Bund Wall Lining is required by the legislation for many different types of chemical and liquid storage tank and vessel installations, primarily as primary containment in the event of a leak or spillage. The lining is normally made of GRP or epoxy and is inert to the chemicals or liquid being stored.

Often referred to as “berms” or “dykes”, the walls of a bund are typically constructed from either earth or concrete, and are designed to be liquid tight and to withstand a full hydrostatic head. When a tank suffers a leak or spillage the bund prevents the leaked material from flowing directly into process areas.

Crafting Containment: The Art and Science of Bund Wall Lining Installation

Over time and through repeated use, the integrity of a bund may deteriorate. Cracks in the concrete, corroded reinforcement bars, gaps and un-sealed joints can all compromise the integrity of the bund and lead to leakage. Unsealed pipe penetrations can also lead to contaminant ingress. The growth of vegetation including fungus and mould is a clear indication that the bund has become porous.

The law requires a periodic bund integrity assessment. This usually consists of a visual inspection and low-level hydrostatic testing (normally in the form of a sand or grit blast to remove the existing liner). This should include all bund walls, joints, junctions, pipe penetrations and the tank base. The legal requirements will specify how frequently this needs to be done and the methods for assessing the bund’s integrity. This is generally specified in the site’s licence or permit issued by the local authority.