFCA). The funding announcement was made by the Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, Bruce Ralston, at the f-cell+HFC 2020 online conference, which brings together international specialists focused on developing hydrogen and fuel cells clean energy solutions. British Columbia already operates the largest hydrogen filling network in Canada, with three public hydrogen stations in operation and three more set to open by the end of 2021. The sites operating are located in Vancouver, Burnaby and North Vancouver,
and the three locations under development are in Saanich, Kelowna and Burnaby. The $10m in funding were released before the fall 2020 announcement of a Hydrogen Strategy for British Columbia, which will set a vision for how the province will work on achieving its clean energy targets by supporting the use of hydrogen. “With ministry support, the CHFCA’s Hydrogen BC branch will engage the private sector and stakeholders, leveraging the additional $10m funding for new hydrogen fuelling stations. This leads to at least ten additional stations to complement the current seven stations in the province and will ensure that BC stays at the forefront of the vital hydrogen energy and fuel cell sector, even as interest, activity and investment ramps up around the world,” said President and CEO of CHFCA, Mark Kirby.
New multiple-energy truck station to open in Netherlands Total Nederland and PitPoint.LNG have started construction of a new multiple-energy truck station at the new A1 business park in Deventer, the Netherlands. The new LNG station of PitPoint.LNG, planned to be operational December 2020, will be the first LNG station at a TOTAL station in the Netherlands. Alongside the traditional fuels on offer, this 24/7 multiple-energy station will at first be equipped with two LNG-pumps allowing trucks to fill up at the same time. The site will also feature extra cold LNG especially for Volvo trucks, and a digital display with LNG filling instructions in 11 languages. As part of TOTAL’s new multiple-energy station where LNG, diesel and AdBlue will be offered, the design of the station is also leaving room for the potential of dispensing hydrogen in the future. 48
“This project fulfils our objective to grow in low carbon solutions. The transportation sector really needs to become cleaner. We see LNG as the right transition fuel for heavy road transport and it can be used now to start reducing CO2 emissions,” said Director of Mobility & New Energies at Total Nederland N.V., Marja Versleijen. Total Nederland N.V. coordinates the marketing, distribution and sale of fuels and lubricants in the Netherlands. The company currently has around 350 refuelling stations in the Netherlands. PitPoint.LNG B.V. is the joint venture of Total Gas Mobility B.V. and SHV Energy B.V., and it focuses on building and operating LNG infrastructure for the automotive and maritime sectors. PitPoint.LNG currently owns and operates five LNG stations for trucks in the Netherlands and Belgium. PitPoint.LNG is also working to develop new LNG service stations for trucks and ships.
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International News/Ask The Experts
Ask The Experts By Brian Humm, Bulletin Editor I am a new petroleum officer and very much still in the early learning phase of my career. On a petrol station recently I saw what I perceived to be a leak detection system that has a “vial” of crystals attached to it. I asked the site operator what these crystals are for and was told that they are there to remove any vapour that may be in the detection system. Not being sure of this I thought I would ask you guys for future reference if he was correct? APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Ask The Experts/Press Releases Thank you for your question, these crystals are in place on a class I leak detection system normally supplied by Orange County/SGB in the UK. The crystals are in fact in place to dry the air that is being fed into the interstitial space in either the tank or pipework that is being detected, not to remove vapour. This ensures that the air is completely dry and that no moisture can accumulate and form water that could effectively block the interstitial and stop the detection system working. Generally, they are either orange or white in colour when first installed; the collection of moisture makes the crystals go dark and therefore it is time to renew/change them in order for the system to work to their maximum ability.
Press Releases Dover Fueling Solutions invests in UVC technology to help prevent COVID-19 spread Dundee, Scotland– October 5, 2020 – Dover Fueling Solutions (‘DFS’), a part of Dover Corporation that delivers advanced fuel dispensing equipment, electronic systems and payment, fleet systems, automatic tank gauging, and wetstock management, is pleased to announce that it has recently taken delivery of a THOR UVC® disinfecting robot in a bid to help prevent and control the spread of coronavirus infection at its facility in Dundee. The UVC device was delivered on 3rd September and is currently undergoing comprehensive trials to establish the best possible practice to be adopted for site disinfection and sanitisation. The safety, health and wellbeing of its employees is of paramount importance to DFS. When COVID-19 first forced the UK into lockdown, the Scottish government classified DFS Dundee as an essential business and therefore required the facility to reopen and provide support to other essential services and key workers. Since then, DFS has been working hard to implement the strictest health and safety procedures to protect its people. Enhanced safety protocols have been in place since production staff returned to work on 31 March, 2020. Among these ongoing measures are enhanced sanitisation practices, one-way employee foot traffic, regular “fogging” procedures to disinfect the entire site, and strict social distancing rules above and beyond what is recommended by the government. The introduction of UVC robotics takes the company a step further in its efforts to enhance the protection of its employees. UVC robotics takes cleaning and sanitisation at DFS Dundee to the next level. Focusing on autonomous operation, the machine will allow the company to ensure that disinfection processes within the premises are thorough and consistent, and existing manual resources are well allocated. The device is also readily portable, meaning that it can be utilised in all areas of the facility. "THOR UVC® is the very latest high-powered disinfection robot, that can work fully autonomously around public spaces,” said Annette Crowe, Sales and Marketing Director at Finsen Tech, the manufacturer of the device. “It uses shortwave ultraviolet-C light 50
technology, which is proven to kill a large variety of common surface and airborne pathogens, including coronavirus. UVC disinfection is clinically proven, reaches floor to ceiling and is significantly more efficient than manual cleaning. The latest generation robot, acquired by DFS, generates more power than preceding UVC technologies, which is helpful in killing the new strains of viruses.” Mark Husband, EMEA EHS Manager at DFS noted, “We are fully committed to protecting our staff’s health, safety and wellbeing and have invested significantly in keeping the factory COVID-safe over the recent months. To get the highest level of protection from the spread of the virus, we are always looking for ways to work smarter and obtain the most cutting-edge solutions available to automate our sanitisation process. Our extensive research indicated that the technology behind the THOR UVC® robot is at the forefront of the coronavirus fight and widely used in medical settings and test centres . At the moment, we are trialling the device and fine-tuning our internal processes. We are on-track to roll out the facility-wide UVC disinfection in the next couple of weeks.”
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Eurotank welcomes prominent industry expert as non-executive director Eurotank Service Group has appointed industry leader Michael O’Loughlin as Non-Executive Director to help the fuel system specialist on its continued journey of expansion. Bringing a knowledge of the independent sector amassed over 23 years, Michael will provide support to further strengthen Eurotank’s position in the forecourt industry. Michael said: “I’m delighted to be appointed in a non-exec capacity to the Eurotank Service Group. Since moving to the UK in 2008 I have watched with admiration at how Eurotank has developed and strengthened and I’m really looking forward to my new role in supporting the business in whatever area I can.” Michael’s forecourt career began in 1997 when he joined Petrogas in his native Ireland. There he spent 15 years on the board of directors, and from 2008 took the lead on the UK expansion strategy as Managing Director of Applegreen UK, where he successfully built up a portfolio of 80 new forecourts. In 2017 Michael took on the role of Managing Director of acquisitions & business development at Motor Fuel Group, and this year joined grocery retailer, SimplyFresh, as Chief Operating Officer.
Michael O’Loughlin during filming for a Eurotank Service Group promotional video
Eurotank’s Group Managing Director Edward Wheeler said: “We’re very excited to have Michael on board. We hugely value his experience in the independent sector, which is a key market for Eurotank, and we look forward to reaping the benefits of his contribution as we continue our growth strategy.”
