Top 7 features to look for when choosing a Fuel Tank Manufacturer
A well-built, compliant, technologically advanced and properly supported tank will safeguard your operations for decades. We’re here to help identify a clear set of features that separate industry leaders from the rest. From compliance credentials to innovation and aftercare, these benchmarks will guide you in selecting a partner who not only meets today’s standards but is also prepared for tomorrow’s challenges.
In this article, we explore the 7 key features to look for when selecting a fuel tank manufacturer in the UK.
Steve Gain, Managing Director at OTS Group, shares his insight on the key features to look for when choosing a fuel tank manufacturer.
1. Regulatory compliance and accreditation
One of the first things to consider is compliance. In the UK, fuel storage is subject to strict legislation designed to protect people, businesses, and the environment.
The best fuel tank manufacturers hold recognised accreditations and build tanks to meet or exceed these standards. Some of the most important to look for include:
ISO 9001: Quality Management Systems – Demonstrates a manufacturer’s commitment to consistent processes, rigorous testing, and continual improvement. This ensures tanks are produced to the highest quality and reliability standards.
OFTEC registration – OFTEC registration confirms safe installation and maintenance practices for fuel tanks and equipment.
OFCERT (OFS T200) certification – OFCERT OFS T200 certification covers the entire bunded structure, making it the only standard that fully meets the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations. This provides enhanced environmental protection, fewer compliance risks, and stronger long-term value.
DSEAR compliance (Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations) – Ensures tanks are designed and manufactured to safely store hazardous fuels, protecting people, assets, and operations in high-risk environments.
CIRIA C736: Secondary Containment for Oil Storage Tanks – Provides clear industry guidance on bund design and performance. Compliance with CIRIA 736 reduces the risk of leaks, spills, and costly clean-up operations.
BS 799-5: Oil Storage Tanks, Code of Practice for Installation – A British Standard covering the design, construction, and installation of oil storage tanks. Meeting BS 799-5 ensures tanks are safe, durable, and legally compliant across the UK.
Working with a manufacturer who understands and meets regulatory standards ensures you stay on the right side of the law while protecting your people and assets.
2. A proven track record in the UK
Another key feature to look for in a UK fuel tank manufacturer is a demonstrable track record. Experience brings knowledge, reliability, and the ability to deliver complex projects without compromise. A company with decades of proven success is more likely to anticipate challenges, design smarter solutions, and consistently meet high standards of safety, quality, and compliance.
When assessing a manufacturer, look for evidence such as:
Years in business: Longevity is a strong indicator of trust and reliability. OTS Group, for example, has been operating since 1971, giving it more than 50 years of experience as a leading UK manufacturer.
Diverse sectors served: A true industry leader should demonstrate expertise across a range of industries. OTS has delivered fuel storage solutions for logistics hubs, construction and plant operations, agriculture, marine and offshore environments, government and military facilities, and data centres to name but a few. In particular, OTS is recognised as a data centre fuel infrastructure expert, trusted to deliver critical systems where reliability and compliance cannot be compromised.
Case studies and high-profile clients: Look for tangible examples of successful projects. OTS’s portfolio includes everything from bespoke fuelling stations for enterprise clients to large-scale installations for critical infrastructure. Working with organisations such as Tesco, Certas, the NHS, Total, and UK government departments demonstrates the company’s ability to deliver at scale and to strict regulatory requirements.
When choosing a fuel tank manufacturer, a proven track record should be a deciding factor. Working with an experienced company means that it is likely that your project will be delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest possible standard.
3. High-quality design and manufacturing standards
A defining feature of a leading fuel tank manufacturer in the UK is the quality of its design and manufacturing. Fuel tanks are safety-critical systems that must perform reliably under demanding conditions. This makes quality assurance and health and safety non-negotiable at every stage of the process.
Key factors to look for include:
Materials: Tanks should be built from high-grade, corrosion-resistant steel to guarantee durability, with bunded (double-skinned) designs that provide secondary containment and reduce the risk of leaks.
Fabrication methods: Precision welding, advanced finishing, and rigorous non-destructive testing ensure structural integrity. At OTS Group’s factory, every tank is manufactured under strict quality controls, with safety and compliance embedded into each step of production. OTS is also one of the UK’s few manufacturers with proven expertise in structural slab tanks, a robust underground solution designed to maximise site space while ensuring long-term performance.
