The Bulletin – January 1973

E. V. BEEBY

J. BEER

J. BENNETT

J. BIRKS P. H. CARTWRIGHT D.HALL S. W. D. HARRIS G.H.HARVEY W. HETHERINGTON

THE ASSOCIATION FOR PETROLEUM ACTS ADMINISTRATION

Chairman; RP. HOLDAWAY

Rugby RD.C. 2071

Worcester City 23156 Morley B. 5541 Chesterfield B. 2825

Vice-Chairman; J. W. HEWISON Council; B. HODGSON K. C. HUGHES T.KERR

Wigton RD.C. 2133/5 Stafford B. 3507

ANGLIA

CUMBRIA

EAST MIDLAND

NORTHERN

NORTH WESTERN

SCOTTISH

SOUTH EASTERN

SOUTH EAST MIDLAND

Hartlepool C.B. 0429 2474

NewcastIe-under-Lyme 0872 60161 Gloucester RD.C. 26223

K. MacLEOD H. R MELLOR C. R PESKETT R. E. J. RODEN J. SHORT Dudley C.B. 55433 Witney U,D.C. 3241

Officers;

Hon. Secretary; J. W. FRID

WESSEX AND SOUTH WALES WEST MIDLAND YORKSHIRE

Hon. Electrical Adviser;

J. A. SHARP,

Hon Legal Adviser; P. D. WADSWORTH,

Hon. Editor; B. W. THACKER Branch Secretaries; J. W. FRID, B. HODGSON, J, BIRKS, P. H. CARTWRIGHT, H. R MELLOR, J. SHORT, C. R PESKETT, R. E. DUST, R HUNTINGTON, G. BALSHAW, J. BENNETT,

Glanford Brigg RD.C. Brigg 2441/ Dumbarton 2351 5

Blackpool C.B. 23848 Godalming B. 6191/4 Birmingham City 0212353089 Paisley 041 889 5400

Hon. Treasurer; C. T. PEACOCK

" , •

Talking Point

A TIME FOR ACTION

In July of last year we made 'comment on the possibility of an increase in incidents involving road tankers carrying hazardous loads. In October we published an aide-memoire on emergency procedures which could be of help to petroleum inspectors who wished ,to make advance plans for dealing with a major incident. Special General Meeting 9 Since then there have been two such incidents reported on the M6 motorway involving hazardous loads, one of which had fatal consequences. Branch Reports Petrol Marinas Panel A. Reports Robens Report Legal Proceedings

Petroleum inspectors, as well as safety and rescue expert3,echo the words of H.M. Inspectors of Expl'osives who stated in 1971 "Overturned road tankers can have disastrous results" but still wonder when steps will be taken to regulate the carriage of dangerous cargoes by road and to clearly indicate the risks involved to passers-by and other road users.

Editor: B. W. C. Thacker

notes and news

NEW MEMBER

Long Ashrton R.D.C. Bris,tol H

APPOINTMENT

R. Thompson, Esq., Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Rotherham, has been appointed Chief Hre Officer.

RETIREMENT

L. H. Everieigh, Esq , Engineer and Surveyor, Pontefract. We wish Mr. Everleigh a long and happy retirement.

Glass Fibre Petrol Tanks

As from 28th July, 1972, statutory control over petrol tanks fitted to mot-or vehicles has been transferred from Seotion 2 of ,the petroleum Spiri,t (:Motor Vehicles etc.) Regulations 1929, ,administered by the Home Office, to ,the Motor Vehicles (:Construction rand Use) Regulations 1969, administered by the Department of Environment. This transfer is consistent with the Secretary of State for the Environment 's general responsibility f'Or regulating construction of motor vehicles.

The Motor Vehicle (Construction and Use) ,(:Amendment) CNo 3) Regulations 1972 (SI 1972, No. 987) make the following requirements :-

1. Petrol tanks on every motor vehicle firSlt used on or after 1st July 1973 and not manufactured before 1st February 1973 ,to be made of metal ,and to meet certain other requirements on posiil:ioning and ,to prevent leaks.

2. That petrol tanks on motor vehicles, irrespective of when the vehicles were first used, be so maintained 'uhat the tanks are reasonably secure against being damaged and are free from leakages

Unusual Accidents

A lorry driver, whilst sheeting his load, threw a rope over the Itop. A loop on the end of ,the rope fell over ,the head of a cyclist ra nd pulled him off his bicycle.

A friend drew up at a country filling station in his mini van. He got out of ,the van just in time to prevent the at:tendant filling up ,the van by putting ,the nozzle of the petrol pump into t he vent-ilat 'ion lid on ,the roof.

Hon. Secretary's Notes

Annual Conference, Hastings, 4th and 5th April, 1973

Final arrangements for ,the Association's Conference now being completed, and, together with the An General Meeting, will take place at The White Rock ;ua ilion, Hastings, on Wednesday and Thursday, 4th and Apr il, 1973.

The Conference will include the following papers : _ Local Government Re-organisation

J. E. Bolton, Esq., D.M.A., Clerk of the Barrow-u S R 1 D · t' C '1 h pon- oar ura ' IS nct ouncl w 0 was a member of th L Government Re-organisation Committee of th e R ocal Distl1ict Council'!; Associa,tion and a member of the W ural ing Group, under the Chairmanship of Mr. M Ae B which produced ,the ,recent report on manag ' a'IUS, structure of the new local authorities. ement and

The Robens Report Safety and Health at Work

G. H. Beeby, Ph.D ., B Sc., F.R.I.C , Chairman of ,th and member of the Robens Committee e B.S.I.

Petroleum and the Common Market

G. J. Jeacock, M.Sc., Ph.D., F.R.I.C., of the Home Office.

There will be anavtendance fee of £5 f nominated by a local authority and for Assoc.otr delegates . la e members nomma'ted by a member Company Or Organ-is t' members, individual Assooiate members a Officer members will not be required ,to pay such fee.n onorary

A civic recep,tion will be given ,to member b ' and Corpora,tion of Hastings on the eveningS0/ Mayor 4th 'and members are urged to bring their ladies order that the evening will be 'a successful one. to thiS m

Will all members who intend to be prese t ence please contact <the H;onorary at Conferdetails, e.g. brochure, time-table, hotel list t Y or further , e c.

A letter ,and attendance form have alread the Clerks of ,the member authorities i 't? been sent ,to ance of delegates. nVI, mg the at'tend-

DRAIN LINE LEAKAGES

By M. E. Smith, Esq., Senior Petroleum Inspector, G.L.C.

A petrol pump meter will measure both spirit and air or vapour :the last two to a lesser degree of efficiency. Thus ,to avoid the motorist having a quantity of air foistered upon him, a device known as an air separator is incorporated between the actual pump and the meter.

The air thus removed may be accompanied by quantities of petrol either in spurts or as a flow. Years ago a drain line to take the petrol back to the tank would have been incorporated. Today some pumps incorporate a drain line eliminator (or D.L.E.) so-called for obvious reasons. In many cases the D.L.E. forms part of the ,air separator casting but its primary object is to pass, usually by means of float valve, petrol back to the suction side of ,the pump. Air is not so passed because this would affect the efficiency of the pump, but it has to be disposed of. To permit air to escape the D.L.E. is fitted with a ,tube which terminates in a gauzed outlet in the open air. It will be apparent that the arrangement described above serves as a direct connection between the storage tank and the a'tmosphere. As far as I am aware 'Jnly one manufacturer of petrol pumps fits a non-return valve in the line to the suction side of the pump from the D.L. E. Gener,ally then any significant pressurisation of the storage tank can result in the emission of petrol from the D.L.E. or air separator vent.

In ,the past the D.L.E. vent was sited in or adjacent to the nozzle boot and on taller pumps this meant a 'termination of some 5 or 6 feet above forecourt level. With the current range of pumps ,this is no longer the case and 2 or 3 feet is a welcome bonus.

Recently there have been a number of incidents where petrol has been forced out of ,the D.L.E. vent during tank wagon discharge. Recalling that pressurisation of the tank may be t:he cause one is 'tempted to blame a blocked or inadequate storage tank vent pipe but ,this ,is rarely the case. A more likely cause arises from the arrangement of the pipes inside the tank.

P:trol passing down ,the fill pipe will tend to disperse hOrizontally at low level with the flow tending to be affected by 'the contour of the tank bottom. A suction pipe will be close to the fill and, depending upon its location, will Suffer from any surge or bounce generated as 'the petrol away from the fill. Any petrol forced up the suction lin '11 e WI be prevented from returning to the tank by the angle-check valve in the manhole chamber so tha,t a continued flow must fill <the D.L.E. chamber and eventually appear at the D.L.E. vent.

The amount emitted is generally small only a pint or two b t . , , u It may be ejeoted as a fine spray and thus tend to be dangerous. Even if not in spray form the emi,tted

petrol is a nuisance and will stain an otherwise immaculate pump casing. Such stains will not always indicate that the problem is present but may prove helpful.

The lowering of the D.L.E. vent orifice is not the only reason for the effect. There are other faotors which have aggravated the position. Firstly we have taller tank wagons to provide a greater head to propel petrol into the tank at greater velocity. Secondly, larger fill pipes permit an increase in momentum of petrol. Thirdly, 'industry has reduced the distance between the bottom of the tank and the fill pipe termination in an attempt ,to reduce dead storage and the liquid seal between the terminations of the fill and suctions have been reduced to the same end. The cumulative result is that the tendency for upsurge is increased.

We have a problem and some causes. Where is the cure?

One such will appear on the scene with thB possible amendment to Regulations which will permit driverattended delivery of petrol. To meet the requirement that the ,air separator of a measuring pump must be contrived to prevent spillage during the filling of a storage tank all pump manufacturers will incorporate a device ,to prevent liquid entering the D.L.E. vent line probably in the form of an additional float valve. But ,this is very much in the future.

On existing installations other remedies must be sought. The trouble could be cured by loading ,the ,angle-check valve. This is not recommended; it results in a loss of suction lirt and a tendency to overload the pump motor. A better way if: to impede the surge up the suction pipe. To do this a number of methods may be adopted. A baffle could be welded between the fiU and suction pipe terminations for a variety of reasons not very practical. An elbow directing flow away from the suction pipe and fitted to the bottom of the fill would have the desired effeot but how does one dip Ithe tank? and is the fitting of contents gauges warranted? An elbow screwed to ·the bottom of ,the suction and pointing away from ,the fill is another answer and a slight improvement but how does the petroleum officer prove the liquid seal?