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Press Releases
UNITI expo 2021 has been postponed to 17-19 May 2022 Elmar Kühn
The organizers of UNITI expo expect more restrictions next year for the event industry due to the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 – this will inevitably have an impact on the success of the trade fair. With this in mind, the organizers have decided to postpone the fair from the planned date of February 2021. In agreement with Landesmesse Stuttgart, the final date of the leading European trade fair for the retail petroleum and car wash industries has now been set: 17 to 19 May 2022. "The health and safety of all participants is our top priority. A lively trade fair with numerous international trade visitors and versatile networking opportunities has characterized UNITI expo from the very beginning. Key elements such as the conference program, the GenussGARTEN FOODCOURT and the networking party would only be possible with extreme restrictions, or not at all. The new date makes us confident that we can build on the success of the past years," says Elmar Kühn, Managing Director of UNITI-Kraftstoff GmbH. Ben Boroewitsch
With this date, the organizers are giving the participants maximum planning security. With the exception of the date, there are no changes to the general conditions of the fair. Thus, in May 2022, Halls 1, 3 and 5 will be occupied by 40,000m² of exhibition space. "We are very pleased about the unchanged hall plan. This saves our exhibitors having to plan their stands again and enables them to be present at the originally chosen stand location," says Ben Boroewitsch, Managing Director of com-a-tec GmbH and exhibitor contact.The new date for UNITI expo has been met with broad support from the industry. Numerous exhibitors, cooperation partners, and CECOD, the biggest European association for manufacturers of tank technology, have already welcomed the decision and approved the new date for May 2022. "We are happy to have received so much positive feedback shortly after the announcement of the postponement. This shows once again the strong cohesion within the industry and motivates us to work with great commitment on an all-round successful UNITI expo 2022, which after a long corona period will finally bring the global industry together in one place again," emphasizes Ben Boroewitsch. About UNITI expo UNITI expo is the leading European trade fair for the retail petroleum and car wash industries. With its compact three-day format, the biennial trade show is tailored to the needs of its target audience. The exhibition space is divided into four themed areas: Technology, payment & logistics; Car wash & car care; Oil companies & fuel retailers; and Shop & convenience. In 2018, the third edition of UNITI expo gathered 467 exhibitors and 17,000 attendees from 120 countries on an exhibition area of 40,000 m². UNITI expo is organized by UNITI-Kraftstoff GmbH in cooperation with com-a-tec GmbH and WDM management consultancy.
CECOD supports decision to reschedule UNITI Expo for spring 2022 The Committee of the European Manufacturers of Petroleum Measuring and Distributing Equipment (CECOD) has made an official statement in support of the decision to postpone the UNITI Expo trade show until spring 2022, due to the increasing spread of COVID-19. UNITI Expo, since its launch in 2014, has been staged every two years in Stuttgart, Germany, and the next event was due to be held in May of this year. When concern over the 52
spread of COVID-19 was raised at the start of 2020, the show was postponed to February 2021. As new cases of the virus still continue to rise in Europe, the timing of the event has been re-evaluated by the organisers and in the best interests of both visitors and exhibitors, has now been rescheduled for May 2022. The official dates for the show will be
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released at the end of this month. CECOD members represent 30 of the world’s leading manufacturers of petrol filling station equipment, including fuel dispensers, dispenser components, point-of-sale and fuel management systems, payment systems and price signs. The organisation also has members which manufacturer industrial meters and systems for use with fuels, such as road tanker mounted equipment. CECOD, together with the UNITI Expo committee and the German Trade Association for service stations, was instrumental in bringing the first UNITI Expo trade fair to
market in 2014, with its members voting unanimously to support a new European exhibition dedicated to the interests of the international retail fuel and fuel handling sector. Lise-Lotte Nordholm, CECOD Chairman, said in a statement: “This is an important outcome for our members who play a key role in this trade fair. The fight against the coronavirus pandemic is ongoing and the industry as a whole has to be prepared to respond swiftly to all eventualities. The decision taken by UNITI to move the exhibition on to 2022 was taken in the best interests of everyone connected with the show and CECOD fully support this initiative.”
Source North America joins Dover Fueling Solutions’ team of North American Distributors AUSTIN, TEXAS – July 7, 2020 – Dover Fueling Solutions (“DFS”), a part of Dover Corporation that delivers advanced fuel dispensing equipment, electronic systems and payment, fleet systems, automatic tank gauging, and wetstock management, is pleased to welcome Source North America Corporation to its family of exemplary DFS distributors. Since its founding in 1979, Source North America has provided customers with innovative product solutions that include point-ofsale (POS) and fuel management, piping and containment systems,
canopy lighting, storage tanks and equipment, and submersible pumps, as well as trailer delivery logistics, e-commerce and expertise about the fuel industry. Additionally, Source North America offers comprehensive fuel site planning through its SOLUTIONS Design Group. “DFS has shown its dedication to the market segment and innovation with technological advances on multiple fronts,” said Source North America CEO and President Glen Corkill, “and we are extremely excited at the prospect of building and strengthening
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Press Releases a mutually productive long-term relationship with Dover Fueling Solutions.” “With Source North America joining DFS’ excellent network of distributors, retail fueling operators across the country will be ensured access to the full Dover Fueling Solutions portfolio of products,” said Kendra Keller, General Manager and Vice President
of DFS, North America. “We look forward to the new opportunities this relationship brings to further our mission of being a leading provider of advanced customer-focused technologies, services and solutions in the fuel and convenience retail industries.” For more information about DFS’ innovative products and solutions, visit www.doverfuelingsolutions.com. To learn more about Source North America, visit www.sourcena.com.
OPW introduces brand new 21 Series European style fuelling nozzles! Skipton, UK, September 23, 2020 — OPW, a Dover company and a global leader in nozzle design and manufacture for over 125 years, is proud to introduce the all-new 21 Series family of petrol, vapour recovery, diesel, and AdBlue dispensing nozzles. Designed with attractive European styling and refined ergonomic comfort, the 21 Series nozzle is expertly engineered to exceed ATEX and TUV safety standards. “Combining form and function, the new OPW 21 Series nozzle gives you a true quality handshake with your customers, backed by world-renowned OPW quality” said Fred Hess, OPW’s EMEA Sales Director “providing much needed competition in the European nozzle market.” OPW has been Defining What’s Next since they were founded in 1892 at the dawn of the petroleum age, helping to usher in modern transportation with the introduction of the Model 411 fuelling nozzle, an innovation that became the industry standard and changed how vehicles were refuelled around the world. Since that time, automobiles and the fuelling industry have dramatically evolved, and OPW has been a leader in the advancement of fuelling technology. From the 1950 invention and patent of the world’s first automatic shut-off nozzle that made fuelling safe and efficient for attendants, to the 1984 introduction of the first, patented no-pressure, no-flow 11B fuelling nozzle that made self-serve fuelling and pre-pay possible, to the 1991 introduction of the 11VAI, the first and patented inverted coaxial vapor recovery nozzle that helped protect the
OPW 21 Series Nozzle - Orange
OPW 21 Series Nozzle - Red
air that we breathe while making compliance transparent to the consumer, to the 2018 introduction of the 14 Series, the industry’s first third party approved dripless nozzle technology, OPW continues to set the industry standard for a clean and safe fuelling experience. Today, one of the largest and most trusted fuelling nozzle brands in the world Define What’s Next with an all new European style nozzle, the 21 Series. The 21 Series nozzle is already receiving praise for its form and function. “We are very happy with the 21 Series nozzle which gives us and our customers choice, independence and opportunities” said Dimitar Zlatarev, CEO of [OPW distributor] Sisco-M Ltd. Bulgaria’s largest supplier of gas 54
OPW 21 Series Nozzle - Bulgaria
station equipment. “Through SisCo-M Ltd. Bulgaria is one of the first countries to implement the presentation and installation of the new OPW 21 Series nozzles and swivels. Thanks to the new product, there is a competitive nozzle on the market with excellent quality and a new look. Lots of customers have already installed the nozzle and enjoy the full range of OPW 21 Series products. The nozzles come with the well-known exceptional quality of OPW products: top-quality materials, precisely assembled, very durable, precise, clean with no drips and spillage on forecourt, easy to operate, light and modern look, and cost saving.”