Customisation and flexibility: The best manufacturers recognise that no two sites or projects are the same. Bespoke design options allow tanks to be tailored for different capacities, site layouts, and industry-specific requirements without ever compromising on safety.
What sets leading UK manufacturers apart is not only their engineering ability but also their culture of continuous improvement. For example, OTS has been innovating for over 50 years, combining craftsmanship with advanced manufacturing technology to deliver tanks that consistently meet the highest standards. Every stage, from design approval through to final inspection, is governed by strict quality assurance protocols.
When choosing a fuel tank manufacturer, prioritise one with proven quality assurance and health and safety practices.
4. End-to-end solutions
One of the most valuable features to look for in a fuel tank manufacturer is the ability to provide true end-to-end solutions. A fuel storage project does not begin and end with the fabrication of the tank, it involves design, installation, integration, and ongoing care throughout the tank’s entire lifecycle. Choosing a manufacturer with a full turnkey service ensures continuity, accountability, and quality at every stage.
A trusted manufacturer should offer:
Design and installation expertise: The process begins with bespoke design, tailored to the specific needs of the site and sector. With nationwide turnkey installation capability, OTS provides consistent quality and compliance across the UK, delivering projects from concept to commissioning without reliance on subcontractors. From there, manufacturing ensures the tank is commissioned safely and in compliance with regulations and the on-site engineering team should ensure a fully compliant install. At OTS, design and installation are handled by in-house teams, eliminating the risks and delays that often come with outsourcing.
Integration with fuel technology: Beyond the tank itself, modern operations rely on systems such as fuel management and AVI (Automatic Vehicle Identification). By integrating this technology at design stage, a best-in-class manufacturer will provide businesses with accurate monitoring, automated refuelling, and smarter data insights from day one.
Post-install services: An end-to-end manufacturer doesn’t stop once the tank is operational. They should deliver a full suite of aftercare services, including tank cleaning, industrial cleaning, fuel uplift and disposal, bund lining, and decommissioning when the tank reaches end of life. This lifecycle approach ensures tanks remain safe, compliant, and efficient for many years.
The benefits of working with an end-to-end provider are clear:
A single point of accountability from design through to decommissioning.
A team that fully understands the tank, its technology, and its operational requirements.
Streamlined communication and project management, reducing delays and cost overruns.
When choosing a fuel tank manufacturer, look for one that offers more than just fabrication. By selecting an end-to-end provider, you gain a long-term partner who can deliver, manage, and support your fuel storage solution across its entire lifecycle.
5. Commitment to environmental responsibility
Another top feature to look for in a fuel tank manufacturer is a genuine commitment to environmental protection. Fuel storage carries inherent risks, and even a small leak can lead to contamination, reputational damage, and expensive remediation. A responsible manufacturer designs complete fuel storage systems that minimise environmental impact from day one.
When assessing a manufacturer, look for the following:
Certified bunded designs: The best tanks include integrated bunds that provide a second line of defence against spills. OTS goes further, holding OFCERT OFS T200 certification, which certifies the entire bunded structure. This is the only standard that fully meets the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations, giving clients enhanced protection and fewer compliance risks.
Lifecycle thinking: Environmental responsibility extends beyond fabrication. A leading manufacturer should understand how tanks perform and degrade over time. At OTS, tank cleaning and industrial cleaning services are central to operations. By building tanks that are designed to be serviced and maintained over a long lifecycle, OTS reduces waste and ensures clients get lasting value from their investment.
Integration with fuel management technology: Modern fuel storage is about more than steel and welds. Look for a manufacturer that incorporates the latest fuel management and monitoring systems into their designs. This enables businesses to prevent misuse, detect issues early, and improve efficiency, all of which reduce environmental impact and support sustainability goals.
Safe waste handling: A responsible manufacturer should offer services such as fuel uplift and disposal, ensuring that waste products are managed safely and in full compliance with environmental regulations.
When choosing a fuel tank manufacturer, look for a commitment to environmental responsibility in the services they provide and the quality of their products.
6. Aftercare and long-term support
The sixth feature to look for in a fuel tank manufacturer is the level of aftercare they provide. A fuel tank is a long-term investment, and the support you receive after installation is just as important as the tank itself. The best manufacturers don’t walk away once the tank is delivered, they stand behind their products with comprehensive service and maintenance options.
Key elements of strong aftercare include:
Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM): Regular servicing that identifies and resolves potential issues before they cause downtime or safety risks.