The best solution to date is ,to fit ,a horizontal baffle plate to the bottom of the suction pipe. It can be supported by arms from a socket screwed to ,the pipe bottom. The plate needs to be approximately half the suction pipe's diameter from its (or the sock.;t's) end and ideally to be about double the external diameter of the suotion pipe. This latter dimension will be dependent upon the size of aperture in the man-lid and some success has been achieved with smaller plates. Incidentally, the plate will offer a bonus in preventing sludge being sucked into the suotion pipe.

SQUARE TANKS IN ROUND HOLES!

At Blackpool

By H. R. Melior, Esq.

The exercise innocently enough. A filling station with a large four storey showroom behind it had abandoned and slurry-filled four 1,000 gallon tanks, which were very near to the entrance to the showroom, and had installed four normal 3,000 gallon tanks further away from the building Then rthe premises changed hands and the new owner dedided ,that he wanted a further increase of 6,000 gallons to his storage capacity. The architect's problem was to accommodate some new tanks. There was only the forecourt and most of that was "full" of the abandoned slurry filled tanks the pumps and ,the newer, in use, 3,000 gallon tanks. The;e followed an interesting series of discussions which can be summarised into :-

Question: Could the four old 1,000 gallon tanks be replaced WIth new ones?

Answer: Yes, if they also installed off-set fills and manometers.

Question: h . d 6 000 Could larger tanks be put in to gIVe t e requIre , gallons?

Answer: , 6" d· t d 3 ODD's Yes, but 1,000 gallon tanks are 4 flame er as I ' id f 7' d· meter a fair amount 0 excava IOn a ongs e are 0 ten la , the building would be necessary.

Question: h. sums) We find that a rectangular tank with (After dOIng IS . . . I t t th f 4' 6" and of a sIze equlva en 0 e area a dep.th th 1 000 gallon cylindrical tanks would give occupIed y 5 600 gallons. Any objections? a storage capacI ,

of those "floPPY" paraffin tanks). It is a very (WIth VISIOns t-' Could you get a rectangular tank that unusual Sugges IOn. . h t d 10 would be of sufficient strength to WIt s an a p.s.l.g. test?

f t he discussion closed whilst we each

So that stage 0 made our own enquiries.

f Explosives Home Office, was our HJM Inspector 0 ' k Id . f . formation and Dr. G. J. Jeacoc e to Qbvious sourceho dIn uite a number of satisfactory rectangus that Jersey a q . . . P·d d h d f Petroleum SPIrIt storage. rovl e t e ular tanks use or h 10 I k of sufficient strengt to pass a p.s g. proposed d desirably, was constructed of i" steel hydrostatIc tes 'tion that could be raised. In addition there was no 0 lec I b Id I b than usual top concrete s a wou a so e a stronger required.

. f d the architect and in due course received

We In orme I d bI detailed drawings of a i" rectangu ar ou e compartvery k together with calculations on both the tank and ment tan , . h h C t· After clearance WIt t e orpora IOn engmeers, top cover.

the architect was advised and the four old slurry filled tanks were removed. We inspected the excavat'ion, the original outer 9" brick walls and ,the 9" concrete base and found them to be in excellent condition. Eventually came the day when "the 'tank", a double compartment job arrived. '

Now we have to admit that anything looking less like an underground type petrol tank we have yet to see. But it Was there, all in one piece. It had an outside depth of 4' 8" two very heavy looking manlids and measured 19' x Hi, 6" Rather unusual perhaps. .

Unfortunately we did not see them lowering it into th "hole" which measured 20' 2" x 11' 8" x 6' 6" deep understand there were exciting moments. They levelled ·t to the best of their ability, filled both compartments water and said, "It's ready for test now". I

We stood upon the tank with the tank installation eng· _ eer, feeling the vibration of every vehicle that passed aloIn the road, and discussed the application of a test. Undaunted by the fact that none of us had ever do one before, we borrowed a suitable hand-operated w t e pump, already installed in its bucket, from friends in water authority, tested out the pump by connecting it t e short length of steel piping, closed a,t one end and aIr Oda filled with water, gave a few pumps to inject further ,;:at y h· d t·fi d a er mto t e pIpe an • were gra I e to find we had a pressu f 90 . S· I re 0 p.s.l.g. mce we on y wanted 9!lb. in one compartm t and 100b. in the other, it seemed reasonable to assum this could well be a quick job. The pump was connec; d :t the manlid of the first compartment, which was I e dO . f I . h d a rea y brIm u WIt water, an we pumped and watched the gauge. The gallons of water In the pump bucket undoubtedly went mto the tank but the pressure gauge remained at Aft d t zero. er pumpmg m a secon wo gallons it stilI read ze d h· th ro an It was at t IS at some wag suggested that the gauge had a lower than When we first started. We tested the pump agam usmg the steel piping and came u ·th 90 P.SJ·gd· So h the compartment was up to t e ot er compartment but again could not bUild up any pressure.

Alternative methods seemed necessary so we arranged for two short standpIpes to .be prepared, one for use on each compartment. Each standpIpe was to be made up so that the pressure gauge would fit on the top with a wheel v I immediately below it. ·Lower there was to be a branch to act as a bleed whIch would be controlled by wheel valve and again, below this, a further branch, fitted with a wheel valve to which we could connect vertical lengths of piping which would give a head of water. We asked for 23' and 21' header pipes to give pressures of approximately 10 and 9! p.sJ.g. Two 15 p.sJ.g. pressure gauges with !Ib. graduations at !" intervals were to be used.

When everything was ready, water was fed into the 21' high pipe from a hose and, in the initial stages, the bleed was opened to prevent an air lock. When the pipe was full the gauge reading was steady at 71b. 9!oz. and not, repeat not, the expected 9!lb. Perhaps, we thought, the compartment walls, or the division wall, were flexing so we did a repeat performance with the 23' pipe and then found that the first compartment pressure had increased to 91b. l!oz., thus confirming our suspicions to some extent, whilst the second, with its 23' pipe, read 91b.

We are still not clear why we did not get the pressure we had anticipated. Maybe the tank was flexing, perhaps we were in the middle of a deep depression, or it could have been that our header pipes were not as high as we had requested. At the time we did not investigate any further: we were only too relieved that we had sufficient pressure to apply the tests

The wheel valves to the 21' and 23' header pipes were closed. The Home Office Model Code recommends a minimum of 15 minutes but we felt 100% increase justified after our earlier surprises. After 30 minutes neither gauge had varied so we announced both compartments satisfac-

tory and commenced to let off the pressure. At 8! P.s.i.g. we thought it might be interesting to find out how much water was required to make a difference of lIb., so we measured the water which came out as the pressure dropped from 8! to n p.s.i.g. and found it ,to be almost two gallons. None of this came from a header pipe.

The whole outfit is concreted over now and no one would know that there is anything unusual about the petrol station but somehow we do not think it will be twenty years before ullage tests are applied to that tank. And we do not think we are likely to go in for hydrostatic (or were they air and water) tests again either. Air or inert gas pressure tests with atmospheric pressure and temperature corrections for us every time.

We do understand, however, that quite a number of members, rumoured to be in the South, prefer water hydrostatic to air pressure tests. Since there are only two methods recommended by the Home Office Model Code and there have been articles on air pressure testing in The Bulletin and lectures on the subject at the schools, perhaps one or more of the hydrostatic champions could be persuaded to submit an article.

PETROLEUM FILLING STATION PLANNING

By John T. Trendell, D.P.A. (L'pool), M.I.T.S.A., Chief Inspector of Weights and Measures and Petroleum Officer, City of Southampton

In another context, planning has been defined as "caring for the future" Such a definition could well be applied to the planning (of petrol filling stations. Petroleum Officers have frequently been known to bring down wrath upon their predecessors for licensing, in days gone by, filling stations which are now recognised as being extremely hazardous. A iittle more thought and care in the past would have preserved the present day officer from many embarrassing moments when faced with applications for the relicensing of these installations.

For .the purposes of this paper, it is proposed to consider the planning operation under eight main headings, as fOllows :_

1.

Liaison with Other Bodies

Whilst the list of persons given below is not considered exclusive, or 'that each should be consulted on every occasion, it is, however, suggested that these are persons Whose views could directly affect the planning of a filling station :_

Local Authority Planning Officer, Local Authority Building Inspector or Building Surveyor, Local Authority Engineer and Surveyor-Highways and Sewers, Fire Brigade-Fire 'Prevention Officer, Inspector of Weights and Measures, The Site Archi'tect Petrol Company Petrol Company Sales Representative.

The Planning Officer will be concerned, as his title suggests, with .the planning aspect of the site and unless at least "outline planning permission" has been granted, is any useful purpose served in proceeding fupther. The Building Inspector will be involved in seeing that the buildings are constructed in accordance with the Building Regulations. The Engineer and Surveyor of the local authority will be concerned regarding access to the site from the adjacent road(s) and how surface water and foul sewage from the site will be adequately and safely disposed of. This officer will also be involved in the linking of the three stage interceptor of the main sewer (mentioned later in the paper). The Fire Prevention Officer of the Fire Brigade will, no doubt, be asked to advise on fire precautions generally and the most suitable type of extinguishers to be installed at the site. Both he, and possibly .the Building Inspector, will be concerned with :the issuing of ceptificates of escape from fire in accordance with the provisions of the Shops, Offices and Railway Premises Aot. The Inspector of Weights and Measures will be involved in Ithe design of the underground pipe, tank and valve systems so far as these may affect the accuracy of 'the measuring ins;truments to be installed. The Site Architect will be concerned that the finished job will be attractive, efficient in operation and complying with his client's instructions. The Petrol Company Engineer will be very much involved in the engineering and building works that will take place following the passing of plans. The Sales Representative of the petrol company will be able fO give some indication as to the type of dis-

pensing methods that the company propose to use, whether it be self-service, conventional .type operation or possibly one of ,the revolutionary systems now being introduced.

As a result of the discussions with each of the persons mentioned above, a detailed plan can be produced by the ArchEtect. Whilst Paragraph 2.1.1. of ,the Home Office Model Code recommends ,that a simple block plan will be sufficient for petroleum licensing purposes, it is suggested that this is totally inadequate for recording the sophisticated construotional details of the modern filling station to which the Petroleum Officer will, from time to time, need to refer.

