Big changes
As we are sure you will remember; earlier in the year the Government announced that from 1st April 2022 rebated fuel (red diesel) must not be put into the tank of any vehicle, machine or appliance that is on our sites or used in our operations. This meant that any stocks of this fuel at our locations had to be run down before 1st April 2022, and we could only use up rebated fuel after 1st April 2022, if the fuel was legally put into the vehicle or machine before 1st April 2022 and we can demonstrate this.
Fuel thefts on the increase
Figures released by UK Policing in August shows reporting of diesel theft is up 30% in recent months. The construction and logistics industries in particular have been targeted for large-scale fuel thefts since April. UK Security Manager, Colin Jones, commented: “We must do all we can to protect ourselves, protect our business and the assets and commodities we use.”
Improved processes
This year we have taken several steps to improve our handling of fuel on our Readymix sites. A new, standardised process for issuing and recording fuel usage has been introduced across all sites, with high levels of uptake. We now have clear visibility of any fuel variances, which can then be investigated and approved by the appropriate management.
Site equipment
All Readymix sites with fuel tanks will also shortly be receiving both a new fuel security sign, and a ‘smart’ digital padlock. There is no need to procure your own signs or padlocks. The new locks work in conjunction with a smartphone, which will also be delivered to site, and they keep a digital record of who accesses the tank, where, and when. In addition to the signage and lock, several sites deemed as high risk for fuel theft will also be receiving additional security improvement items, including a new tank alarm and PIR solar powered light. These sites are Leighton Buzzard, Eastbourne, Huyton, Crewe and Bedford.
Support
For any support with the new fuel recording process or new padlocks, please contact the EXCEED Operational Excellence team. For any general security questions or concerns, please contact Colin Jones and John Sweeting from the UK Security team.
Product catalogue
We have produced a list of the additional security items we are deploying on our high-risk sites. Should you wish to replicate this good practice and deploy the items on more of your sites, you can find them at the following vendors on the list which you can find on the UK News download page here: Fuel Security catalogue update (964 downloads)