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The initial rollout of the 21 Series family is comprised of the following six nozzles: OPW 21A: a conventional non-vapour recovery nozzle with a 25mm diesel spout or 21mm (21AP) unleaded petrol spout
OPW 21H: a high-flow truck stop diesel nozzle with 140 LPM and 32mm spout
OPW 21B: a conventional non-vapour recovery nozzle with no pressure/no flow device for 25mm diesel or 21mm (21BP) unleaded petrol spouts
“The 21 Series nozzle provides a superior fuelling experience, engineered to inspire customer preference,” added Hess. “No matter the grade of gasoline, the type of fuel or where you are in the world, OPW provides solutions to keep fuelling stations operating at peak performance and in perfect compliance. Expert local support also comes as standard.”
OPW 21AG: an unleaded vapour recovery nozzle without vapour valve or (21AGV) with vapour valve OPW 21BG: an unleaded vapour recovery nozzle with no pressure/no flow device without vapour valve or (21BGV) with vapour valve
OPW 21ADB: an AdBlue nozzle with 19mm spout
For more information on the OPW 21 Series range, please visit www.opwglobal.com/21
OPW 21 Series Nozzle - Green
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OPW 21 Series Nozzle - Blue
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B & Q improves sustainability and safety with PCL tyre inflation units “Made in Sheffield” towers chosen for retailer’s UK distribution centres DIY giant B&Q is installing PCL’s D93 Air and Water Tower at its distribution centres to provide visitors and staff with a free tyre inflation facility. The new complimentary service allows customers access to the latest digital tyre inflation equipment, along with information about how to inflate tyres to the correct tyre pressure, for both safety and cost savings through decreased fuel consumption and extended tyre life. The company’s Redhouse Distribution Centre in Doncaster was the first to receive the tyre inflation unit as part of the company’s drive to improve sustainability and ensure safety best practice. Following a call from B&Q, PCL Business Development Manager Olly Shortland carried out an on-site inspection and risk assessment in order to identify a suitable area for the installation and advise on the best product specification. B&Q then instructed a local building service to complete the necessary groundworks for an electrical and water supply so that the D93 Air and Water combination unit with built-in compressor could be installed. The machine was manufactured and calibrated by PCL at its stateof-the-art factory in Sheffield and delivered and installed within the agreed time frame. B&Q also fitted protective barriers around the machine, featuring supporting information on tyre inflation and the importance of accurate tyre pressure. Further centres are now being equipped with a similar set-up. The D93 is PCL’s latest air tower design, built in the UK and
constructed to meet the exacting and testing demands of the modern petrol forecourt, whilst also providing an attractive and stylish appearance with room for corporate branding. Designed for harsh environments with a stainless steel or painted galvanized steel casing, all components - from the housing through to the tyre inflator, hoses and even the radiator filler - are robust and built for ease of use, reliability and long life. Units can be customised from PCL’s standard specification to suit individual customer requirements, making them ideal for retail outlets like B&Q where towers are required for multiple sites. The D93 tyre inflator is also designed for simplicity of use, featuring a default to safe setting and a large easy to read 30mm LCD transflective backlit screen as standard – making tyre inflation straightforward for B&Q’s visitors and staff. Olly Shortland said: “We were delighted to be contacted by B&Q for this project. Providing a free and convenient tyre inflation facility is a fantastic way to encourage drivers to ensure their tyres are inflated accurately. PCL’s D93 Air and Water Tower provides a versatile and user-friendly solution for B&Q’s sites and can include additional options such as screenwash and a Nitrogen generator for units without an internal compressor. Olly added: “B&Q’s forward-thinking operation is a great example of how large distribution centres or companies with a large car park can offer a value-added service. We also offer air, air and water, vacuum and vacuum and fragrance machines with or without payment systems, which means we can provide tyre inflation services to be offered as a complimentary facility or a service aimed at generating additional revenue.”
Dover Fueling Solutions announces new wetstock managements solutions partnership with Alvic AUSTIN, TEXAS (DATE) – Dover Fueling Solutions (DFS), a part of Dover Corporation that delivers advanced fuel dispensing equipment, electronic systems and payment, fleet systems, automatic tank gauging, and wetstock management, is thrilled to announce its new licensee agreement with Alvic for the distribution of its Fairbanks wetstock management services in Mexico, Central America and Peru. 56
Alvic is headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, but has an operation established in Mexico City, in addition to a direct and indirect presence in ten countries across Central and South America. Established in 1986 by Jaume Arcarons, who is still the current CEO, Alvic is also known as Servicomput SAU. Alvic is a renowned supplier of systems and payment software, as well as hardware solutions for the downstream fuel industry. With the addition of
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the Fairbanks wetstock management service to its portfolio, Alvic can now enhance its appeal to its already strong customer base in the region. As a direct result of this new partnership, the scope for potential future business for DFS is considerable, with over 22,000 fuel stations operating in the area. Victor Garduño, Director General Alvic Mexico, said: “We are very pleased to be able to add the Fairbanks expert monitoring service to our current offering, which provides us with a unique advantage in the market to deliver unmatched wetstock monitoring capabilities. We are really looking forward to providing this service to the region, where the opportunities for our customers to invest in advanced, analyst-led, third-party monitoring up to now have been limited.” Roc Arisa, Director General Alvic Group noted “This collaboration is a good strategic move for Alvic and one which I am sure will help to reinforce our commitment to our clients and deliver them an excellent return on investment.” Andy Sullivan, General Manager and Senior Director Wetstock, DFS, commented: “We are delighted to announce our partnership APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Press Releases with Alvic to bring our wetstock management services to Central and South America, where having a wetstock licensee presence is key for growing our share in the market. I am confident that by working together, we can deliver a service that will exceed customer expectations.” Tim Firkins, Business Development Senior Manager for wetstock at DFS added “We’re convinced that Alvic is uniquely placed to deliver our wetstock solutions to the region, drawing on its many
years of experience in providing service and system led value to its customers. I look forward to continuing to develop this partnership as the Alvic network grows; the region has huge potential. For more information, contact: Cheryl Ashton, Interim Director, Global Marketing Communications Dover Fueling Solutions +44 1695 52175 (Ext 6590)/Cheryl.Ashton@DoverFS.com
Dover Fueling Solutions Partners with Bilpa for the provision of its wetstock management solutions 28th July 2020 – Dover Fueling Solutions (“DFS”), a part of Dover Corporation and a leading global provider of advanced customerfocused technologies, services and solutions in the fuel and convenience retail industries, is delighted to announce its new agreement with Bilpa S.A. for the provision of its Fairbanks wetstock management services to the Uruguay and Paraguay markets. Bilpa is based in Montevideo and is a longstanding DFS distributor of Wayne products, as well as those of ProGauge and Dover sister company OPW predominantly selling fuel dispensers and nozzles, swivels and hoses etc. throughout the region. Now, with the addition of the Fairbanks fuel monitoring service, Bilpa can increase its offering to the circa 500 strong fuel stations in Uruguay, starting with a significant historical data analysis pilot for a leading oil company. The new service will assist site owners to comply with the recently introduced underground storage tank control measures, with both the service itself and the accompanying reporting seen as a positive contribution towards conformity. Bilpa is a renowned company in the industry, not only selling refuelling equipment, but also providing maintenance, construction, engineering projects and consultancy services, and employs approximately 130 staff. Walter Dura, President of Bilpa, said: “We are honoured to be able to add the Fairbanks expert monitoring service to our offering. With the introduction of the new regulations surrounding SIR leak detection, the service will be an extremely sought-affer addition from our customer base. We look forward to working with DFS for years to come.”