2. The Proposed Site

When considering the suitability of the proposed site for a petrol filling station, some of <the following characteristics are worthy of investigation :Suggested minimum dimension of site40ft. depth, 65ft. width, What hazards are incorporated ,in adjacent land and buildings?

Proximity of the sHe ,to sea, estuarial waters or underground streams, Height of water-table in area, Nature of sub-soil, Levels of site.

Position of existing main serviceswater, gas, electricity, drainage, pipe lines ( L.P.G., petroleum spirit and other inflammables)

The nature of these characteristics will largely dictate the requirements of the Petroleum Officer as to ,the installation of underground tanks and pipelines, the lay-out of the drainage system and ,the location of the buildings.

3. Drainage and Spillage Protection

WIth ,the large quantities of petroleum spirit currently kept at modern filling stations, every precaution should be ,taken to prevent spillages of petroleum spirit finding their way into the public sewers and it is suggested ,that a threechamber petrol 'interceptor is a "must" on ,the modern filling station. An 'interceptor of ,the standard G.L.C. pattern will retain 580 gallons of petroleum spirit before the seal is broken, thus providing a very efficient safety and pollution barrier. The system of drainage should cover not only the serving areas but also the underground tank storage area and the whole linked to the interceptor. Other safeguards which can be taken ,to prevent outflow of spilled petroleum spirit to the street or surrounding property must include adequate kerbing a.nd gulleys at all cross-overs, the latter preferably fitted with cast iron grids.

4. Location of Tanks, Vent Pipes and Pumps

The Home Office Model Code, Paragraph 2.1.2. states, "A site should be selected for the tanks, pumps, etc. such that in case of fire adequate means of escape are provided for the employees of the station and the occupants of adjacent buildings". In this connection, the following points might well be considered:-

Tanks

Away from the site boundary.

Away from serving areas.

Suitable tanker standing position (6,500 gallon capacity tanker ,is 42ft. in length).

If tanks and pumps are loca,ted at a remote position, it may be necessary to install an impact valve at the dispense point.

Off-set fills

Often an essential feature in modern filling station design (not the danger once considered by many petroleum officers now ,that 4" fill pipes are used).

Suitable contents gauges must be installed in proximity to the off-set fill positions.

Insist upon a separate chamber for each off-set fill pipe and suggest that gauges are laid out in a similar pattern to the fill chamber manholes in order to prevent confusion during fining operations.

Vent Pipes

Model Code recommends at least 5ft. from boundary and 12ft. in height. Endeavour to secure vents of at least 15ft. in height.

If a building is used as a support for vent pipes, vent to at least 2ft. above the eaves but beware of windows and other openings in ,the building which may attract vapour expelled from the vent.

Pumps

Rigidly observe the "14ft. rule" of the Model Code. Ensure that pumps are protected from vehicles by kerbs of sufficient dimensions.

Pumps should not be sited too close to each other on islands failure to do this can produce operational dangers.

5. Electrical Installation

In the planning stage, the Petroleum Officer should be laying down specific requirements relating <to the electrical side of the -installation. The more obvious are as follows :All electrical cables should be fed through underground ducting with sufficient inspection chambers to faciHtate replacement of defective Hnes. Where ,the ducting enters a building or kiosk, provision should be made to seal the duoting to prevent the ingress of petroleum vapour resulting from forecourt spillages.

The master switch should be accessible as well 'as seen. This point of view does not accord with the Model Code but quite often on self-service sites members of the public will, in <the event of an emergency, be the only person avaHable ,to operate the master switch.

The position 01 the main switches should not be too far removed from the petroleum installation.

Provision should be made for an adequate system of lighting in the tanker delivery area (one lumen per square foot).

6. Location of Buildings

The Home Office Model Code in Paragraph 2.1.2. s,tates, "Wherever possible ,the filHng points, vents, pumps and

tank wagon stards should be so situated that an accumulation of petroleum spirit vapour is unlikely and sited at an adequate distance from any window of an inhabi<ted building. Except in respect of single storey service buildings any part of an -occupied building dangerously near any pump or openi:J.g to a storage tank should be so protected as to prevent spread of fire". In this connection, .the following points are worthy of consideration :-

Kiosks

Endeavour to keep them out of Division 2 areas. Heaters electrically operated tills and "smoking" produce too many problems.

Canopies

To be at least 10ft. 6ins. high if tankers are to manouvre under. If tanker position is in close prox.imity to canopy, beware of dangers to tanker from canopy lighting.

Buildings

Beware of windows and other openings if in close proximity to parts of petroleum -installation.

7. Operation

Whilst agreeing Ito the constructional details of the site on paper, .the Petroleum Officer should also be projecting his mind ahead to thE: day when the site will become operational. In this respect, ,the foIl owing points should be kept in mind:-

Check that hiG local authority's standard conditions of a licence will apply to this particular site and, if necessary, lay down special conditions.

Agree the scale of fire fighting equipment (see Model Code Paragraph 2.l.3.). He might suggest that this equipment be located at a central fire point weIl removed from the main hazard areas.

Agree the position of statutory notices.

8. Attended Self-Service

The majority of new fiUing stations being erected at the present time in urban areas are being designed for attended self-service operation. This ·type of installation presents its own problems enc1 the following additional points should be borne in mind m the design of stations of this type :-

Beoause of the economic considerations, design the station f.or one man (or woman) operation.

Ensure careful siting of pump and forecourt equipment so as to prevent the view of the controller being obscured.

For most practical purposes, the angle of vision over which the controller must keep surveillance, should not be greater than 120 degrees.

The distance between ,the furthest dispensing point and the controller should not be greater than 90ft.

Unless there are over-riding reasons against this, the control position should be separate from any adjacent T.B.A. shop and fitted wHh a payment hatch overlooking the forecourt area.

If the station is to operate at night, ensure that the control position is protected and that a telephone is available at this point.

In practice, ;t has been found that theinstaIlation of a "panic button" is preferable to the isolating switch mentioned in the Model Code.

It is not suggested that the points raised in this paper are the onlycnes which should be considered during the planning Sltage, there are many others, but those mentioned are ,the more obvious which ought not to be ignored. As a postscript, it might be opportune to quote the Petroleum Officer's golden rule, "ENFORCEABLE LICENCE CONDITIONS DEPEND UPON SOUND CONSTRUCTIONAL PRINCIPLES"

COUNCIL AT YORK

Report of a meeting held at York University on ThursdaYJ 28th September J1972

Present

The following members attended: R. P. Holdaway, Esq. (Chairman), Messrs. J. Beer, J. Birks, P. H. Cartwright, J. W. Frid, D. HaIl, S. W. D. Harris, G. H. Harvey, W. Hetherington, J. W. Hewison, K. C. Hughes, T. Kerr, K. McLeod, H. R. MeIlor, C. T. Peacock, R. E. J. Roden, J. Short B. W. C. Thacker.

Apologies

Apologies were received from E. V. Beeby and C. R. Peskett.

Minutes of Previous Meeting

The Minutes of the previous meeting (circulated) were accepted by the meeting.

Matters Arising

There were no matters arising.

Correspondence

The Honorary Secretary reported that he had had some correspondence with the Publicity and Public Relations Department of the County Borough of Hastings regarding the venue for the 1973 Annual General Meeting and that the Chairman would discuss this during his report.

Correspondence had been entered into with the Home Office regarding their reaction to the installation of G.R.P. underground tanks but that to date no reply had been received.

The Honorary Secretary further reported that he had had some requests from authorities not presently engaged in petroleum administration but who anticipated such involvement after local government re-organisation, for information concerning membership. It was agreed by the meeting that this matter be referred to the Constitution and Rules Committee.

A letter had been sent by the Honorary Secretary to the Honorary Secretary of the Cumbria Branc? a copy of the Rules of this Branch together with the Mmutes of the last meeting of the Branch. These had subsequently been received.

Chairman's Report

The Chairman reported that arrangements were proceeding in respect of holding the 1973 Annual General Meeting and Conference at Hastings. It was expected that would be similar to the Shrewsbury Conference mcludmg, possibly, three papers.

He further reported that from time to time the officers of the Association received invitations or requests to attend various meetings, etc., on behalf of the Association and in order that the position of officers travelling on such business should be clarified, he asked that the matter be discussed. (This matter was brought forward from the Honorary Secretary's Report).

After considerable discussion it was proposed by D. Hall, conded by R. E. J. Roden, that the Chairman, Viceand Honorary Secretary be authorised to finalise arrangements for the Conference at Hastings; this agreed. Secondly It was proposed by K. Hughes, was ffi f hA' seconded by J. Rewison, that any 0 cer 0 t e ssoclatlOn h is required to attend such meetmgs, etc., on behalf of 0Association should only do so after obtaining authority e the Chairman or Honorary Secretary. A claim for such rom es as may be incurred by an officer attending such expens meetings should be submItted the Honorary Treasurer men t only after such claim form had been endorsed by the Chairman. This was agreed by the meetmg.

Honorary Secretary's Report

The Honorary Secretary reported briekfl Y u o.n Advadnhced d . hl'ch had been held at Yor DIversity an a Semmar w .., f h . r to the CounCIl meetmg. He m ormed t e ended prIO b f '1 th t the Seminar had appeared to e success ul and Councl a . 1 hI that arrangements for it had gone y indicated that an appreciation m t e Bulletin" at a later date and that e wou e? 0 'sional balance sheet to the CounCil at Its next report a proVI meeting.

Honorary Treasurer's Report

this heading Mr. J. Hewlson raIsed a query on Under· 'd to officers when travelling on official busexpenses pal s considerable discussion on this matter and iness There wa d d b J H . . . 11 proposed by J. Beer, secon e y. eWlson, It waS fina Y nt expenses form be amended so ,that it agrees that the presye with the travelling expense provisions in the in every wa N t' 1 J . t C '1 f Conditions of Service -a IOna om ouncl scheme Authorities Administrative, Professional, TechLocad Clerical (purple book). This was agreed. nIcal an

Honorary Editor'S Report

The Honorary Editor reported that the costs of postage were such that he recommended an increase in prices for future orders for copies of the Association's Codes of Practice. After discussion it was proposed by D. Hall, seconded by R. E. J. 'Roden, that a charge of 35p be made in future for copies of this document. This was agreed.

