Depending on vehicles’ types, checks include the
inspection of:
n
Electrical equipment and electrical continuity (for
example lights, work lamps and aftermarket
equipment).
n
General equipment (for example tyres, fire
extinguishers).
n
Tank and tank top (for example general condition,
foot valves, drainage, manhole covers and pipework).
n
Tank internal (for example overfill protection sensor
and breather valve).
n
Control system (for example control cabinet, anti
drive away function, guard bar and foot valve
operation).
n
Labels and hazard panels.
n
Loading connections (for example loading adapters
and overfill protection system sockets).
Inspection technicians complete SLP inspections
against the inspection forms and, if approved, will issue a
pass to the tractor unit, trailer unit or rigid vehicle. Each
pass has a validity of six months.
Safe Loading Pass records
An online database is also available to provide access to
relevant information, including:
n
Approved inspection providers.
n
Approved inspection technicians.
n
Tractors, trailers and rigid vehicles with a current safe
loading pass.
The database can be accessed with a username and
password provided by the scheme’s manager, and provides
extensive search and reporting facilities which may be used
by terminal operators and the management group.
Once assessed and approved, inspection providers are
also able to access the database to order new SLP booklets
via an online ordering system.
Enforcing the SLPS
Despite the scheme being voluntary, it is enforced at all
participating terminals. Although not every vehicle entering
a petroleum terminal may be subject to verification,
random checks are carried out. Terminals may also use the
online database to verify pass holders’ identity and pass
validity.
In addition, terminal operators may carry out their own
spot check of vehicles, checking critical elements of the
vehicle to ensure that it is safe to enter and load fuel at the
terminal. This provides an additional safety check and may
highlight potential problems with individual vehicles,
inspection providers or inspection technicians. Issues are
reported to the management group for resolution.
T&T
References
1. Council Directive 96/82/EC.
2. E.g. The European Agreement concerning the International
Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (2013 ADR).