Andy Sullivan, General Manager and Senior Director Wetstock, DFS, commented: “We are extremely excited to partner with Bilpa and to bring our real-time wetstock management services to the South American continent for the first time. As well as having the peace of mind that even the smallest instances of fuel loss won’t go unnoticed, fuel station operators will also be able to benefit from the full depth of our solutions, which help them to understand trends, lower operational costs, improve margins and stay compliant. As a licensee of the Fairbanks wetstock management platform, Bilpa will be able to leverage the team’s many decades of experience in providing wetstock software and services, whilst crucially maintaining the local presence and market understanding that will ensure that customers get the most compelling value possible from the service. We’re confident that fuel station operators will quickly see the benefits and come to rely on Bilpa’s monitoring services as a key component of running their businesses.”
Dover Fueling Solutions launches DMP probe AUSTIN, TEXAS (September 14th 2020) – Dover Fueling Solutions (DFS), a part of Dover Corporation that delivers advanced fuel dispensing equipment, electronic systems and payment, fleet systems, automatic tank gauging, and wetstock management, is 58
proud to announce the launch of a brand-new addition to its family of fuel management products: the DFS DMP Probe. This global solution – and the only probe from DFS that can be purchased, installed and used anywhere in the world – is set to revolutionise
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fuel management for fuel retailers. Using magnetostrictive technology, the DMP probe provides continuous and highly accurate readings of liquids inside of the tank, and is currently available as a wired model, with the release of the wireless model following later in the year. The DMP has the ability to monitor all fuel types and additives, including bio fuels and AdBlue®, whilst also supporting density, phase separation, leak detection and inventory management through the purchase of optional density float kits and aqueous ethanol floats (AEF). The DMP probe is compatible with a wide range of DFS’ fuel management products, including the ProGauge MagLink LX family of consoles, the ProGauge MagDirect console, the Wayne Fusion Automation Server, and the OPW Fuel Management Systems SiteSentinel® NanoTM and IntegraTM consoles, and also has a range of impressive certifications, including ATEX, OMIL, UL and IECEx. Stefano Scatena, DFS ATG General Manager, said: “The launch of this highly-anticipated product is a very positive step for DFS, and enables us to offer a truly global solution to our customers. The DMP probe is compatible with all other probes and consoles in the DFS product portfolio, making it very simple to integrate with existing fuel management solutions. We’re excited to launch this revolutionary probe to our customers, who have come to expect only the very best performance and quality from DFS products, and look forward to promoting the wireless version later this year.” Fergus Heading, DFS ATG Product Manager, said: “Our teams have worked very hard developing and testing this product to the highest standard over the last year. The launch of this probe takes us one step closer to achieving our company mission: to be a leading global provider of advanced, customer-focused technologies, services and solutions in the fuel and convenience retail sectors.” APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Adler and Allan partners with HOYER Petrolog UK Ltd for road tanker testing 17 August 2020 - Environmental risk reduction specialist Adler and Allan has agreed a three-year partnership with HOYER Petrolog UK Ltd to carry out road tanker testing across its road fuel tanker fleet. The contract with HOYER Petrolog UK Ltd will include holding their fleet details on a secure database, to ensure that all tests are carried out on schedule. Clients have password-protected database access to view their fleet information, including test results and certificates. The integrity of the barrel and tank on road tankers should be tested every two years according to the Road Traffic (Carriage of Dangerous Substances in Road Tankers and Tank Containers) Regulations 1992. Adler and Allan is approved by the Department for Transport to provide road tanker testing across the UK and issue Safe Loading Passes as well as meeting strict UKAS standards (0311 Type C Inspection Body Accredited to ISO/IEC 17020:2012). Adler and Allan is also approved and accredited for testing general
purpose and bitumen tanks as well as meter and fire extinguisher testing which is required annually. Andrew Clarke, Forecourt Services Managing Director, Adler and Allan, said: “We are delighted that HOYER Petrolog UK Ltd has trusted us with their road tanker testing in the UK. As well as road tanker testing we are accredited to perform vapour tightness testing, intermediate and periodic inspection and testing. “We are also experts in chemical compliance and have a 24/7 hazardous materials advice line. If you are transporting any bulk liquid in the UK, we can ensure you remain compliant and safe.” The news follows the latest announcement that Adler and Allan has extended its leak detection capability by offering Leighton O’Brien’s Automatic Tank Gauge Alarm Management solution and Wetstock Live fuel management software to the UK petroleum industry. For more information visit the website at: https://www.adlerandallan.co.uk/fuel-and-energy-services/tankservices/road-tanker-testing/
New one stop shop for the forecourt industry BXE services Ltd has been set up by well known industry figure Stuart Tomkinson. With over 30 years experience working in the forecourt industry, Stuart is offering a comprehensive service nationwide to the sector. On completion of his JIB electrical apprenticeship in 1986, Stuart has continued with his learning, achieving his C certificate via distance learning, then achieving Compex 7 & 8 (petrol filling stations), City & Guilds inspection & testing 2391, as well as the current IET wiring regulations, BS7671:2018. 60
These years of experience came from working for many of the well known names in the forecourt industry, including Gilbarco, Wayne, Dover and Eurotank. As well as considerable expertise in electrical installation within the forecourt industry, Stuart has cultivated a holistic understanding of how all of the services on a forecourt interact, with expertise in pump, gauge, EPOS, tank and pipework. After all, there is no point fixing one problem and then creating another. Stuart has always taken a hands-on approach and is passionate
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offer a full service for any technical issues you might have - a one stop shop for all your needs. If you need a refurbishment, Stuart can design the installation based on your requirements. If needed, he can then arrange a package of disciplines and prices, liaise to ensure these meet your requirements, and then oversee the job and then sign off the completed works ensuring you have all the necessary paperwork. With access to various manufacturers you can be assured the best equipment to achieve your requirements and value for money will be offered. If you need one port of call to organise all of your compliance requirements, annual electrical testing etc, look no further. Got a problem, no matter where you are, simply contact BXE services and your problem will be solved!
about working with people to help them solve problems, whether this be contractors or forecourt operators.
If you’re a specialist contractor working nationwide, but need specific help to complete a project, ring Stuart who will have the contacts to ensure your project is completed on time and within budget. And even for the major manufacturers and installers BXE can help you particularly with some of your smaller projects – pass them to Stuart in the knowledge that they are in expert hands.
Being involved in project management in the industry, Stuart has built up a network of dedicated, exceptional regional contractors in all aspects of forecourt work, to offer a truly nationwide coverage.
Safety and compliance are of paramount importance to any industry, none more so than ours. Being able to deliver hazardous area electrical works and projects safely and advise on maintaining compliance is the core of what BXE Services Ltd can offer.
So, what can BXE services offer me?
BXE Services Ltd is based in Bolton, Lancashire, but no matter where you are, for that personal, reliable and expert service contact Stuart Tomkinson at stuart.bxe@btinternet.com or ring 07786 501076.
Well, if you are an operator, they can
Leave your annual requirements to us safe in the knowledge that your certification will be provided on time to ensure a happy licensing officer.