The Honorary Editor drew members' attention to the fact that there remained only about 200 copies of the Codes of Practice and after some discussion it was agreed that a reprint would not be undertaken at the present time as it was hoped in the near future to carry out a revision of the Codes.

Report on the Meeting of the Reference and Legal Committee

Queries:

Present arrangements continue, it was noted fewer queries were being received.

Three-way Valves:

The trial installations in Birmingham were stilI under observation; some problems had arisen with operation and it was decided to keep the matter under review.

Yacht Marinas:

It is recommended that an ad hoc Working Party be set up under the Chairmanship of J. Hewison to produce a Code of Practice covering this type of installation.

Electrical Certificate:

The Commi,ttee had the benefit of the presence and advice of John Sharpe, Honorary Electrical Adviser, and a long discussion ensued based on queries and correspondence from various sources; the queries were principally concerned with the Certificate wording, Earth Loop Impedence Test, Testing Self-Service 'Low Voltage Systems and other related matters. John Sharpe was to arrange a meeting with the N.I.C. and E.C,A. to discuss amendments to the Certificate to meet, where necessary, questions raised; a meeting of the Associated Offices Technical CommiUee might be advantageous in order to explain the details and purpose of the Certificate.

It is necessary ;to emphasise that the Electrical Conditions in the Code of Practice do not apply to pre-1969 installations and the Certificate allows for this.

From the discussion ,it was evident that members of the Association made amendments and variations to the Eleotrical Certificate (and indeed the whole Code of Practice) sometimes wi,thout realisation of the full implication of amendments, thereby creating chaos and confus-ion and undermining the strength of the Association and destroying the aim of uniformity; the Committee were of opinion that the views and opinions of the N.I.C. and E.C.A., and Electrical Adviser should be heeded.

There were particular problems with regard to the testing of Self-Service Low Voltage Equipment; certainly it could be damaged by normal methods of testing and it was agreed to seek further advice and opinion of how this problem could be overcome.

Tank Testing:

The Committee discussed the range of tests available and in current use in ·a wide field of operation and decided that the tests were adequate and no changes were necessary at this point in time.

Emergency Procedures:

The Committee recommend the Council to publish in "The Bulletin", with an additional copy as an insert, the enclosed brief guidlines for emergency.

Tripartite Meetings:

It was considered that the frequency of these meetings should be increased and an effort made to arrange an early meeting; the Chairman undertook to make the necessary approaches.

After some discuss·ion by Council it was agreed that J. Hewison should chair a Working Party on yacht marinas; the Working Perty to consist of J. Hewison, C. R. Peskett plus two further members to be co-opted, and that any expenses incurred by ,this Working Party to be paid by the Association in the normal way. It was further agreed that the Committee's recommendations on emergency procedures should be printed ,in "The Bulletin". The report was accepted by the meeting.

Co-opted Members of Council

The Honorary Secretary reported a suggestion that a member of the HOine Office and a member of the Institute of Petroleum be cp· opted to the Council of the Associa'tion. It was agreed that this matter be examined by the Constitution and Rules Commictee who were asked to report back to Council at its next meeting.

Special General Meeting

The Honorary Secretary reported that arrangements had been finalised for the holding of the Special General Meeting of the Association at Barrow-upon-Soar.

Council were informed that Mr. J. E. Bolton, D.M.A., Clerk of the Barrow-upon-Soar Rural District Council who was a member of ,the Local Government Re-Organisation Committee of the Rural District Councils Association and a participant on the Working Group, the Chairman of which was Mr. M. A. Bain, would talk to members about local government re-organisation prior to the business of the meeting. In view of this and as a token of the Association's gratitude to Barrow-upon-Soar for providing the facilities for the meeting, it was agreed that the Chairman and Officers concerned with this meeting should offer the Association's hospitality to the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Rural District Council and its Clerk, Mr. Bolton.

The Chairman of ,the Association together with the Cha-irman of the Constitution and Rules Committee were authorised to draft the Council's motion which was to be placed before the Special General Meeting on 11th October, 1972.

Any Other Business

Under this item Mr. P. Cartwright raised the question of a lighting system imported from the continent which had been installed in a newly designed petrol pump in use in his area. It was decided that this matter should be referred to the Reference and Legal Committee and that Mr. Cartwright would contact the Chairman of this Committee.

Date and Venue for Next Meeting

It was agreed that this matter be left for the Chairman and Honorary Secretary to arrange.

The meeting closed at 5.15 p.m.

SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING

held at Barrow-upon-Soar, Wednesday, 11th October, 1972

The meeting was opened by Mr. S. Hagger, Vice-Chairman of the Barrow-upon-Soar Rural District Council, who welcomed the 66 members present. He expressed his authority's pleasure in being host to the meeting and also his personal interest in the subject of the meeting. Mr. Hagger, who remained for the morning session, made a number of contributions to the discussions on Local Government Reorganisation.

The main business during the morning session consisted of an interesting and enlightening talk on Local Government Re-organisation generally with particular reference in its later stages to the future of the petroleum administration. This was given by Mr. J. E. Bolton, D.M.A., Clerk of the Barrow-upon-Soar Rural District Council who was Local Government Re-Organisa,tion Committee of the Rural District Council's Association and a member of the Work-

ing Group, under 'the Chairmanship of Mr. M. A. Bains, which produced the recent report on management and structure of the new local authorities. His talk was followed by an ex,tremely interesting session of questions and answers during which Mr. Bolton gave members ,the benefit of his personal involvement in the -interesting and wideranging report.

At the conclusion of the session, Mr. R. P. Holdaway thanked Mr. Bolton for the excellence of his paper and the expert way in which he had dealt with ,the members' many questions. He also, through Mr. Bolton,offered the Association's sincere thanks to the Barrow-upon-Soar Rural District Council for the excellent facilities and hospitality which had been offered to the Association.

The meeting then adjourned for lunch.

At 2.15 p.m. the business meeting commenced with the Association's Chairman explaining the reasons for holding this Special General Meeting and in doing so he outlined the history of the Association from its early days as the West Midlands Petroleum Group until the present day. He ,informed members present that the Council of the Association was extremely aware of the faat that the Association's future was at the cross-roads and that in order to decide what direction it should take in anticipation of Local Government Re-organisation, the Council wished to submit a resolution to the meeting. The resolution was as follows:

"That this Special General Meeting is of the opinion that it is essential that the affairs of the Association for Petroleum Acts Administration be continued in such a manner that a strong and viable organisation will be available, capable of functioning in some form, after

Local Government Re-organisation is complete, and, therefore, instructs the Council of the Association to take all necessary steps to this end".

The motion was seconded by the Chairman of the Association's Constitution and Rules Committee, Mr. Denis Hall, who spoke strongly in favour of the resolution.

There followed a long discussion during which many questions were answered by the officers of the Association and during which three amendments were suggested but which were eventually withdrawn.

It was finally proposed by Mr. Clark, seconded by Mr. Hughes, ,that the motion be put. This was done and the motion was carried by 65 votes to 'one against.

There being no other business the meeting closed at 3.30 p.m.

BRANCH REPORTS

South-East Midland

A meeting of the Branch was held at Eton RD.C. Offices at Slough, on Thursday, 20th April, 1972.

Present

23 Members were present. Apologies for absence were received from Mr. Mann of Letchworth, Mr. F. L. West of Hertfordshire, Mr. M. V. Mathieson of Hitchin and Mr. Mulley of Aylesbury.

Minutes

The Minutes of the meeting held at the Council Chamber, Letchwol1th, on 14th October, 1971 were confirmed.

Election of Officers

The following officers were elected: Chairman

J. A. Fish of Hemel Hempstead Borough. Vice-Chairman

J. W. Gray of Herts. County Fire Brigade.

Secretary

R E. Dust of Oxford City.

Treasurer

R D. Hill of Oxford City.

Branch Representative to the Executive Council

W. Hetheringtonof Witney U.D.C.

Auditor

R Morgan, Chief Fire Prevention Officer, Oxfordshire.

Committee

Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Immediate Past Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. Chester, Eton RD.C. and Mr. Chambers, Eastern Gas Board.

Secretary's Report

The Secretary's Report was received and adopted.

Treasurer's Report

The Treasurer's Report was received and adopted.

Report of Representative to Executive Council

The Representative's Report was received and note taken of his remarks concerning the Executive Council's awareness of the problems which might arise on re-organisation of Local Government. It was noted that a Summer School would be arranged in 1972.

Branch Rules

It was resolved that the Branch Rules as amended by the Secretary be approved and sent to the Executive Council for confirmation.

Address

Mr. David Chapman of the Mine Safety Appliance Co. Ud, gave an address and demonstration of the operation of the various models of the Company's appliances. He drew particular attention to the fact that with the earlier models it was possible, if they were used for sampling vapour of petrols containing Tetra Ethyl Lead, for the filament to become "poisoned" by a coating of lead oxide which would render it ineffective. In the case of the Model 5 however, it was arranged for the filament to operate at a higher temperature which burnt off the lead oxide. Earlier models may still be used with safety but inhibiter filters must be fitted which will prevent "poisoning" of the filament. A yellow spot on the filament will indicate that it is designed to operate at the higher temperature and so render inhibiter filters unnecessary. He also impressed upon members the importance of watching the meter dial all the time. If used in an atmosphere over the higher explosive limit it is possible ,that thE' meter, after registering the explosive mixture, will then return to zero since the lack of oxygen will render the atmosphere non-explosive.

He also stressed the importance of assuring that the flash-back arrestors in the instruments were in good order. If 'the aspirator bulb fills extremely slowly it is a sign that the arrestors need replacing. If it fills immediately you have forgotten to put them in!

Mr. Honour of St. Albans proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Chapman which was carried with acclamation.

Petrol Tanker Parks

Mr. Pape of Eton RD.C. asked for members' views on the recent Home Office Circular asking for Local Authorities to set up tanker parks in their areas. Most members took the view that they were reluctant to ask their Authorities to go to ,the expense of providing such parks without evidence that they would be used since, at the moment, very little evidence had been forthcoming from enquiries which had been made.

Sub-standard Licensed Premises

Mr. Chester of Eton RD.C. reported on the steps taken by his Local Authority to deal with several sub-standard petrol filling stations il' his area. He stressed that, in his view, it was very important to give a licensee two or three years' notice, by a sPecial condition in his licence, that it was intended to discontinue the special dispensation which allowed his store to be licensed notwithstanding the fact that it did not comply with local conditions. This notice would allow him time to appeal if he so desired.

