The objective of vapour recovery systems is to reduce emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC) into the atmosphere from road tanker and vehicle re-fuelling activities at service stations, in order to reduce the adverse impact of VOC on human health and the environment.

Petrol contains VOC, carbon-based chemicals that evaporate readily into the atmosphere. Once emitted to air, VOC are associated with several health and environmental problems:

  • Formation of ground-level ozone and photochemical smog
  • Poor local air quality (benzene in air)
  • Atmospheric warming and climate change

We are approved assessors for all types of vapour recovery systems.
For further information contact us on info@keohane.ie

Petroleum Vapour Emissions Testing

Petrol filling stations are legally obliged to be fitted with a Stage 1b vapour recovery system. This enables petrol vapour to be recovered from the underground tanks during petrol deliveries.

Stations are also obliged to hold a Certificate of Testing. An approved assessor will carry out relevant tests and submit a report to the local authority. The local authority will issue a Certificate of Testing which is valid for 3 years.

Stage 2 Vapour Recovery Testing

Petrol filling stations built or receiving a major refurbishment since 1st January 2012 are obliged to be fitted with Stage 2 vapour recovery systems to the petrol pumps. This recovers petrol vapor from the customers tanks during dispensing of petrol.

The contractor installing the Stage 2 fuel pumps should furnish the necessary documentation to enable an application for a Certificate of Installation. This application should be submitted to your local authority.

Stations are also obliged to hold a Certificate of Testing. An approved assessor will carry out relevant tests and will submit a report to the local authority. The local authority will then issue a Certificate of Testing.

The duration of the Certificate of Testing is either 1 year or 3 years depending on the type of Stage 2 vapour recovery system fitted to your pumps. This should be taken into consideration when choosing which type of pump to purchase.