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Aliaxis and Berry’s Technologies fuelling the future with PLX Westfield Services is one of the first UK companies to experience the timesaving benefits of Aliaxis’ new PLX One-Weld Fittings range, having used the innovative product as part of a new service station project on the A44 in Pinvin, Worcestershire. The One-Weld Fittings form part of Aliaxis’ wider PLX fuel system range, designed to provide a reliable solution for the transfer of fuel from underground fuel tanks through to the dispenser lines. As forecourts continue to grow and evolve, installers and contractors are increasingly looking for products and solutions that enable them to deliver projects both quickly and efficiently. Aliaxis’ new PLX One-Weld Fittings are one such example, offering a significant time and space advantage for installers. As its name suggests, the modern time-saving solution offers the ability to fuse four welding surfaces in only one weld cycle. The benefits of this were recently demonstrated during the build of a new service station in Pinvin, Worcestershire. The procurement and installation of the below ground pipework element of the process was contracted to Westfield Services. In turn, the installation team utilised the support of Aliaxis’ UK PLX distributor, Berry’s Technologies, to help with product specification and technical advice. With 110/125mm Secondary-Contained Close-Fit Pipe used on the offset fill lines, Berry’s Technologies recommended PLX One-Weld Fittings to be used in conjunction. Part of the PLX fuel system range, the industry first 90-degree elbow and innovative coupler can generate significant time savings for installers – as much as 15 minutes per fitting on site. This is because primary and secondary joints can be welded simultaneously, which reduces total fusion time, as well the number of preparation steps required, making the installation process much quicker and more efficient. Over the course of a project on the scale of the Pinvin Service Station, this saving can end up equating to almost half a day of labour. The elbows in particular also take up less space than the existing alternatives, helping to reduce excavation size. In addition to time and space savings, the PLX One-Weld Fittings also include a number of innovative product benefits. The coupler features an integrated pipe measurement guide, which indicates the correct socket depth that is required for both primary and secondary PLX Close-Fit pipes, allowing for quicker and easier installation. On the Pinvin Service Station project, these technical features helped the Westfield Services team to generate further time savings, without compromising on quality. Mark McCleary, Operations Director at Berry’s Technologies, commented: “After listening to client feedback, we are delighted to now be able to offer the new innovative Aliaxis PLX One-Weld Fittings range to our customers. It ticks all the boxes in terms of what we have been told pipework installers are looking for. The new fittings further complement the Berry’s ‘Plug and Play’ offering and enhances our ethos of supplying an installer friendly package of products. “Making installations easier, reducing installation time and ultimately reducing costs for the client is always at the forefront of our minds, and the PLX One-Weld Fittings range does all of that. When installed alongside Berry’s ATLAS range of products; ATLAS Mono Chamber System, FillMaster, VentMaster, and SumpMaster, it has never been quicker or easier to turn around a forecourt pipework installation.” Comprising an internal permeation barrier, offering maximum environmental protection and peace of mind, the wider PLX system is suitable for use with traditional fuels, leaded, unleaded petroleum, diesel and alternative fuels such as bio-diesel, E10, E85 and a range of fuel oils. Furthermore, the new fittings are fully compatible with the existing PLX tooling range while also conforming to EN 14125 requirements, when used in conjunction with the PLX Close-Fit SecondaryContained Pipework. For more information on Aliaxis’ PLX One-Weld Fittings, please contact plx@aliaxis.com or for distribution enquiries, contact enquiries@berrys.com 62
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Dover Fueling Solutions launches groundbreaking DFS Anthem UX™ user experience platform
AUSTIN, TEXAS – July 17, 2020 – Dover Fueling Solutions (“DFS”), a part of Dover Corporation and a leading global provider of advanced customer-focused technologies, services and solutions in the fuel and convenience retail industries, is thrilled to announce the launch of its highly anticipated DFS Anthem UX™ user experience platform. This revolutionary user experience platform is making its debut in North America on DFS’ Wayne Ovation® fuel dispenser. Featuring a 27” touchscreen display, super-intuitive functionality, personalized content, multi-language selection and multiple media options through DX Promote™, part of the DFS DX™ connected solutions platform, the Anthem UX platform introduces consumers to a new kind of fueling experience. It is the first of its kind to give customers the ability to fine-tune their experience, while also providing retailers with the tools and data they need to maximize each customer interaction with targeted advertising and promotions, as well as integrate loyalty apps. “We are very excited to be launching the DFS Anthem UX platform to the market,” said DFS President David Crouse. “We believe this product will revolutionize every aspect of the customer experience. From touchscreen interaction, wireless connectivity, recognition, media, security, contactless payment options and more, the Anthem UX platform truly equips the retailer with endless flexibility and futureproof possibilities, while also creating an experience that is fast, easy, relevant and even fun for consumers.” For ordering information and to learn more about the Anthem UX user experience platform, visit www.doverfuelingsolutions.com/AnthemUX. APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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John Carey, former BP and ADNOC senior executive, appointed as GripHero Chairman Devon, United Kingdom, Tuesday 22 September – GripHero, the company behind the award-winning hand-protection for fuel retailers, has appointed former BP and ADNOC senior executive John Carey as Chairman. The move comes as GripHero looks to meet increased demand for safe, convenient and environmentally friendly hand-protection at forecourts and fuel stations globally. GripHero’s internationally patented hand-protection system is ATEX-certified and anti-static, allowing it to be fitted on fuel pump handles, which improves convenience and – combined with its single item release system – removes waste. With a plastic and carbon footprint over 70% lower than standard gloves, GripHero has been independently verified as the greenest product of its type on the market. Already in 2020, GripHero has experienced triple-digit sales growth. New supply agreements have made its core hand-protection products available to motorists on four continents, and continued expansion in these markets is expected before the end of 2020, as well as growth into a fifth continent. GripHero’s Founder and CEO, Oli Yeo, commented: “Demand for GripHero’s safe, convenient and environmentally friendly hand-protection has grown substantially in 2020 as consumers increasingly demand a better product. John Carey brings more than 30 years of downstream experience in the US, Europe and the Middle East, which will prove invaluable as we look to drive further growth and develop new product lines in the future. I am delighted to officially welcome John to GripHero.” John Carey was formerly a CEO of various BP fuel retail, B2B, refining and lubricants businesses in the US and Europe, before joining ADNOC Distribution to lead its successful $8.5bn IPO and transformation, which resulted in 22% EBITDA growth in his first year. “GripHero is a fantastic start-up success story that has a unique product which addresses a genuine consumer need for safe, convenient and environmentally friendly hand-protection. Oli is a first-class engineer who’s built an impressive business that is primed for further growth, particularly given increasing expectations around safety and hygiene in the COVID-19 era. I look forward to supporting Oli as the company develops in the future,” John Carey, GripHero’s new Chairman said. GripHero is privately held and was established in 2017 by Oli Yeo. The business has since won several industry awards which are closely aligned to the Company’s core values and attributes, including the prestigious 2019 APEA Environmental Protection and Improvement Award; the 2019 APEA Innovation Award; and the 2019 Tomorrow’s Health and Safety Award. For more information about GripHero, visit www.griphero.comor call 01837 811035. 64
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Largest independent forecourt network in Cyprus rolls out GripHero Cypriot drivers to be protected from contaminants and Covid-19 at the fuel pump. EKO, the largest independent forecourt network in Cyprus, accounting for around 30% of all fuel stations on the island, has announced it will be installing GripHero’s award-winning dispensers and ATEX-Certified anti-static handprotection across its network of 96 forecourts on the island. Installed to enhance customer safety by minimising the potential transfer of germs, biohazards, chemical or biological contamination, GripHero’s patented dispensers are playing an important role in preventing the transfer of Covid-19 at the fuel pump. Drivers pulling into EKO Cyprus forecourts will be able to find GripHero dispensers within easy reach of fuel nozzles. This is made possible through GripHero’s use of antistatic materials, making it the only dispenser permitted internationally, within the fuelling zone. APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Press Releases GripHero is also helping to reduce the environmental impact of hand-protection at EKO’s forecourts. Through the installation of its highly efficient dispensers, which release only one item of handprotection at a time, GripHero prevents wastage of single use plastic. This is a particular issue for traditional glove dispensers, which are especially prone to the withdrawal clumps of gloves, resulting in excess gloves either being taken away or left by motorists to blow into the environment. On average, GripHero reduces the amount of hand-protection used on forecourts by 55%. By fitting GripHero, EKO Cyprus is also dramatically slashing its carbon footprint. This is because GripHero has no plastic waste or off-cuts during production, unlike conventional hand protection. It also uses a fraction of the packaging compared to standard alternatives, and minimises space needed for transport. Together, this results in a 75% smaller hand-protection carbon footprint for EKO Cyprus. A spokesman for the network commented: “At EKO Cyprus, we recognise the extra importance and high demand for customer safety when refueling on our sites. By using GripHero across our network, we are delighted to offer our customers best-in-class, carbon-friendly and certified static-safe protection in the fueling zone.”
