Groundwater Protection Code: Solvent Use and Storage
Under the Groundwater Regulations 1998,
Ministers may approve codes of practice for activities which could result
in the pollution of groundwater. To this end the Department has published
a Groundwater Protection Code: Solvent Use and Storage.
Since solvents are used in a wide range of businesses and activities, it is not practical for the code to be a prescriptive list of procedures to be followed in all circumstances. Instead the philosophy adopted in the code is to provide a framework of advice, the scope of the various elements of which can be adjusted to reflect the size, type and environmental context of the individual activity. In order to be helpful to smaller businesses, however, self-contained sections (covering activities such as handling, storage and disposal of solvents) set out fairly detailed lists of actions which may need to be considered when deciding how best to avoid groundwater pollution. These lists, which are based on current good practice principles and techniques, are for guidance only - it is up to the user to follow the guidance, or take other measures, to ensure that the Groundwater Regulations are complied with in a specific case.
The code is not intended to cover health and safety issues or aspects of environmental protection other than groundwater. It does not, therefore, replace any codes or guidance addressing such matters.
The document has been made Adobe Acrobat 
format for downloading and printing as follows:
- English text (192 KB)
- Welsh text (299 KB)
The Adobe Acrobat Reader can be freely downloaded. Viewers with visual difficulties may find it useful to investigate services provided to improve the accessibility of Acrobat documents - http://access.adobe.com
In the case of relatively large Acrobat files, readers may find it useful to save the file directly onto their own PC rather than opening it via their web browser. Using the Microsoft Internet Explorer web browser right-click on the link, select "Save Target As", and choose a suitable location on your PC; using the Netscape web browser right-click on the link and choose "Save Link As".
Printed copies of the code, available in English and Welsh can be obtained free of charge from Defra Publications, Admail 6000, London, SW1A 2XX, Tel: 08459 556000, Email: defra@iforcegroup.com
Contacts
Email: wq.enquiries@defra.gsi.gov.uk
Further information
- Guidance on the Groundwater Regulations 1998
- Groundwater protection code: sheep dip
- Groundwater protection code: petrol stations
- Groundwater protection code: solvents
Page published: 29 July 2004