Since diesel was reclassified as a flammable liquid in June 2015, all fuelling equipment must meet strict standards and comply with EU regulations.
Although nothing changed about diesel, the definition of a flammable liquid altered by changing the flashpoint of liquids covered by DSEAR to between 21 and 60ºC, previously 21 to 55ºC. Diesel is generally recognised to have a flashpoint between 55 and 60ºC and is therefore now under DSEAR (The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002) and ATEX (the name commonly given to the two European Directives for controlling explosive atmospheres).
It is becoming increasingly more common for insurers to refuse cover for equipment and hardware that is not certified to ATEX standards. This means that any fleet operator still using outdated and uncertified equipment is not only risking the health and safety of employees, but also financial difficulties and loss of equipment should an accident happen.
All of Merridale’s new pumps and fuel management systems are certified or compliant to strict ATEX standards, giving the end-user peace of mind where safety is involved. Fleet operators still using old Merridale equipment may not need to worry about completely replacing their setup in order to be covered and comply to regulations, as most old systems can be fully upgraded to meet ATEX requirements.