Inventor and Managing Director of GripHero, Oli Yeo, commented: “EKO Cyprus is leading the way in the protection of the health and wellbeing of drivers on the island of Cyprus. But that’s far from the full story. Their focus on reducing the impact of single-use handprotection is set to dramatically lower the volume of single use plastic that could otherwise end up in the marine environment. As a proud island nation that relies on its coastal waters for food, tourism and entertainment, this is understandably a high priority for EKO Cyprus.” GripHero’s patented product range offers the only dispenser in the world permitted to sit on fuel pump handles. GripHero’s awardwinning ATEX-Certified anti-static hand-protection material removes all chance of ignition caused by static, uniquely enabling the dispensers to be fitted and used in the refueling zone. Since the global spread of Covid-19, forecourt operators and drivers alike have been focussed on protection and safety at the pumps. As a result, GripHero has seen exceptionally high demand, resulting in the business tripling production and capacity, with new orders received on 4 continents. For more information about GripHero, visit www.griphero.com or call +44 1837 811035.
A strong partnership in Latin America rises: Implico Group and Aquarius Software join hands to drive the digitalization of the oil and gas industry together Hamburg/São Paulo. The downstream IT experts Implico Group and Aquarius Software are glad to announce their partnership. They are collaborating on future-oriented automation and digitalization projects in Latin America. Their common aim: to guide downstream companies on their digital transformation journey and help them to make their supply chains fit for the future. Together, the partners will implement innovative technology, such as the terminal management system OpenTAS, at their customers’ sites. To continue its global growth strategy and access a very promising market, Implico Group strives to work with strong local partners – especially in Latin America, a key area for the oil and gas trade of today and tomorrow. The company is particularly eager to bring its next-gen terminal management system OpenTAS to the region’s huge tank storage sector. For this, Implico Group has found a perfect match with Aquarius Software, headquartered in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Combining their deep know-how and experience, the two partners aspire to introduce their clients to the many benefits of digitalization, such as streamlined processes, increased transparency, better collaboration and more safety along the entire supply chain.
Thomas Roller, Head of Sales & Marketing at Implico Group
Marcia Campos, Executive Director & Partner at Aquarius Software
“Aquarius Software has a thorough understanding of the downstream industry plus a wide-spread network, a spotless reputation and a forward-looking mindset,” lauds Thomas Roller, Head of Sales & Marketing at Implico Group. “Sharing similar aims and values, we look forward to drive digital transformation for oil and gas enterprises in Latin America together. In fact, we 66
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Press Releases are already at it. The cooperation agreement has already been signed and the first implementation project is underway.” Marcia Campos, Executive Director & Partner at Aquarius Software, is excited about the union as well: “We always look for the best solution for our customers. Implico is recognized in this
market with awarded solutions and numerous customers worldwide. There is a natural synergy between the companies, which have a strong focus on digital transformation and clear orientation towards their customers’ businesses. I am sure that this partnership will lead to more project opportunities for both companies as well as strong benefits for our customers.”
MFG appoints new Commercial Director Motor Fuel Group (MFG), the UK’s largest independent forecourt operator, is pleased to announce the appointment of David Pitron as its new commercial director. David joins MFG from BP, where he worked for the past 16 years in a variety of trading, offer, strategy and partnership development positions in the UK and overseas. His last position was as the UKbased global retail commercial development director, where he was responsible for establishing new retail offers and partnerships and the development of a global convenience strategy. Before joining BP, David spent four years as a senior buyer with the foodservice operator, Compass Group. He started his career with Marks & Spencer, joining their graduate training programme and spending five years in store management and buying roles. David will report to MFG’s managing director, retail, Steve Fox who said: “David joins us as we are rapidly developing our ambitious retail plans for our network. I am confident that his experience will prove invaluable in maximizing shop income and establishing strong relationships with our key suppliers and service providers.”
Sevan acquires UK-based Wyeth Projects Services transition across our companies, as both Sevan’s and Wyeth’s core values, culture and business practices are very similar. Additionally, working alongside Wyeth will further expand the trust of key international clients and accelerate our growth.” Wyeth — a U.K.-based project management services firm with 20+ employees ¬— was founded in 2009 with a strong reputation for project delivery in the U.K. and globally. Founder Barry Wyeth has grown the business successfully and sees this acquisition as an opportunity to expand into new markets and sectors. DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. — Sevan MultiSite Solutions, Inc. (Sevan) — a global leader in innovative design, program management, construction services and data analytics — has acquired Wyeth Projects Services Ltd. (Wyeth), a U.K.based project management services organization serving petroleum, retail and quick-service restaurant clients. The acquisition will add to Sevan’s global footprint and expand the company’s client portfolio.
“I am extremely excited about this next chapter in the Wyeth story,” said Barry Wyeth. “Together we will provide greater value to our existing clients and expand our client base into new sectors. We share the same values and ambitions to grow and develop in line with Sevan’s vision.” Founded in 2011, Sevan helps clients develop, refresh and update their portfolio of sites. Large public competitors are not typically focused on the multi-site market, and smaller companies are often unable to compete with the breadth and quality of services Sevan provides. In 2020, Sevan was recognized as an Employee-Rated Great Place to Work® for the 7th consecutive year and ranked No. 124 on the Financial Times FT 1000 list of America’s FastestGrowing Companies. In 2018, Great Place to Work® and FORTUNE ranked Sevan No. 29 on the list of 100 Best Medium Workplaces. A full list of awards and rankings Sevan has earned to date is available on Sevan’s website.
“We are thrilled to welcome Wyeth to the Sevan family,” said Jim Evans, Sevan is a construction and project management firm that leverages innovative technology to President and CEO of Sevan. “We look deliver excellence to clients. Sevan is headquartered near Chicago, in Downers Grove, Illinois, forward to a smooth and seamless with 400+ employees and an international office in London. 68
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ISTOBAL transforms vehicle wash facilities into sanitization sites • A large number of customers have shown interest in this new wash facility concept for the disinfection and sanitization of vehicles, the first prototypes of which are already in operation in Spain. UK (14-september-2020) - The Spanish group ISTOBAL, which specializes in vehicle wash and care solutions for the automotive industry, has developed new technologies for the interior and exterior sanitization of cars in order to respond to the new cleaning needs arising from COVID-19.
• It is developing programs for sanitization in automatic car wash and jet wash sites and will soon be launching arches for the external disinfection of commercial and railway vehicles.
The company leads the development of advanced technologies for cleaning, sanitization and disinfection through solutions that are safe for people and do not damage surfaces. These new sanitation technologies are included on the website www.istobal.com.
• The chemicals used by ISTOBAL are registered as biocidal and viricidal products and have passed the tests of effectiveness and compatibility with different materials and surfaces.