Petroleum Containers

Mr. Horne of Hemel Hempstead produced a cardboard container lined with tin foil which his staff had found being distributed in ,the building trade in his area. These contained a sealing ccmpound which was in fact a petroleum mixture. He was no<t at all sat'isfied with a petroleum mixture being distributed in such a container and asked the Home Office for advice. He subsequently received a telephone call to fay that, in the opinion of the Home Office officials, the c[,ntainer would comply, and no objection should be raised <to their continued use.

Local Government Re-organisation

A general discussion took place on Local Gover.nment .Reorganisation, but it soon became apparent tha't with so information available regarding the allocation of !unctl?nS and boundaries, it was pointless to continue the diSCUSSIOn.

Next Meeting

It was agreed that the da'te, venue and business of the next meeting be left to the Chairman and Secretary.

Mr. Gray of Hertfordshire Fire Brigade proposed a vote of thanks to Eton RD.C. for their very generous hospitality which was carried with acclamation.

Wessex & South Wales

A meeting of the Branch was held art Stokefield House, Castle Street, Thornbury, on Monday, 16th October, 1972.

Present

23 members, 1 irvited guest, 7 representatives of the Esso Petroleum Co.

Apologies

The Secretary submitted a list of 13 members who had sent their apologies.

Minutes

The Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held at Bristol on 17th April, 1972 had been circulated with the Agendawere taken as read, approved and signed by the Chairman.

Matters Arising out of Minutes

The Secretary and Chairman drew attention ,to the reasons for convening the meeting at Thornbury. The Chairman asked for the approval of members for conveyance of thanks to the Chairman of the Thornbury RD.C. and his Council for the hospitality and facilities which had been made available to allow of the holding of the meeting, and these were unanimously approved.

Correspondence

The Secretary reported receipt of a communication from Chief Fire Officer D. J. Davis, Esq., M.B.E., Q.F.S.M., of Merthyr Tydfil Fire Brigade notifying him of the fact that sub-Officer Haggett had now been promoted to the rank of Station Officer. The Chairman congratulated Station Officer Haggett 'On his promotion and expressed his and .the Branch's appreciation of the assistance and contribution which Sta'tion Officer Haggett had made to the usefulness of the work of the Branch. Station Officer Hagget: suitably

replied

The Secretary reported receipt of correspondence which he had had with the National Secretary arising out of the last Minutes, concerning certain aspects relating to the sale and storage of petroleum spirits, and he has informed me that the matter had been referred to the Chairman of the Legal and Reference Committee.

The Secretary reported receipt of correspondence and discussions which he had had wi,th the Secretary of the West Midland Centre concerning a visit which his Branch were making to the Fire Service Training School at Mortonin-the-Marsh, on 17th October, which resulted in 10 members of the Branch being enabled to join the meeting.

The Committee received a letter from A. F. J. Webb, Esq., Surveyor to the Borough of Bodmin, Cornwall, concerning the circumstances involving driver controlled night deliveries of gas and fuel oil to depots. The circumstances involved in a particular case were that the driver of the vehicle was given an amount of oil to deliver and a key which was supposed to fit a particular lock on an inlet valve. Apparently the key fitted more than one lock and in consequence 1he tanker delivered 1,000 gallons of gas oil into a tank only capable of taking 300 gallons. The excess of 700 gallons was discharged through rthe breather pipe to storm drains and water courses. Members appreciated that this did not strictly come within the purview of Petroleum Officers but as it appeared to be of general interest to members very considerable discussion took place on the problems which it raised. Members appreciated that this is a fairly general practice in respect of fuel oil. Some felt that the firm or depot representative should be required to be in attendance, but Ithere could be implications in respect of domestic deliveries. Both Mr. Barnes of Cardiff and Mr.

Adams of Swindon quoted activities involving their officers in administering the "Conveyance 'Regulations" by visiting depots and garages and examining records. They had taken cases of failure to properly maintain such records, and activities in this line frequently led to greater care at the depots in respect of all their activities. The Chairman stated .that in his district night deliveries of petroleum are only allowed in special individual cases. The Secretary reiterated the point that the offence was one of pollution, not danger. Subsequent speakers were Messrs. Jones of Newpor,t, Storey of Bath, Lewis of Cheltenham, Rummens of Thornbury, Chaffe of Dursley, making the points that it was not striotly a problem for our Association, that Local Authority enforcement of the Conveyance Regulations in respect of petrol might make itself felt in respect of the delivery of fuel oil, the cost of clearing up the sewers and water courses and the resultant fine might be heavy enough to deter future similar happenings. At the conclusion it was resolved that Secretary send copies of the correspondence to the Secretary and appropriate Ministry Departments.

The 'Secretary drew attention to ,the issue of Circular No. 94/72 by the Department of the Environment concerning a publication by the Oil and Water Industries Working Group endtled 'Inland Oil Spills-Emergency Procedures".

Branch Representative's Report

Mr. S. W. D. Harris, Gloucester R.D., Branch Representative addressed the meeting on the outcome of a Special Meeting convened by the Association and held at Barrowupon-Soar.

After a general discussion on the problems arising OUlt of Local Government Re-organisation, the meeting had been addressed by the Clerk of Barrow-upon-Soar on "The Bains Report" entitled "The New Local Authorities. Management and Structure". There had been 80 meetmgs of this Special Committee and it was recommended that all officers should either see or obtain a copy. Evidence had been taken from many authorities. It was intended ,that two tiers of local authorities should be formed, that of County Councils and Local Authorities, and that in future each should be autonomous. At the last moment, however, this position had been weakened to allow functions on an Agency basis.

A Borough can apply for Agency powers but these would only last five years and then may be lost for good for. there was no right of appeal. The view was expressed that m the rush and hurry of forming the new organisation some County Councils may be ready to give Agency powers.

The view was expressed that the National Association is ,at a cross-roads. They are faced wi,th (a) to continue as at present (b) to continue >in a modified form (c) to disband the Association. In the future there will only be approximately 70 authorities to administer Petroleum functions. From enquiries which have been made it would appear likely that the responsibility will be about equally divided between the Fire Service and the Weights and Measures Department. All being County Council departments and it appeared probable that each County Council would leave it with the service which has been doing it satisfactorily.

The National Association, Special Meeting, resolved that: "That this Special General Meeting is of the opinion that it is essential that the affairs of the Association for Petroleum Administration be continued in such manner that a strong and viable organisation will be available, capable of functioning in some form after Local Government Re-organisation is complete, and, therefore, instructs the Council of the Association to take all necessary steps to this end".

The meeting concluded with a request that Branches be asked to expre,>s ,their views.

In subsequent discussion which followed this address, the following points were made by various members. Where Public Health Inspectors or Building Inspectors are predominantly engaged on Petroleum duties, the County Council owe the person a job. That this Association has been of benefit to members of a variety of professions. Mr. Barnes of Cardiff stated the Government are going to issue a document on Agency arrangements. Weights and Measures ,Association are not against Agencies but this might be restricted to 18/20 of the larger towns. Messrs. Blackwell, Harris and others spoke on the problems.

It was resolved that this Branch Support the National Resolution.

After lunch the meeting re-convened to hear an address and discussion by Mr. Keith Sherwood of Esso Pe,troleum Co. Ltd., on:

(a) Modern trends in petroleum storage and sales or distribution.

(b) A look into the fUlture in respect of petroleum storage, usage, etc.

In introducing himself Keith Sherwood referred to the fact that he was one of the founder members of >the original West Midland Branch, was a regular lecturer at Attingham Park, and York University Seminars and had been awarded Honorary Membership of our ASSOciation. His experience had extended over 20 years in petroleum engineering and he outlined the origins and development which had taken place. In 1924 the Anglo-American Oil Co. had introduced electric pumps for the distribution of petrol and this type had continued iI': use until 1939. In post war years this ,type of pump had been superceded by the computer type Veda head. The pumps generally were reliable and effective, but they not perfect a.nd had a 'slip' of some 300 gallons per of sales ThiS was a loss to ,the industry which techmques were 'trymg to overcome. Development now was of delivery with sonic or supersonic controls. So far as storage was concerned the view was expressed that glass fibre tanks will come into general use. He detailed a number of the original problems which had already been ?vercome. W!th ,the i?to. use of this type of 'tank It was essential that dipsticks Will go out of use In these circumstances gauges will be needed of an type to those ,that are at present available. It will be 'round ,that the supply companies will be interested in the 'ullage' of the tanks. Magnetic tapes will eventually record sales and stock. One could see from this the possibility of eventually one main central petrol station controlling a number of unmanned satelite stations.

Messrs. Harris, Davis, Barnes and Clarke, took part :!mong with others, in the subsequent discussions from which it emerged that the submersible pump only took seven minutes to change and cost £180 each. The considerable advantage of off-set filler pipes and the absolute need for gauges which were far more accurate than the present ones. It was stated that in Sweden 50% of reta'il sales are from unmanned sites.

At the conclusion of the meeting on a proposition by O. W. Barnes of Cardiff, a unanimous vote of thanks was expressed to the EssoPetroleum Co., both for .the enjoyable hospitality and the attendance of their various technical officers, and particularly the talk of Mr. Keith Sherwood, all of which had led to such a successful meeting.

South-East Midland

A meeting of the Branch was held at Hemel Hempstead on Wednesday, 25th October, 1972.

Present

20 members were present. Apologies for absence were received from : Messrs. R H. Mann of Longworth U.D.C., Chester of Eton RD.C., Charles of Bishops Stortford U.D.C., Walker of Aylesbury Borough, West of Hertfordshire.

Minutes

The Minutes of the meeting held at Slough on Thursday, 20th April, 1972 were confirmed.

Discussion on Re-organisation

Mr. Heatherington, District Representative to ,the Executive Council, informed members of what had ,taken place at the Special General Meeting held at Barrow-upon-Soar Wednesday, 11th October, 1972. He said that the meetmg had before it the following resolution:

"That this SpEcial General Meeting is of the opinion that it is essential the affairs of the Association for Petroleum Acts Administration be continued in such a manner that a strong and viable organisation will be available, capable of functioning in some form after Local Government Reorganisation 'is complete, and, <therefore, instructs the Council of the Association to take all necessary steps to this end".

