RPM Fuels & Tanks Blog

In February 2009, The Environment Agency investigated an oil leak in the tributary of Hammond Beck Drain, leading to E &S Fork Lift Sales and Hires, in Donington near Spalding. The Environment Agency bought the case to court following the leak from a vandalized oil tank. The oil had leaked through a surface water drain directly below the storage tank, which lead to the Hammond Beck Drain.

Eric Elam claimed that although the leak was spotted, He hadn’t reported it to the Environment Agency as staff on site had cleaned it up.

Claire Magee, an office for the Environment Agency said, "Oil can have serious impacts on the environment and clean-up costs can be very expensive.  Anyone storing oil must ensure that they comply with all the relevant legislation and take appropriate measures to keep their oil safe and secure. Any spills should be reported to the Environment Agency without delay."

The oil in the water caused distress to a swan, which needed to be rescued and cleaned by the RSPCA. There were also reports of dead invertebrates found in the surrounding waters.  Pools of water on site of E&S Fork Lift Sales and Hire had signs of thick dark oil in them.

Eric Elam pleaded guilty and was fined £12,000. As a result, Mr Elam has moved all oil tanks inside, and now has 24 hour on site surveillance.