Navigating AS1940: Diesel Storage Compliance

If your business stores, handles, or dispenses diesel fuel, then compliance with the Australian Standard AS1940 isn’t just smart—it’s mandatory. Yet many businesses, from farms to industrial facilities, still rely on outdated or non-compliant diesel tanks, risking serious fines, environmental damage, and workplace safety issues.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about AS1940 compliance, the role of diesel storage tanks, and why switching to double-walled, poly diesel tanks from The Water Tank Factory is the smart move for safety, sustainability, and peace of mind.

AS1940 is the Australian Standard for the storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids. It outlines the legal requirements for tank design, placement, protection measures, signage, spill containment, and more. While diesel is classified as a combustible liquid (not flammable), it still falls under this standard.

Failing to comply with AS1940 could result in:
* Hefty fines or shutdowns from WorkSafe or the EPA.
* Legal liability if a diesel spill leads to fire, injury, or environmental harm.
* Insurance denial if a non-compliant tank is involved in an incident.

Hot Tip: Even if you store diesel in smaller volumes, AS1940 applies once you exceed 250L indoors or 1,000L outdoors. Most farms and commercial operations easily surpass this.

Requirement	Description
Tank Design & Certification	Must be built to AS/NZS standards (e.g. 4766 for poly tanks).
Bunded Tanks	Required unless the tank is fully self-bunded (double-walled).
Spill Containment	Must contain leaks or ruptures safely.
Ventilation	Vents must be flame-proof and away from ignition sources.
Clear Signage	Must display “Combustible Liquid” and capacity.
Separation Distances	Placement must follow specific distances from buildings or boundaries.
Fire Protection	Fire extinguishers or firefighting equipment must be accessible.

Compliance Tip: Not all tanks sold as “diesel tanks” meet these criteria. Only purchase tanks clearly rated for diesel storage and certified to AS standards.

When businesses think diesel tanks, they often picture metal—but rotomoulded poly diesel tanks are quickly becoming the smarter, safer, and more cost-effective option. Here’s why:
✅ Corrosion Resistance
Unlike steel, poly tanks won’t rust, even when storing fuel with microbial contaminants or being placed near the ocean.
✅ Built-In UV Protection
Australian sun? No worries. UV-stabilised poly ensures longevity without cracking or degradation.
✅ Self-Bunded Options
The Tank Factory’s double-walled diesel tanks act as tank and bund in one, simplifying compliance and eliminating the need for external bunds or sumps.
✅ Lighter and Easier to Install
No need for cranes or heavy lifting gear—especially valuable for regional installations.
✅ AS/NZS 4766 Certification
All tanks are manufactured to meet or exceed this crucial standard for underground and above-ground poly storage.

You’ll need to comply with AS1940 if you’re storing or using diesel at:
* Farms and agricultural sites
* Transport or trucking depots
* Mining and construction sites
* Warehouses and factories
* Service stations and refuelling points
* Government or council depots
* Marinas or marine maintenance yards

Even small businesses using diesel generators or machinery may require compliant tanks depending on volume stored.

Pro Tip: Diesel tanks are a long-term investment. Choose quality now to avoid paying twice in retrofits, fines, or tank failures.

With so many providers on the market, what makes The Water Tank Factory Australia’s trusted name in diesel and chemical storage?
️ Safety by Design
* Self-bunded construction: leak protection built in.
* UV stabilised poly walls with superior shot weight = thicker, more durable tanks.
* Lockable lids and inlets to prevent theft or contamination.
✅ Fully AS/NZS Certified
* Compliant with AS1940 storage standards.
* Tanks manufactured under strict quality control and pressure-tested.
Fast Delivery Nationwide
* Delivered direct to farms, industrial sites, or rural locations.
* Most models available in multiple sizes for different business needs.
Customised Advice
* Our team understands your industry—whether you’re a farmer, miner, or commercial operator.
* Call us with your tank specs and compliance needs, and we’ll help ensure you’re fully covered.

Don’t leave diesel compliance to chance. With stricter enforcement of AS1940 and growing environmental scrutiny, now is the time to upgrade your diesel storage to a solution that’s safe, certified, and built to last.

Browse our diesel and chemical tank range here or speak to our team to get the right tank for your business.