For interior sanitization, ISTOBAL has developed a manual sprayer that sprays
• It introduces sprays with disinfectant chemical and ozone equipment for interior sanitization and arches for the exterior disinfection of vehicles.
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Press Releases disinfectant product onto all vehicle surfaces and can also be used for exterior sanitization. In addition, the Spanish group produces ozone equipment that completely sanitizes the vehicle in 8 minutes, including the ventilation system and using the vehicle's air recirculation. It should be noted that ozone also eliminates unpleasant odours by oxidation. Solutions for exterior sanitization For exterior sanitization, the company has designed an easy-to-install autonomous arch composed of several sprayers that spray biocidal product as vehicles drive through, reaching all areas, including the underside. Thanks to a photocell detection system, the arch is automatically activated when the vehicle drives through and quickly and effectively disinfects vehicles up to 2.8 metres high. This arch has an average disinfection capacity of about 1,000 vehicles per day and is particularly suitable for first response vehicles that may be in constant contact with the virus, such as ambulances or law enforcement emergency vehicles. ISTOBAL will soon launch an adaptation of this arch for the external disinfection of commercial vehicles (such as buses, fire engines, refrigerated trailers, waste management and animal transport) and railways (trams, underground trains and trains). For the disinfection of truck interiors, the company already has ISTOBAL HW'INTRAWASH, Europe's first standardised automatic equipment for the professional washing and disinfection of refrigerated trailers, truck bodies, trailers and shipping containers. In addition, ISTOBAL has incorporated specific programs in the rollovers of its M'NEX and M'START range and in its high-pressure jet wash facilities for external vehicle sanitization, as a final complement to a wash programme. These programs can be easily adapted to these wash equipment ranges, using upgrade kits to incorporate this new service.
All ISTOBAL disinfectant chemicals are registered as virucidal and biocidal for contact surface hygiene and have been tested for effectiveness in terms of concentration and application times as well as compatibility with various surfaces inside and outside the vehicle.
A large number of customers have shown interest in incorporating this new wash facility concept for the disinfection and sanitization of vehicles, the first prototypes of which are already in operation in Spain. The objective with these spaces is that both individuals and companies with transport fleets can clean their vehicles, as well as sanitize the interior and For greater safety in wash areas, the exterior. Spanish group recommends a specific brush shampoo product with sanitiser Videos about these new technologies are available on YouTube with the titles below: that prevents contamination by transfer between car wash machines and We take care of the vehicle. And also, of the people. Sanitization arches for PPE and vehicles. vehicles. 70
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Press Releases
MFG opens new flagship forecourt on Jersey Motor Fuel Group (MFG), the UK’s largest independent forecourt operator, has just opened a new-to-industry station on Jersey. Operated under MFG’s Roberts Garages brand, Roberts West is MFG’s fourth station on the island.
bakery, Costa coffee and a wide range of wines and beers.
Located beside Jersey Airport, this Esso branded station is the largest petrol forecourt in the Channel Islands. It offers the full range of Esso fuels, a 2000 sq. ft. convenience store, extensive valeting facilities and a ‘state of the art’ Auto Centre.
The Auto Centre, which complements a Roberts Garages’ Auto Centre in St. Helier, offers customers the repair and fitting of tyres, batteries, exhausts and brakes in addition to full vehicle servicing and repairs.
The attractive store offers an exciting range of fresh Jersey produce, groceries, a varied selection of ‘food to go’, dessert bar,
The new station’s address is Roberts West, L’Avenue de la Commune, St. Peter, Jersey JE3 7ZR.
The valeting area features a top of the range rollover car wash, four undercover jet wash bays, vacuum and air/water facilities.
Devon invention protects millions from Covid-19 at motorway fuel pumps across the country Drivers can look forward to a safer refueling experience at motorway service stations across the UK, all thanks to the installation of GripHero - a Devon invention which protects drivers from contamination, Covid-19 and other dangerous contaminants at the fuel pump.
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on fuel-nozzles. This is made possible through GripHero’s use of ATEX-Certified anti-static material, which means its dispensers and hand-protection can be used in the refueling zone without concern of petrol vapour ignition caused by static-energy discharge.
Following a Titanic effort, the hand-protection dispensers have been installed at motorway service stations on all mainland motorways. In total 70%, of motorway service stations, including Moto’s network of Motorway Service Areas, now have GripHero in place.
Now, drivers can easily find hand-protection and, using GripHero’s smart release system, withdraw it without coming into contact with surfaces touched by motorists who may be carriers of Covid-19. This is important as drivers who cough or sneeze on their hands whilst driving can easily pass on traces of infected mucus via the fuel pump handle to hundreds of other drivers.
Unlike traditional hand-protection, GripHero’s dispensers can be found on fuel pumps right next to the point of refueling as well as
Located on each and every fuel bay and in many cases on each fuel pump, GripHero avoids another issue typically encountered at
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Press Releases
forecourts; shortages of hand-protection. This is achieved through the dispensers’ one item withdrawal mechanism, which prevents clumps of gloves being withdrawn and wasted; a common problem with traditional dispensers which leads to frequent shortages of hand-protection at peak times. GripHero was created following inventor Oli Yeo’s struggle to find hand-protection at numerous forecourts across the UK. Independent research, commissioned by GripHero in 2017, showed that over 80% of drivers regularly filled up without using hand-protection because they couldn’t find gloves, or because standard dispensers were empty. Determined to put an end to this situation and to help protect drivers from foul-smelling, fuel impregnated hands, as well as the potential for contracting sickness, illness and disease from other drivers, Oli Yeo invented and patented the world’s only on-thefuel-nozzle hand-protection dispenser. Little did he know that the outbreak of Covid-19 would lead to forecourts on five continents installing GripHero. Among the many motorway service stations ready to greet drivers with GripHero, is the multi-award-winning Gloucester Services, run by Westmorland Ltd. Andy Smith, Group Fuels Manager for Westmorland Ltd, explains: “It is more important than ever before to protect our customers in the best way we possibly can. By offering GripHero, Westmorland Ltd is playing its part in the battle against coronavirus, and is
dramatically reducing wastage that other glove dispensers produce. We’re also eliminating the static-risks for our customers in the fuelling zone.” Commenting on the protection that GripHero now provides on the UK’s motorways, Oli Yeo, inventor and managing director of Hatherleigh-based GripHero, said: “Protecting the health and wellbeing of drivers across the UK motorway network is a dream come true. When we started out, our vision was to change the face of forecourts for the better, and here we are today doing exactly that at the same time as dramatically reducing the environmental impact of hand-protection used on forecourts and service stations.” Since the start of the pandemic, GripHero has prevented over 300 tonnes of plastic from entering the waste stream; both as a result of its non-waste manufacturing process and through its single item dispensing solution. In comparison to standard gloves, this reduces dispenser waste by as much as 100%. The number of GripHero hand-protectors used on the average forecourt is 55% lower than standard gloves, due to this elimination of wastage. GripHero has also saved over 1,000 tonnes of CO2 that would have been created by the manufacture and use of conventional gloves and has removed 50 tonnes of unnecessary cardboard boxes used to house traditional gloves. Combined, independent verification has proven GripHero to be the forecourt hand-protection sector’s lowest producer of carbon. For more information about GripHero, visit www.griphero.com or call 01837 811035.
