The system includes three double skinned fuel tanks of 15,000 litre capacity in a purpose built recessed bund on the quaywall walkway. Lockable filling point cabinets contain equipment such as gauges, alarms and tank fills, with the alarms linked to the harbour control centre. A petrol uploading pump is installed for fuelling the unleaded tank. Each tank has an in-tank submersible pump (with in-built leak detection facilities) to pump fuel from the tank farm area over the quaywall to the pontoon based fuelling dispensers.

Flexible delivery pipes are protected within an articulated carrier and formed into a hanging loop, allowing fuel lines free movement to cater for the pontoon rise and fall and offering essential protection from mechanical damage. Where the lines end at the fuelling pontoon there are swivel joints and specialist dry break couplings for extra protection from adverse weather and tides.

There are four sections to the pontoon, two of which can be detached during winter. Special coupling arrangements for the fuel lines and electrical services allow this to be done easily and safely.

The pontoon has a cabin with control and telecommunications equipment, whilst ladders and platforms offer access from the pontoon to the top of the quaywall whatever the tide.

Safety cut-off points can be activated from the fuelling pontoons or quaywall tanks and leak detection devices automatically notify the harbour safety monitoring facility as well as activating a beacon and sirens on the quayside.

Commenting on the project, Cameron Forecourt operations manager Terry Smith said, ‘There were engineering difficulties to overcome. Techniques used on sea based oil platforms for safety and environmental protection were employed. Specific features ensure a tough and reliable system to meet the strict guidelines of the Jersey Harbour Authority and Petroleum Fire Safety Inspectorate.’