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TANKS ON PARADE
Page 66
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Tanker operators headed for Telford in May for the Federation of Petroleum Suppliers' 25th annual show. Andy Salter joined the masses
Squabbles over who's got the lightest tanker, a new tanker driver training scheme and advice on the new pollution prevention guidelines—these were just some of the issues up for discussion at last month's FPS Show and Conference in Telford. With more than 180 exhibitors displaying their wares, the event attracted more than 1,500 visitors. While some of the stands were a little too specialist for some, there was plenty to see.
HEAVY COMPETITION
The war that's raging between tanker builders over who's got the lightest product on the market is of key interest to many tanker operators.
Lakeland Tankers had been leading the running with its 5,140kg tanker, only to be upstaged at the show by Heil and Cabo.
Hell's stand was based around its claimed British and European weight record with a tanker tipping the scales at just 5,130kg. But Spanish manufacturer Cobo reckoned to have gone one better with an unladen weight of just 4,940kg. And it had a ministry-approved weighbridge ticket on display at the show to prove the point.
Of the other suppliers in the sector, Feldbinder has a standard tanker that tips the scales at 5,200kg, and it reckons it could dip below the 5,150kg weight target set by Hoyer for its tender list. Magyar is bringing a 5,400kg demo unit to the UK.
New guidelines for oil storage
Operators in every sector will need to take heed of new pollution prevention guidelines issued by the Environmental Agency, and they made big news at the show.
The guidelines become law in September. Operators who store more than 200 litres of oil will have to meet standards designed to cut the risk of oil pollution. Document PPG2 from the Environment Agency covers specification for storage containers, secondary containment of tanks, ancillary equipment and security issues. It also includes a checklist for compliance.
Fines for non-compliant kit can be as high as i.5,000, and causing pollution carries a £20,000 fine or a three-month jail sentence.
"We would prefer it if operators spent their money upgrading facilities rather than paying fines," said the Environment Agency's Teresa Brown."They will still have to pay to upgrade their facilities after they've been tined." OIL EXPERTS
FPS driver training scheme
The FPS used the show to launch a driver training scheme for the oil distribution sector. Training is delivered via a video or DVD and workbook, allowing candidates to work through the course at their own pace.
When the workbook has been completed, it will be externally assessed. The driver can then take a half-day vocational assessment, This will include carrying out vehicle checks, loading operations, driving and making deliveries, working to the FPS Guidelines for Safer Deliveries, Unsafe Delivery Point Report forms and the use of spill kits and ladders.
FPS technical manager Peter Emery says this scheme will be the model for future driver training: "Members need practical help when it cornea to training drivers. They need to comply with current legislation, demonstrate their commitment to protecting the environment and offer exceptional customer care.
"Drivers are a company's ambassadors, so their knowledge and competence is vital. At present they have to complete driver training under ADR. This aims to make them aware of the potential hazards of carrying dangerous goods, and gives them basic information.
"We believe a higher level of vocational training is needed. Devebped by members for members, the new training is relevant and practical. It is tailored to our industry and the unique problems our drivers face every day"