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Press Releases/Branches
ZEN Petroleum establishes Accra presence with expanded retail offerings (Accra, Ghana, October 2020) - ZEN Petroleum has opened two additional service stations in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, expanding its retail presence across Ghana’s capital. The stations are located in the towns of Sowutuom and Mamprobi, bringing the total number of stations in the capital to four, with more under construction. In keeping with its commitment to have all new stations designed, constructed and operating in accordance with The Blue Book, the stations are equipped with double wall tanks, leak detection, overfill prevention, flame arrestors, oil separators and other key safety features built in. Additionally, the stations provide disabled parking and access to ensure inclusive access to its facilities for all. Having focused much of its Retail operations in the North and West of Ghana, ZEN’s growing presence in the Capital marks major growth for the company. In a statement, Retail Director Prince Awuley stated that, “ZEN’s Retail network and market position in Ghana has grown due to leading the supply of quality fuels in the market, customer-focused service delivery, supply reliability and security assurance, as well as ZEN Petroleum is a market leader in supplying high quality hydrocarbon products to major investments in safety and standards. We’re excited for the people of Accra to the industrial and retail sectors in Ghana, with 29 stations now operational countrywide. experience the ZEN difference.
Branches Southern The Southern Branch recently held a Branch meeting via Zoom on the topic of EV Charging on Forecourts.
contributor in this field we were fortunate to receive an excellent detailed presentation.
The meeting started with Ray Blake, our Branch Chairman, introducing John Dallimore, who will be well known to many APEA members as an expert in the field of electrical installations on forecourts and in other hazardous areas.
Whilst this period of uncertainty over physical meetings continues, video conferenced meetings and training sessions appear to be the only viable way for Branch meetings to take place.
John covered the technical aspects of an EV installation, and as a contributor to the guidance surrounding this topic members were able get a full explanation of the thinking behind it.
Members who joined us and received CPD certificates were all very complimentary over the way the Branch were able to provide this session and we will certainly be repeating the idea with another topic in due course.
The meeting continued with Clare Scawthorn, the Head of Petroleum at London Fire Brigade, detailing the legal aspects of installing EV charging on forecourts. Again, as Clare is a leading 74
David Sommers Branch Secretary
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Branches/Training
Eastern FREE TECHNICAL WEBINAR – SAVE THE DATE!! Thursday 3rd December 2020 at 2pm (time subject to change)
or look out for links to the registration page which will be sent out soon via email and on our social channels.
Free to attend webinar from the APEA Eastern Branch will focus on the challenges and opportunities of new alternative fuels with one eye on the commercial vehicle refuelling sector.
We expect this event to be very popular and numbers may be limited so please register your interest early and don't be late on the day!
This free-to-attend online zoom event is to be hosted by the APEA's Eastern Branch on 3rd December.
The LIVE online event will span roughly 1.5 hours and we hope to bring you live presentations from industry experts to cover the following topics:
"Unfortunately the COVID-19 pandemic has stopped us from being able to host the APEA Live national exhibition and conference as well as our regional branch meetings" says APEA Eastern Branch Chairman, Anton Martiniussen. "So instead we will bring this new webinar event into the homes and offices of our members and everyone else who may be interested via Zoom". How to attend This free online event is open to all, you don't need to be an APEA member. To register your interest today please go to the website below tinyurl.com/APEA2020
• An update on the latest news in the world of petroleum regulations and standards • New Petrol / Plug-in Hybrid commercial vehicles • Petrol dispensing vs Diesel dispensing • HVO - A diesel fuel which offers lower emissions than battery electric vehicles? • EV Battery Fires - Lessons we need to learn fast Alex Boudry Branch Representative email: alex.boudry@pfsfueltec.com
Training The APEA Goes Back to School By Brian Humm, APEA Trainer and Bulletin Editor The COVID 19 pandemic certainly has a lot to answer for, the APEA following government advice and in order to safeguard the Association trainers and members, cancelled all the advertised training courses for the foreseeable future in March 2020. Fast forward now to September 2020, the lockdown in force has gradually been lifted throughout the UK, businesses are returning to normality (sort of) and the Association’s training team decided to start to look into supplying the training courses once again. One of our most popular courses that we undertake is the 3-day audit and inspection course; in September this is usually held at Stansted Airport at the Novotel Hotel. We contacted the hotel and requested a copy of their risk assessment in respect of Covid,19 and the controls that they have in place. We also looked into what measures that we, as a responsible training provider, could also implement in order to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our delegates. It was decided that the Association would supply hand sanitiser and face masks individually to each delegate at the start of the course; we would also have the option and equipment to undertake temperature checks, if required, at the start of the day. 76
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Training
One other major differences on this course was that the delegate places were limited to 10, this is so we could maintain social distancing within the training room. Given that this course has attracted 22 delegates before is a considerable reduction. Those of you reading this will also be aware that we undertake a visit to a petrol filling station to carry out an audit on the 3rd day of the course; the site visit to Sainsbury’s in Bishops Stortford still went ahead but only for the forecourt area in respect of equipment and safety features. The back office and paperwork part of the audit was undertaken virtually in the classroom to ensure the safety of all involved in such a small area (big thank you to Jeff Simms, Lead Petrol Specialist at Sainsbury’s Limited and the local staff for accommodating us on this occasion, this is really appreciated). The hotel, in both the trainers’ opinion, did a fantastic job of organising and ensuring safety and security of their guests, as well as the APEA team. APEA tel/fax 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Training
Measures in place included copious signage on arrival and throughout the hotel in respect of masks and their use, hand sanitiser units placed strategically around the hotel, more concentrated in the communal areas, also in and around the training rooms and break out areas. The desks were sanitised daily in the room and a green sign informing delegates of this was placed on each desk; same with the restaurant tables, once used a red sign was placed on top of the table, when sanitised this was replaced with a green sign indicating it was good to go.
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All this was coordinated by Mr Toshi Saito who is the Operations Manager of the hotel. I would personally like to thank him for his assistance and help during this initial return into the fray. We are going to run 2-3 more courses at this venue in the very near future given the sense of security and help that was extended to us during our time there. All the training dates can now be found on the association website for 2021 at www.apea.org.uk.
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Training
Training course dates 2021 Please contact the APEA office for a quotation for a bespoke course for any of the courses listed below at admin@apea.org.uk, with an approximate number of delegates and preferred dates.
DSEAR 22 April 17 Sept
3 Day Combined Petrol Filling Stations – Construction, Audit and Inspection Course 12 - 14 April Manchester Airport 21 - 23 June Solihull 6 - 8 September Stansted Airport
Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulations 2014 19 April Manchester Airport 13 September Stansted Airport
Safe Installation and Use of LPG 15 September Stansted Airport
Petrol Filling Station courses on request Vapour Recovery Installations Leak Investigation
Explosives and Fireworks 21 September Stansted Airport
3 day course with accommodation 3 day, day delegate rate 1 day course
Manchester Airport Stansted Airport
Enforcement Procedures An Awareness 20 April Manchester Airport 14 September Stansted Airport
Electrical Installations - An Awareness 28 April Manchester Airport 23 September Swindon
Course Fees
Wetstock Management 15 April Manchester Airport 16 September Stansted Airport
APEA Member £1020.00 £810.00 £260.00
Non member £1120.00 £910.00 £310.00
More information and booking details on the “Training” page at www.apea.org.uk Anyone booking a training course that is not an APEA member will automatically receive complimentary “Individual” membership to the APEA for one year.
Courses will be designed around the (4th edition) Blue Book Guidance for the Design, Construction, Modification, Maintenance and Decommissioning of Filling Stations (May 2018). A hard copy and a pdf version of the 4th Edition is available from the Publications page of the APEA website at www.apea.org.uk The hardcopy is £75.00 to APEA Members and £150.00 to non APEA members. There is no VAT charged on the hardcopy or pdf formats. The pdf version can be purchased with a licence for individual use and cannot be shared or printed. It is strongly recommended that attendees have access to this document during courses.
For details of this and any other training enquiry, please contact: Jane Mardell - APEA Business Manager email: admin@apea.org.uk Tel: + 44 (0) 345 603 5507 or Thomas Daly (Chairman of Training Committee) T el: +353 876899281/+353 876899281 or email: thomasdaly@apea.org.uk
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