He stated thac ,the motion had been carried and most people had supported H. He also said that aJ.though ,the number of Authori.ties would be drastically reduced, the Association would still have much to offer as he felt the Acts would be enforced by officers of many different professions. Hs envisaged that the subscription would have to be raised to about £30 or £40.

The Secretary, R E. Dust, spoke against the said he could not really see a place for ,the after 1st April, 1974 since, it would appear, In future petroleum Will be enforced either by the Fire BrIgade or by the Weights and Measures Department. Since both these disciplines had .their own organisation designed to secure uniformity in enforcement whichever way it went he could not see a place for an such as our Association. The Fire Brigade have their own training schemes for

securing uniformity in enforcement and the Weights and Measures Departments have their own Institute and, indeed, have a petroleum panel and claim they are the only organisation which holds an examination and ,issues a diploma 'in Petroleum Acts enforcement. Following a long discussion it was resolved that the Association should continue as a viable body up to at least March, 1974.

The Chairman drew attention to the General Meeting resolution, in particular the words "instructs the Council of the Association to take all necessary s<teps". He wanted to know what steps they were taking. The Secretary was instructed to find out.

Time and Place of Next Meeting

It was agreed that the next meeting be held at Hertford and that Mr. Platt, Senior Fire Prevention Officer for Hertfordshire, be invited to speak on "Emergency Action on Highways Involving Petroleum Spirit".

East Midland

A meeting of the Branch was held at The Guildhall, Nottingham, on Monday, 30th October, 1972.

Present

The Chairman of the Branch, Mr. M. T. Lucas, thirty-three members and two visitors.

Apologies

Twenty apologies were received.

Minutes

The Minutes uf the Annual General Meeting held at the Civic Centre, Scunthorpe, on Thursday, 11th May, 1972 were confirmed.

Membership

There were two applications for ordinary membership and two for associate membership which were submitted and approved.

Report of Branch Representative

The Branch Representative gave his report on the proceedings of the Council. He -informed members that .the Council had decided not to hold an Advanced Seminar in 1973 in view of Government Re-organisation, but it had agreed to support the Northern Education Committee if it wished to organise its own Petroleum School. The Branch Representative was able to report that Ithe Northern Education Committee had in fact decided to hold a Petroleum School in September 1973, at Lancaster University.

Members showed particular interest in the report issued by the Council on its recommenda,tions for Emergency Procedures for incidents involving Petroleum Spirit and other Flammable Liquids. After several petroleum officers had reported on their own experiences relating to serious incidents within their own authorities members realised the importance of knowing exactly what role a petroleum officer should take whenever such incidents occurred. It was then agreed that a Special Meeting of the Branch should be arranged and that representatives of the Fire Brigade, Police and Oil Companies should be invited to relate and discuss their own responsibilities.

Special General Meeting

The Branch Representa·tive reported on the Special General Meeting of the Association which he had attended at Rothley, Leicester, on Wednesday, 11th October, 1972. After members had been told that the meeting had approved the resolution to the effect that the Association should continue in its present form pending Local Government Reorganisation, 'Opinions were expressed as to who would carry out Petroleum Administration when the new authorities were formed. I.t was emphasised that in this modem age petroleum storage and distribution continued to increase and it was extremely impor.tant that uniformity in Petroleum Administra'tion must continue t'O be the ultimate aim of any new auth'Ority in the interests of both the licensee and the oil companies. Accordingly it was of the opinion 'Of members that since efficient Petroleum Administration must be the aim of any new authority, it was essential that experienced petroleum officers must be engaged on a full-time basis.

Date and Place of Next Meeting

It was agreed that an invitation extended .tQ the Branch by Hunting Industrial Plastics Ltd., Wymeswold Aerodrome, Burton-'on-the-Wolds, near Loughborough, be accepted.

Address

At the afternoon session the Chairman introduced Mr. T. L. Seaman, Tokheim Corporation U.K. Division, whQ gave a most interesting talk entitled "Submerged Pumps and Installation". Mr. Seaman, with the help 'Of slides, described in great detail .the technical construction 'Of a submerged pump. He said that the pump was of the ,three-stage centrifugal type developing a pressure 'Of 50 p.s.i. when driven by an electric motor mounted directly above the pump and kept cool by the surrounding fuel. He explained a simple device to eliminate air and vapour which was incorporated in I1:he pump and obviated the need 'Of the usual airseparater unit. Mr. Seaman went on ,tQ show how each pumping system contained a leak detector valve and a fail-safe anti-electrical device used on each pump to eliminate electrical hazards during dismantling operations. He claimed that because there were few moving parts, the Hfe 'Of the pump was equal tQ .the normal life expectancy of an underground tank. Mr. Seaman said that to anyone who might doubt the efficiency and safety of these submerged pumps he could 'only say that they had been successfully used in the United States of America for the las't twenty years.

Mr. Seaman then explained hQW installation and running costs could be reduced on service stations by .the use of submerged pumps. He described the various ways in which submerged pumps could be used in cQmplex pumping systems, where he claimed that one submerged pump could supply fuel for up to six dispensing units. He said that the servicing of such pumps was both simple and economical.

During the dlscussiQn whioh followed there were many questions 'Of a technical nature which Mr. Seaman suitably dealt Several members did show particular concern regarding the adequacy of the normal 10 p.s.i. pressure test on pipe lines carrying fuel from a submerged pump capable 'Of 50 p.s:i. pressures. Af.ter several 'Opinions had been

expressed it was agreed that the matter should be referred to the Council or the Associa'tiQn.

A vote 'Of .thanks was given by Mr. C. W. Howkins, Grantham, who told Mr. Seaman how important it was in a period 'Of great change to keep up with modem techniques 'and that his talk had certainly helped members '1'0 dQ this.

Tea was then taken and Mr. H. BQQth, BarrQw-up'On-SQar Mr. G..C. Cartwright and NQttingham CorporatIOn rQr the hospttaHty and facilities prQvided at the meeting.

South Eastern

The General Meeting 'Of the Branch was held in the Council Chambers, Godalming, Surrey, on Thursday 2nd March, 1972. '

Present

Chairman Mr. H. T. E. Jackson and 34 members.

Apologies

ApolQgies for absence were tendered 'On behalf of 12 bers. mem-

Minutes of the last Meeting

The of Ithe last me.eting held on 4th November 1971 avmg already been Circulated were taken as re ' confirmed as a CQrrect record and signed. ad,

Finance

The Treasurer, Mr. J. E. Hay presented a stat . ' ement of accounts for the year, which showed the Branch f d have a credit balance of £152. The Treasurer . utnd s tQ pOlO e out that the large balance WQuld be required fQr pay h C S ments fQr t e ourse at urrey Umverslty and did not re . ' present the true net balance. The meetmg unanimously . agreed to receive and adopt the statement 'Of account as s b . u mltted.

Branch Chairman's Remarks

The Chairman cQmmented on the success of th B h e ranch 'Over t e past years and thanked members for th . and attendance at the meetings held The CQ' elr SUpPQrt the Branch had been very well and suurses run by ppor.ted both delegatbes to Tthhe Course and by the Lecturers and CQmmI ee mem ers. e present uncertainty as to th f th A . t· II·t e ' uture 'Of e ssocla Ion m a 1 s activIties was giving so d t th· t· me concern an a IS pOlO ID time It was a little diffic It . ' either the future 'Of the Association 'Or the nU dto eeSQJfUdhge te Branch and members durmg the interim perl·od Wh h b 'atever c anges came a out through re-organisation I·t w . I h as essentla t at the work of the ASSOCiatIOn should co Th h . . n.:mue. e C airman concl,uded by thankmg the officers of th B h d b f' th C e ranc an mem ers '0 ' e omml'ttee for their support and h I durmg the year. e p

Election of Branch Officers and Committee

a short discussion ,the Branch unanimously deCided to re-elect en bloc the Chairman Mr H T E the present Branch officers and the Br;nch Committee, to serve for a further period.

Branch Representative to the Association's Council

It was unanimously agreed that Mr. J. Hewison (Havant) should cont:inue to act for a further year as the Branch Representative on the Council of ,the Association.

Mr. Hewison was thanked for his services in ,the past as Branch Representative and in reply thanked members for their confidence in him and gave a short resume of the major items being considered by the Council at the moment.

Address

The Chairman 'introduced to Members Mr. H. Martin, the Transpol"t Regulations Adviser of Shell International Chemical Company, who gave members a detailed and absorbing talk on the various aspects of ,transporting and handling of inflammable substance.

Mr. Martin referred to existing and proposed legislation and regulations, labelling, Codes of Pract:ice, explanatory literature and information available on this subject, and highlighted particular aspects and difficulties especially those experienced by personnel involved in incidents where the type and effect of substance in course of transpor:t was not precisely known.

At ,the close of his talk Mr. Martin was warmly thanked by the Chairman of the Branch, these thanks being endored by the members present.

The Chairman introduced to the meeting Mr. J. Short (Paisley) attending .the meeting in his capacity as Chairman of the Association. Unfortunately, due to traffic delays, Mr. Short was late in arriving at the meeting, but nevertheless expressed his pleasure at being present at the Branch meet-

ing, and referred to the part played by the Branch in the very early days of the Association and its emergence as a National Body. The Association had, since its formation, grown both in numerical strength and effective strength in all sect:ions of petroleum administration, and it was hoped that this strength would continue and increase up to and through Local Government Re-organisation.

In reply to the Association's Chairman the Secretary expressed the appreciation of ·the Branch to Mr. Short for making the long journey from Scotland and referred to the close links between the S.E. Branch and Scotland.

Petroleum Technology Course

The Secretary outlined arrangements for .the Course at Surrey University; all available places had been taken up and it was hoped ,that the Course would prove both successful and fruitful.

Open Discussion Tanker Parking

Following the circular concerning the problem of tanker parking areas, it was reported that further information was being sought on this whole question and a statement would appear in a Bulletin in due course.

Emulsifiers

Information was given to members on the use of and availability of various emulsifiers readily available on the market. Instances were reported where these emulsifiers had proved to be of very great value in dealing with spills and emergencies.

Clean-up Call over Garages

Reprinted from THE NEWS, 24th October, 1972

The time had come for ,the public to demand .and petrol companies to help _ a dl'ive to clean up untIdy garage and petrol stations throughout Britain, I'oad ·and garage propl'ietors were told .at the motoring symposIum.