Emergency callouts: Access to skilled engineers who can respond quickly in the event of a leak, failure, or contamination problem.
Readily available parts and spares: Assurance that any replacement components will be high-quality, compatible, and delivered without delay.
When choosing a fuel tank manufacturer, aftercare should be a deciding factor. A manufacturer that offers reliable maintenance, emergency support, and easy access to parts provides long-term security for your investment. By selecting a partner with a proven aftercare programme you ensure your tank remains safe, compliant, and fully operational throughout its lifecycle.
7. Innovation and future-proofing
The final feature to look for in a fuel tank manufacturer in the UK is innovation. The energy landscape is changing rapidly, with new fuel types, environmental regulations, and digital technologies shaping how businesses store and manage fuel.
Future-focused manufacturers design tanks and systems that are built to adapt. At OTS, innovation is central to every project. From the factory floor to on-site installation, the team is committed to creating storage solutions that remain relevant and reliable in the decades to come.
Key examples of OTS’s innovation include:
Fuel management integration: OTS tanks are designed to work seamlessly with advanced fuel management systems, giving businesses real-time monitoring, reporting, and control. This technology helps reduce fuel misuse, improve efficiency, and cut environmental impact.
AVI (Automatic Vehicle Identification) systems: For sectors like logistics, rail, and bus fleets, OTS installs AVI systems that automate refuelling, reduce manual error, and provide accurate data for smarter decision-making.
Low-carbon fuel compatibility: With the shift towards renewable and low-carbon alternatives, OTS ensures tanks are suitable for storing new fuel blends. Designs take into account the chemical properties of alternative fuels, ensuring durability and compliance with future energy demands.
Advanced materials and coatings: To extend lifespan and reduce maintenance requirements, OTS uses robust, corrosion-resistant steel alongside modern coatings and finishes that protect against wear and environmental exposure.
When choosing a fuel tank manufacturer, it’s important to consider their reputation for innovation. The best manufacturers are forward-thinking, designing tanks and systems that not only meet today’s needs but are also designed for tomorrow’s energy landscape, whether that means advanced monitoring, automation, or compatibility with the fuels of the future.
How OTS meets the standard
When evaluating manufacturers against these benchmarks, OTS Group consistently stands out as the UK’s reference point for excellence in fuel storage.
Compliance as standard: OTS holds ISO 9001 certification, OFTEC registration, and OFCERT (OFS T200) certification, and manufactures tanks that meet DSEAR, CIRIA C736, and BS 799-5 requirements. This ensures every installation is built for safety, compliance, and long-term reliability.
Proven track record: With over 50 years in business, OTS has delivered projects across logistics, agriculture, construction, marine and offshore, data centres, and government facilities. Clients such as Tesco, Certas, the NHS, and Total reflect the scale and trust placed in OTS by leading organisations.
Quality assurance and health & safety: Every tank is manufactured under strict quality control procedures. Health and safety is embedded throughout design, build, and installation, ensuring tanks are robust, reliable, and safe to operate.
End-to-end solutions: OTS offers a complete lifecycle service from bespoke design and in-house installation to ongoing support including fuel management integration, tank cleaning, fuel uplift, and decommissioning. This gives clients a single point of accountability from start to finish.
Environmental responsibility: With OFCERT-certified bund designs, lifecycle-focused manufacturing, and responsible waste-handling services, OTS places environmental protection at the centre of every project.
Aftercare and support: Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM), nationwide emergency callouts, and an engineering team that takes pride in delivering outstanding service ensure tanks remain operational, compliant, and efficient for decades.
Innovation and future-proofing: OTS integrates advanced technologies such as real-time fuel management systems and AVI refuelling solutions, while designing tanks compatible with low-carbon and alternative fuels. This guarantees that OTS tanks remain relevant as the energy landscape evolves.
Choosing the right fuel tank manufacturer is about more than finding someone who can fabricate a steel tank. It is about selecting a partner with the accreditations, experience, and forward-thinking approach to deliver safe, compliant, and reliable fuel storage for the long term.
From regulatory compliance and quality assurance to environmental responsibility, aftercare, and innovation, OTS Group demonstrates every feature you should expect from a leading manufacturer. With over 50 years of proven success, a nationwide support network, and a commitment to future-proofing fuel storage, OTS stands as the benchmark for excellence in the UK. When your business needs more than just a tank, OTS provides the complete solution, designed, built, installed, and supported for decades of performance and peace of mind.
