Nqpetro has completed a major underground storage tank system (USTS) upgrade in Piccadilly, WA, delivering improved safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.
Matt Logan
Nqpetro recently delivered a major USTS (Underground Storage Tank System) upgrade in Piccadilly, WA, meeting our client’s global standards for safety, compliance, and environmental protection. Led by our Project Manager, Matt Logan, the project was executed with precision and a strong focus on risk management.
The site required double-wall relining of four existing single-wall steel tanks. This upgrade not only extended the life of the tanks but also introduced an interstitial monitoring space to track integrity throughout their next lifecycle. Additionally, it was an opportunity to optimise fuel storage capacity for improved product offering.
• Double-wall relining of all tanks
• Fuel removal, tank cleaning, and interstitial space creation
• Demolition and installation of new concrete pavements
• Complete fuel pipework replacement
• Installation of manway tank access
• Pump upgrades, including power and communications
• Installation and commissioning of Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG)
• Supply and install of our client’s-standard fuel electrical board
• Linemarking and painting
• All permit writing, including for hot works
The electrical component of the upgrade was also significant. This included a full fuel system electrical replacement, a new main electrical board upgrade for compliance, and the replacement of a meter board due to asbestos backing.
The team also installed and commissioned a TLS450 Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG) system.
These works were delivered by Nqpetro’s licensed hazardous area electricians in coordination with local electrical contractors and certified asbestos handling specialists to ensure safety and compliance throughout.
Confined space entry for tank relining was one of the highest-risk activities. Nqpetro, in collaboration with our client’s HSSE teams, initiated a rigorous pre-site planning process. A key control measure was the implementation of a tank flushing procedure to reduce LEL (Lower Explosive Limit) gas readings to 0%, ensuring safe tank entry.
Operating in Kalgoorlie posed logistical challenges, especially with the majority of components sourced from Eastern Australia. The site is a 6–7 hour drive from Perth, and with a freight lead time of up to 10 days, strategic planning was essential to avoid downtime.
Additionally, securing trades in Kalgoorlie—where resources are often prioritised for large-scale mining projects—meant some skilled teams were mobilised from Perth to ensure delivery deadlines were met.
This project demonstrates Nqpetro’s ability to deliver fuel infrastructure solutions in remote, high-risk environments—on time and to the highest safety and compliance standards.
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