Supporting a National Fuel Supplier
Delivering Precision and Practicality across the UK for a National Fuel Supplier through Meson’s Testing, Inspection & Repairs Service.
STEP ONE
Navigating the Complexities of Hazardous-Area Compliance
In the world of hazardous-area electrical systems, inheriting an existing installation is rarely straightforward. Infrastructure often evolves over time, shaped by multiple contractors, ageing components, undocumented modifications, and inconsistent maintenance. In these situations, navigating compliance becomes as much about interpretation as it is about regulation.
The Challenge
With over 30 active depots across the UK, a leading national fuel supplier required a comprehensive assessment of their electrical systems to ensure ongoing safety and compliance. Some service providers, when faced with the complexity of hazardous-area electrical installations, choose to recommend a complete overhaul as the safest or simplest path. However, that approach is not always commercially viable or operationally necessary.
More effective solutions often come from technical insight, attention to detail, and a willingness to truly understand the site before drawing conclusions. Following an initial compliance review, the client sought a second opinion; one focused on finding a balanced, risk-based route forward rather than wholesale replacement.
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STEP TWO
What Is our Approach?
A Fresh Perspective
Meson Electrical Services were selected to provide that perspective, building on our reputation for delivering complex electrical and fuel infrastructure projects with precision and integrity.
Our team brought extensive expertise in DSEAR regulations, hazardous-area installations, and operational fuel systems. We approached the project with confidence that a structured, transparent methodology could deliver full compliance without unnecessary disruption or cost.
In fuel storage environments and other high-risk industries, electrical compliance is more than a tick-box exercise, it plays a critical role in protecting people, operations, and business continuity. Compliance also becomes particularly important during moments of change, such as business acquisitions, investment rounds, or organisational restructuring. In these situations, decision-makers and auditors expect clear, reliable evidence that electrical systems are safe and compliant. Demonstrating a structured, risk-based strategy not only protects the business but also enhances its credibility and value.
That’s why our approach places such strong emphasis on transparency, traceability, and documentation. From photographic records and prioritised remedial lists to consistent reporting aligned with client systems, we ensure our clients are ready for both day-to-day inspections and major audits.
A Different Way Forward
From the outset, our approach was open, honest, and practical. Rather than disregarding the previous recommendations, we set out to demonstrate a different way forward; one that kept people safe, met all compliance obligations, and avoided unnecessary disruption.
Starting with a pilot depot, our engineers carried out a full inspection and produced a detailed, evidence-based report. This gave the client confidence that we understood the site, the risks, and the options available. It also allowed us to align our recommendations with their internal processes and operational needs, setting the tone for a professional, well-structured rollout.
Our inspection methodology followed BS EN 60079-17, incorporating visual, close, and detailed levels of assessment. Each inspection type served a specific purpose, from non-intrusive visual checks to power-isolated internal examinations. By carefully mapping each depot’s condition against the standard and reviewing real-world risk factors, we pinpointed which areas required immediate action and which could be addressed through phased improvements. This avoided a complete overhaul and focused investment where it was truly needed.
Following the success of the pilot, we implemented a tailored three-year inspection cycle across the entire estate. This ensured that each depot received a balanced rotation of inspection types each year. Over the full cycle, every area of every site is reviewed at all three levels, providing complete coverage with minimal disruption.
| Ref | Fault Grade | System / Location | Equipment | Description of Fault | Recommended Action | Standard Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EICR Item 1 | FI (Further Investigation) | Main Supply | Earthing Arrangement | TN-C-S system earth leakage reading exceeds 100 mA and is unsuitable for hazardous area classification. | Isolate at mains and retest at source to confirm integrity of earthing arrangement. | BS 7671:2018 – Reg. 542.1 / 60079-17 Sec. 4.3 |
| ZPN6 Item 1 | C2 (Potentially Dangerous) | Loading Skid | Emergency Stop 1 | Equipment enclosure shows signs of water ingress, compromising internal components. | Replace with suitably rated Ex e or Ex d certified emergency stop assembly. | BS EN 60079-17 – Clause 4.4.2 |
| ZPN6 Item 4 | C2 (Potentially Dangerous) | Loading Skid | Bulkhead Light LGT6 | Luminaire in poor condition with degraded seals and corroded fixings. | Replace with ATEX-certified LED bulkhead light of equivalent specification. | BS EN 60079-17 – Clause 4.4.3 |
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STEP THREE
What’s the Result?
The client now benefits from a robust, evidence-led compliance strategy that supports long-term asset management and day-to-day operations. By working with us to inspect and improve their sites in a structured way, they have avoided unnecessary costs while maintaining operational continuity. Our work has provided reassurance, accountability, and a scalable framework for future improvement backed by data and delivered at a pace that suits the business.
This project reflects Meson’s broader philosophy: practical compliance, built on commercial awareness. We aim to extend the lifecycle of safe systems and guide our clients through the grey areas with honesty, technical clarity, and commercial understanding.
Our long-term partnerships across the UK fuels sector demonstrate that compliance and commercial priorities can coexist with the right expertise, attention to detail, and willingness to do things the right way.
Speak to our team today.
0113 286 4300
enquiries@mesonelectrical.com
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