Said Mr. B. J. Earl, National Market Devel?pment manager: "There is no reason why a petrol sta,twn should not be landscaped, .tidy and clean.

"Frequently, petrol stations are sited ·in attractive stretches of countryside and in pleasant parts of our ,towns. Alas, frequently, dozens of signs, advertisements and streamers ruin the appearance of the locality in which they are situated.

"I commend E. number of petrol companies which have

already .tried to persuade their agents to clean up their petrol stations. I hope, however, that they will all do much more to see that this is done.

"I hope that some of the amenity societies that now abound could consider .the establishment of some a.ppropl'iate environmental award to the petrol station which is most pleasant ,t.) ,the eye and the most in harmony with its environment.

"Perhaps, too, the public could go out of its way to see that petrol stations and garages which do care and take trouble are thOf:e that 'attract the most custom, and that that :those with forecourts that scream at you as you approach should be 'those that attract the least".

PETROL MARINAS

B. J. W. Hewison, Esq., Havant, Hants.

Due to the rapid and continuous growth in the popularity of boating as a sport and pastime a problem has arisen in coastal areas hi supplying fuel to the various types of vessels used, from large racing power boats with a tank capacity of 100 gallons to small dinghys with a 1 gallon tank attached to an outboard motor.

If the marina is to be shore based the problems obviously are not so great and the existing conditions of licence will cover most points with the probable exception that due to the rise 'and fall of .the tide ,the pump operator may not be able to control or even see both the pump and the nozzle at the same time (tide variations of between 14 and 20 feet are quite normal).

However, if the marina is to be of :the floating ·type many problems m'aY 'arise depending on the type of vessel used, and its location.

The practice of converting an old hulk into a marina should, if possible, be discouraged for seldom can this be satisfactorily achieved and a purpose made vessel of the pontoon type ;s preferable.

It must be remembered that if the vessel is normally moored in the tideway it will most likely have to be ,towed at regular intervals to a jetty or wharf for refuelling and it may be that a licence will be required for each 'place', which could involve more than one licensing authority.

In addition to tthe normal Conditions of L·icence it is suggested that all or some of .the following additional conditions may be necessary where appropriate, depending on the ·type of vessel.

Special Conditions

1. All parts )f the vess'el to be kept and maintained as provided in the Principles of Construction. No alterations to the vessel to be made without the written permission of the licensing authority.

2. When moored in the tideway at least two operators to be present during fuelling opera'tioDs.

3. No unauthorised persons to be allowed access to the vessel.

4. Petrol and fuel oil must not be dispensed during the hours of darkness.

5. All persons allowed on board to wear rubber soled shoes.

6. No smoking shall be allowed on 'any part of the vessel.

7. The vessel should be secured ,to a mooring of sufficient strength to prevent dragging.

8. The crew of the vessel must satisfy themselves before dispensing petrol or fuel oil that ,there are no naked flames or lights on board vessels alongside.

9. All tools or other ·such equipment to be used on the vessel to be of non-ferrous material.

Principles of Construction

1. The station should be sited in such a posillion ,that no part will ever at 'any state of tide rest on the bottom. If shore-secured, no buildings should be within 14 feet of the vessel. If not permanently secured to shore, installations to have mooring arrangements to the satisfaction of licensing authority.

2. The storage tanks should be securely fixed to the main framework of the vessel.

3. Fuel oil ,tanks and petroleum spirIt tanks in hull should be separated by ·sui,table screen(s).

4. If vessel is registered at Lloyds, a Surveyor's Certiificate should be provided for the licensing authority.

5. A pressure test on all tanks and pipe lines, waste oil tanks, etc., to be supervised by a licens'ing authority at works of constructor. In addition wet tests should be carried out in situ after completion of the installation.

6. If any type of generator is used on board, it shall be sited to the satisfaction of licensing authority and housed in a special compartment suitably sealed.

7. If shore-based electric power and lighting supplies are used as the main supply, distribution panels, swi,tches, etc., should be flameproof or sited in a sealed compartment to the satisfaction of licensing authority. If a .gene.rator is used, Hghlling for mooring and navigatlOn IJgnts to be ·taken from special storage batteries.

8. All. electric power, lighting, heating and cooking fittIngs, etc., on vessel to be of flameproof type.

9. To prevent ,the discharge of petroleum products into the harbour or tideway, special petrol spillage tanks used in conjunction with vented collection boxes should be provided.

10. An adequate fender should be provided throughout length and breadth of vessel made of material satisfactory to ,the licensing authority.

11. No metal may be used as shore, vessel, or boat moorIng. deVIces, except :that ,if a bottom mooring of concrete IS used, a metal mooring chain may be employed.

12. Suitable notices shall be provided requesting any vess:l, ?oat, etc., ?ot to come alongside for of WIthIn 14 feet, 'Ifany naked light or flame is exposed on the vessel. 'No Smoking. Switch off Engines when Re-fuelling' notices to be provided and s,ited to the satisfaction of licensing authority.

13. If in the Hdeway,a boat must be prov.ided for InSpectlOn of vessel by officers of licensing authority, or other statutory officers or other authorised visitors.

14. Measuring instruments shall comply with all recognised safety, etc., specifications; and should be fitted with automatic closing delivery nozzles to prevent overfilling of fuel 'tanks.

15. Fire-fighting appliances to be provided to the sa-Usfaction of ,the licensing authority.

16. If the station is moored in the tideway, adequate and satisfactory arrangements should be made with the licensing authority as to me1thod of re-fuelling .the station and notice of each re-fuelling operation should be given to the licensing authority if required.

17. A master isolation switch ,to be provided on vessel to cut off lighting and power supplies to measuring instruments. If vessel is shore moored a suitable and convenient isolation switch also <to be provided on

shore. Both switches to be indicated by suitable notices.

Quite obviously before a licence is granted each marina, be it shore based, shore moored or tideway moored, must be viewed separately and judged on its mer1ts and only those special additional condItions of licence and principles of construction thought necessary, applied.

However, due to their special nature, staff needs and Hmited seasonal use it is thought doubtful if the marina can ever be a financial success and it is suggested that the main purpose for their existence apart from giving a service in a limited sphere -is jots value as 'an advertisement for a brand of petrol.

This being so, a 'rash' of marinas throughout the coast Hne is not expected.

TREND TO FEWER, BUT BETTER, PETROL STATIONS

Reprinted from THE NEWS, 24th October, 1972

By the end of next year ,there will be fewer petrol filling stations in Britain than there were before World War 11, a marketing planning expert predicted.

But the average through-put of stations had risen from about 23,000 gallons a year in 1938 to about 121,000 gallons today, said Mr. D. M. R. Kersley when he addressed the National Benzole company's ,third presentation on motoring developments, this time focused on the Wessex Region.

By the end of 1972, he forecast, the number of petrol stations would have dropped to 34,531, despite the fact that the total motor spirit market had risen by more than 440 per cent in the past 34 years.

"For the future, this dramatic .trend will continue at an even faster rate", he declared.

"Today's motorists will not tolerate old-fashioned facilities and tend to be attracted only to modem premises which can offer up-to-date facilities, in clean and with quick, efficient service. More often than not,lt is self-service that attracts them.

M-Way Network

"By 1975 ,it may well be that more than half of the total sales of motor spirit will be through self-service stations".

The Solent area he said would become one of the heaviest in traffic 'density ,the country after Britain's entry into the Common Market. And linking of the region with ,the motorway network "must noW be only a matter of time".

Container and roll-off ferry serv-ices were expanding in Southampton anc: Ithe number of motor vehicles passing through rose from about 150,000 in 1964 to about 420,000

in 1971. Container traffic was expanding even more ,rapidly. with about 350,000 units expected to arrive in the port dur.ing 1974.

Over the next five years, predicted Mr. Kersley, the total energy market would grow by about 18 per cent but the demand for oil products in this period would rise by about 30 per cent.

This meant an increase of 27 million tons of oil over the next five years to satisfy the market, which compared with a predicted increase for natural gas of 22 million tons (oil equivalent) and eight for nuclear power.

Resources

Over the same period, coal demand was expected to decrease by 22 minIon tons (oil equivalent).

"Thus, the need for oil and the resources to produce and distribute it is rising at a pace faster ,than that of the entire energy market" he commented.

Motor vehicles currently in use 1n BrHain totalled 15 million, compared with ,the 1950 figure of 4.4 minion. By 1977 it was expected to rise to 17 million.

Between 1960 and 1970, traffic grew at an average 6.3 per cent on all roads and Britain already had the world's major problem of road congestion.

Last year a record number of 15,474,000 vehicles contributed ,the highest ever total of motor taxation revenue £I,951m by ",ay of fuel tax, licence duties, and purchase tax,

Highway experts, surveyors, weights and measures representatives, and other local authority officials in the Wessex region attended the National Benzole presentation.

Report of Institute of Petroleum Marl<eting Sub-Committee - Panel A

Submersible Pumps and Remote Pumping

A Special Meeting, No. 5 in the series with ,the Association of Petroleum po. et£ Administration and the Greater London Council was held on Tuesday, 23rd May, 1972 at 61 New Cavendish Straet, WIM BAR.

Members will no doubt be interested in some of the items under discussion and we include these for information.

Quick Acting Couplings

The AP.A.A Code of Practice calls for a screwed connection ,to fill and dip pipe but i<t was agreed that what -is needed is a leak proof joint. They decided to mention this point in an article in the Bulletin pending revision of the Code.

The G.L.C. have already amended ,their condiNons to allow Q.A coupHngs .

Offset Fills Terminating above Ground

The AP.AA suggested tha't offset fill piP:s could terminate above ground and it was agreed that thIS could have distinct advantages such as clear labelhng, lockable caps, and freedom from waterlogged arrangement is permitted in the G.L.C.area theIr general conditions, and the AP.AA undertook ,to Investigate the matter.

Ducts under Forecourts

It was agreed that all ends of ducts should be sealed but as a matter of safety, ends of ducts where ,they enter buildings must b(: sealed. Hemp, coal tar. pitch,. with weak concrete was agreed to be effective. CIrculatIOn of this information would be achieved through copies of these minutes to oil companies, by the AP .AA through the Bulletin, and the G.L.C. will advise their inspectors.

