Interceptor Installation

Considerations

When required, installing an oil interceptor is a critical component of site pollution prevention - and one that demands careful planning, technical expertise, and precision. GPT bring extensive experience in supplying and installing a wide range of oil interceptors, with a deep understanding of the variables that influence the need, complexity and success of these projects.

Several site-specific factors must be considered, including:

Size and type of the system

Depth of installation

Ground conditions

Existing underground services and drainage infrastructure

The operation and maintenance of oil separators is governed by BS EN 858:2:2003 Separator Systems for Light Liquids (e.g. Oil and Petrol)We design every interceptor install project to ensure compliance with these regulations. Our team of experts have the technical knowledge and field experience to overcome site challenges, ensuring a fully compliant, fit-for-purpose installation.

During these projects GPT provide:

Groundwater Management Conducting surveys and implementing systems to manage groundwater levels during excavation and installation.

Surface Water Control Managing surface water run-off during the project, including temporary drainage diversion and over-pumping where required.

Service Surveys Identifying underground utilities such as water, electricity, gas, and telecoms which must be considered during installation.

Geotechnical Investigations Assessing ground conditions to confirm suitability for excavation and long-term stability of the interceptor tank.

Specialist Component Installation Specification and install of components such as high oil level alarms, which must be calibrated accurately.

What are Interceptors?

'Interceptor' and 'Separator' are different terms for the same piece of equipment. Aninterceptor (or separator) is a device installed within a drainage system to prevent upstream harmful pollutants, specifically light non-aqueous phase liquids (LNAPLs) such as oil, from entering the water environment. Most oils will float on the surface of the water and are retained for collection. Suspended solids are a significant pollutant which are also retained within an interceptor by ensuring the size/design is sufficiently robust to ensure laminar flow, allowing suspended solids to settle out within the chamber(s).

To enhance performance, interceptors may include components such as coalescing filters to improve oil-water separation, and/or automatic shut-off devices that activate in the event of excessive oil accumulation. Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure proper functionality of these components.

Interceptors are typically required on sites where activities pose a risk of water pollution - such as vehicle washing, refuelling, or areas with bulk oil storage or high-risk runoff (e.g from roads, yards, or car parks). In the UK, their use may be necessary to remain compliant with environmental legislation.

While installation costs can vary, especially for larger or retrofitted systems, the environmental protection and legal compliance interceptors provide make them a critical investment for many sites. Get in touch for expert advice on interceptor installation.

Next up... Maintenance

Installing the interceptor is just the beginning of our service.

We provide every client with a monitoring and maintenance plan to ensure safe, efficient, and economical operation of the interceptor system throughout its life cycle. This helps protect your investment while maintaining ongoing compliance with environmental regulations.

Visit our interceptor audit and intereceptor service pages to learn more about our maintenance packages.