19
Sloping ground:
When the slope of the ground is 5% or more, it is recommended to install a retaining wall to protect
the tank from the lateral thrust. Concrete backfill may also in some cases be sufficient to protect
the tank. A qualified structural engineer must determine if a retaining wall is required in the
presence of a steep slope as shown in the picture below:
Proximity to rolling & static loads:
Minimum separation distances from:
•
Rolling loads (e.g., vehicle traffic): 4 metres
•
Static loads (e.g., dwelling house, shed): 3 metres
If the tank installation is in an area where traffic or other superimposed loadings can be
applied, consult a structural engineer for the design of a reinforced concrete slab to prevent
any load getting transferred to the tank (or its concrete surround). If this slab is constructed
immediately above the tank, separate it from the surrounding concrete by a compressible
material.
