Why interceptor cleaning matters

Factory managers and proprietors alike, have been warned to ensure fuel and oil interceptors are regularly maintained to avoid the risk of unlimited fines and criminal prosecution.

Interceptors are drainage systems found at numerous commercial and industrial sites, including car parks, car washes, petrol station forecourts, construction sites, factories and vehicle maintenance areas.

They prevent oil from polluting the environment or discharging into the sewer. Without regular maintenance, these units can overflow or fail, leading to environmental fines, forecourt shutdowns, or serious pollution risks.

CSG, a waste management specialist in the UK, has published a concise checklist for operation managers to ensure interceptors are maintained properly, reducing the risk of prosecution for accidental pollution and ensuring compliance with Environmental Protection Agency regulations.

Steve Hicks, HR director at CSG, said: “Interceptors are found anywhere oil or fuel spillage is likely to occur. They play a vital role – but they need to be maintained properly and regularly to be effective.

“We have published a new checklist to make it as easy as possible for those concerned to do what is necessary to stay compliant and safe, while protecting the local environment.

“We have seen too many incidents of pollution which could’ve been prevented by simple precautions.”

Interceptors and separators filter contaminants from rainwater runoff, such as grime, dirt, silt, petrol, brake dust and oil.

The devices contain chambers that separate oil from water and sediment. The oil floats to the top and sediment sinks to the bottom before cleaner water flows through the chambers and exits through a storm drain or outlet. Vents attached to these chambers release any trapped vapour during the process.

Generally, it is recommended to have an interceptor inspected every three to six months, including a visual check of mechanical parts. It is advised that interceptors should be serviced every six months by a qualified engineer in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Busy sites will need to be serviced on a more regular basis. In some cases, this may even be necessary on a monthly or weekly basis.

“Agreeing a long-term maintenance and servicing plan is the easiest way to ensure interceptors are cleaned and maintained to an appropriate standard, minimising risk,” Hicks added.