Compliance Resources
Staying compliant can be complicated. PetroTen makes it easier with resources, FAQs, and industry insights.
What is Fuel Polishing and Why Do You Need It?
Stored fuel isn’t always as clean as it looks. Over time, water, sludge, and microbial growth contaminate tanks, causing breakdowns and compliance issues. Fuel polishing is the process of restoring fuel to optimal condition — and it can save you costly downtime.
What is Fuel Polishing?
Fuel polishing is a multi-step cleaning process that removes water, sediment, and microbial contaminants from stored fuel. Specialized filtration and circulation equipment “polishes” the fuel until it meets quality standards for safe use.
Why Fuel Gets Contaminated
• Water intrusion from condensation or tank leaks
• Microbial growth (“diesel bugs”) that thrive in fuel/water mixtures
• Sediment and sludge from tank corrosion or debris buildup
The Risks of Ignoring It
• Clogged filters and injectors
• Engine failure in critical equipment
• Non-compliance with environmental regulations
• Costly emergency fuel replacement
Benefits of Fuel Polishing
• Extends the life of stored fuel
• Reduces equipment downtime
• Helps maintain regulatory compliance
• Protects against unexpected failures
Fuel polishing is not just maintenance — it’s risk prevention. Petroten offers professional fuel polishing services to keep your fuel tanks clean, reliable, and compliant.
Top 5 Compliance Mistakes Fuel Operators Make
Compliance is more than a checklist — it’s about protecting your business, your customers, and the environment. Yet, many fuel operators fall into the same traps. Here are the five most common mistakes we see in the field.
1. Skipping Regular Inspections
Failing to inspect tanks, pumps, and monitors increases the chance of leaks or system failures — and exposes you to fines.
2. Poor Documentation
Even if equipment is in good condition, missing records of inspections, tests, or maintenance can put you out of compliance.
3. Ignoring Leak Alarms
Alarms are early warnings. Disabling or ignoring them can lead to major environmental and financial consequences.
4. Outdated Spill Kits and Safety Gear
Compliance isn’t just about tanks — it includes response preparedness. Expired absorbents and missing PPE can cost you during an audit.
5. No Preventive Maintenance Plan
Waiting for equipment to break before servicing it is risky. Regulators expect proactive maintenance.
Avoiding these mistakes saves time, money, and reputation. Petroten provides compliance assistance, from inspections to documentation, so you stay audit-ready year-round.
How Often Should You Inspect Your Fuel Tanks?
Fuel tanks are the backbone of fueling operations, but without proper inspection, they pose environmental and operational risks. Knowing when and how often to inspect is key to compliance and safety.
Monthly Visual Inspections
Operators should perform a basic check at least once a month, looking for:
• Visible leaks or drips
• Damaged hoses or seals
• Fuel staining around the tank area
• Alarm system functionality
Annual Comprehensive Inspections
A professional inspection once a year ensures compliance with state and federal regulations. These include:
• Tightness testing
• Leak detection system checks
• Tank calibration
• Fuel quality assessment
Why Inspection Frequency Matters
• Prevents costly cleanups from leaks
• Extends equipment lifespan
• Helps avoid regulatory fines
• Protects your reputation with customers and regulators
Signs You Need an Immediate Inspection
• Sudden fuel loss with no sales record
• Water in fuel tanks
• Frequent filter clogging
• Alarm triggers or monitor malfunctions
Regular inspections aren’t just compliance requirements — they’re best practice. Petroten offers scheduled maintenance and inspections tailored to your operation’s needs.