Edge Lighting on Canopies

The G.L.C. undertook to provide details of their ments in connecNon witth electrical fittings on canopIes, and a copy of their contribution ,is attached. These ments can be the subject of discussion at the next meetmg.

G.R.P. Tanks

To date there ls no record of an approach to use plastic piping so there is no experience available.

The G.L.C. has the only experience of G.R.P. tank a-tion 'and a .!opy of their requirement ,is attached. It WIll be some considerable ,time before any positive experience is available and the G.L.C. suggested that the I.P. should ;tpproach ·the Home Office for guidance.

The AP AA cannot answer for the reactions of members but ie}'t they should be involved in any experiments and' undertook ,to publish any records and results in the Bulletin.

'Provided the submers,ible or remote pumps have the approval of B.A.S.E.E.F.A. and are otherwise suitable, the AP.AA. and G.-L.C. would agree to their use within their conditions of licence.

(a) A leak detector valve would be required in the pressure delivery line from the submersible/remote pumps unless this line was downstream of the meter.

(b) An ,impact check and isolating valve would be required at the base of each dispenser.

(c) There would be no objection to the limiting device operating in ,the hydraulic circuit of the dispenser instead of in the electrical circuit of the pump motor" the nozzle switch of the dispenser would need operate a solenoid valve in the hydraulic circuit of the dispenser and conveniently the limiting device could act on this valve also.

Lockable Dip Caps

Whilst some local authorities call for lockable dip caps was agreed that this is a condition that is difficult to enforce at prEsent it is the licensee's responsibility.

If driver controlled delivel'ies are used, then the driver would be responsible for locking the dip cap.

A.P.A.A. Items

There were no items over and above the agenda items, but they were bu'lY working on tank tes,tIng methods with increasing ,tank sizes. Two other items currently receiving attention were :(a) Emergency procedures, and (b) Signatories for electrical certificates.

G.L.C. Items

Nothing specific was raised by the G.L.C. but they are considering what ·action should be taken regarding old tanks fitted with offset fills plus dip pipes.

G.L.C. stated that If hose lengths were increased over 12'0" safety distances would be <increased pro rata to maintain link with the Model Code.

Glazing in Kio3ks and Offices

In the G:L.C. area, Georgian wired glazing may be ·required in window openings to buildings within 20'-40' of petrol exposure points. In the case of single storey se'rv,ice buildings this requirement v.:aived provided means of escape are adequate Jut the bUIldmg should be constructed in noncombustible material.

Consoles and Control Points

The A.P.A.A. stated that in many cases, the only effective means of enablIng the opera·tor to have a clear v·iew of all pumps on a post payment site ,is to raise the floor level of

the control point. In some cases the floor has been raised by as much as 1'6".

The I.P. agrecld that raising the floor level was occasionally necessary, but .the maximum height should be 9" because any greater height created problems vis -a -vis customer -and operator.

Metrication Underground Storage Tanks

The question of plate thickness when sheet metal is metricated was raised, but it was outside the scope of the meeting to discuss, and more details were required by all parties before any decision could be considered.

THE ROBENS REPORT

An interesting extract

The Robens' Committee in their report recently published (H:M.S.O. £1.30) make far reaching recommendations in respect of safety and health at work. In the section dealing with flammable and explosive substances ·it says:

"It is generally acknowledged that the pattern of controls provided is by no means satisfactory. The Explosives and Petroleum (ConSOlidation) Acts provide a tight regime of control over some intrinsically dangerous substances, but these provisions do not cover-and we were told that they cannot be readily extended to cover-a variety of explosive and flammable substances which are potentially as dangerous or more dangerous than those which are subject to strict licensing control. The action that can be taken under the Factories Act is limited by the scope of the Act. For example, the Act provides no powers for regulating conditions at storage depots or tank farms. Thus whilst regulations under the Act have recently been prepared for controlling the storage and use of highly flammable liquids, these will apply only to premises falling within the scope of the present Act.

It is perhaps not surprising that during the course of the Inquiry many experts expressed concern about the inadequacies and loopholes in this field which are perpetuated by the piecemeal character of the legislation and of the ·administrative arrangements. The statutory arrangements have not kept pace with changes in the nature and scale of the relevant technologies. We have mentioned that since 1968 an inter-departmental committee has reviewing the administrative machinery for controllmg intrinsically dangerous substances. One of the problems appears to be that the Home Office cannot seek new and more comprehensive powers ,in this field without encroach.jng further into the territory of the Factory Inspectorate. Conversely, any additional measures taken under the Factories Act have to be harmonised with the separately administered legislation on explosives and petroleum. In the present situation neither the Home Office nor the Depa.rtment of Employment can introduce really comprehenSive measures. In the meantime, the existing controls remain incomplete and unsatisfactory in a variety of ways.

The underlying difficulties here would be resolved by the adoption of our proposals for comprehensive safety lation under single administration and enforcement. ThiS would make possible the development of a single, comprehensive regime of control over intrinsically flammable and explosive substances in industrial and commercial use, to be adl!linistered in the interests of the safety both of the

public and of employees. So far as practicable this control should be exercised 'across the board', that is to say it should apply to ,the importation, manufacture, acquisition, use, storage and transport of such SUbstances (although the last point is not within our terms of reference). We recommend' therefore, within the context of our general proposals that:-

a) The Explosives Acts 1875 and 1923 and the Petroleum (Consolidation) Act 1928, as well as relevant provisions under the Factories Act and other occupational safety legislation, should be revised and replaced by comprehensive regulations dealing with the manufacture, storage and use in industry and commerce of intrinsically dangerous substances of a flammable or explosive nature. We envisage that these controls will frequently take the form ofa system of licensing and inspection by the central authority, in association with 'upper-tier' local authorities. The division of duties between the central and local authorities should be determined by considerations of scale of risk and availability of ·the technical expertise needed for adequate inspection. The broad distribution of responsibilities should be determined centrally. Adjustments in detail should be settled by ,the Area Offices of the Authority for Safety and Health at Work.

b) Questions concerning controls over explosive and flammable SUbstances should fall within the province of a specialised 'major hazards' unit of the central inspectorate.

c) Adequate powers should be provided in the main Act to enable the introduction of such new, amended or additional regulations as may prove necessary in the light of technological developments. These should include powers to require prior approval .for the introduction of new types of installation or operations involving intrinsically dangerous substances.

d) In the exercise of these powers the Authority for Safety and Health at Work should be advised by a standing Advisory Committee on Explosive and Flammable Substances. The proposals made would considerably widen the purview of the present Advisory Committee on Dangerous Substances, which is concerned primarily with the considerations of public safety in relation to the transport and storage of dangerous substances. The Committee would need to be given a new and wider remit, and would no doubt need to be reconstituted accordingly" .

Legal Proceedings

TEESSIDE

On 22nd September, 1972, fire prevention officers visited the premises 0;' Howell Motors, 3/7 Granville Road, Middlesbrough, when it was found that approximately 25 gallons of petroleum mixtures, consisting Qf approximately 5 gallons 'of cellulose based pased paints and approx'imately 20 gallDns Qf cellulose thinner, were being stored on the first floor of the building. In spite of previous insltructions the occupiers of the premises had not made application for a petroleum licence and the mixtures were stored in a haphazard manner with no indicatJion Df the fire hazard associated with their use.

On 13th October, 1972, samples were purchased from the firm and sent for analysis. The analytical report later received on the3e samples stated that flash point was less than 50°F.

On 29th October at Middlesbrough Magistrates' COUI't the firm were found guilty of storing petroleum mixtures without a licence. Each of the two partners were fined a mm of £50 and the CDrporation were awarded £5.15 costs.

FLINTSHIRE

On 12th Octo:)er, 1972, a fire occurred ,in a motor van at a Quarry Site in Flintshire.

When the first fire appliance arrived, the Sub-Officer in charge was informed by the driver that a plastic fuU of petroleum spirit, was stored in the van. As the SubOfficer approached the vehicle an explosiDn occurred and the rear doors were blown open and he received bums as a result thereof.

The driver of the van was subsequently charged with contravention of Regula·Hon 2 of the Petroleum Spirit Motor Vehicles Regulations, 1929, and the Petroleum (Consolidation) Act, 1928 (as amended by the Third Schedule to the Criminal Justices Aot, 1967).

The charge was proven and the driver was fined the sum of £10.

WORCESTER CITY

Art Worcester City Magistrates Court on 1st November, 1972 Wholesale Kerosene Distributors (G.B.) Ltd., were with five offences under the Petroleum (Consolidation) Act 1928 and assDciated Regulations.

The Company pleaded guilty to the first three charges and not guilty to the two others.

Notwithstanding the corroborated evidence of two officers that there was 12 to 18 inches of spirit sWI remaining in the compartment which had conveyed but which was in the course of delivery when they arrIved, the defending solicitor endeavoured to show ,that the officers must have been mistaken and it was gas oil which they saw 'in the compal'tment, not petroleum spirit, and therefore the Regulations did not apply ,then.

All the driver could say was that he delivered gas oil and petrol concurrently and as there was 1,000 gallons of gas oil and 600 gallons of petrol, the petrol would have been delivered first and it would have been the gas oil that was remaining.

The Magistrates obviously accepted the evidence of the officers and the charges were found proved. The following fines were imposed:

1. Not exhibiting "inflammable" notice at front and rear of vehicle £75.

2. Vehicle not marked with words "Petroleum Spirit _ Highly Inflammable" and name and address of sender £10.

3. 4.

Did carry ,the key to open top filling openings of carrying tank on the vehicle £75. Did fail to keep covers of filling openings of carryin tank closed and locked £75. g

5. Did to supply driver with a copy of Conveya Regulations and take all other steps to ensure was acquainted with and carried out the provisio the Regulations _ £20. ns 0

Total Fines £225.

WORTHING

At Worthing Borough Magistrates Court on 13th December, 1972, thefEsSo Co. Lt.d. pleaded guilty to an offence 0 keepmg petro eum spIrit in contraventio f the licence. Fined The Company also pleaded to an offence of falling to number dipsticks in acc d y P I S ( or ance with the etro eum pmt Conveyance by Road) R ulations, 1957. Fined £50 and ordered to pay £10 co t eg- s s.

Inspection revealed that petroleum spirit had bee t n s ored m a tank preVIOusly used for dIesel fuel which was not licensed for the purpose of petroleum storage