Safe used oil storage isn’t just good housekeeping — it’s a critical part of protecting your site, your workers, and the environment. For businesses that generate used oil through fleet maintenance, industrial processes, or mechanical work, how you store your fluids can directly impact regulatory compliance and long-term costs.
Mesa Environmental supports clients across the Southwest with expert used oil collection and recycling services. But before pickup ever happens, proper used oil storage plays a major role in preventing spills, fines, and equipment damage. This blog walks through the essentials of safe storage practices — from container choices to EPA-aligned containment solutions.
Why Proper Used Oil Storage Matters
Improper used oil storage exposes your business to unnecessary risk. Just one gallon of oil can contaminate up to one million gallons of water if released into the environment. In addition to fines or cleanup costs, improperly stored oil can create fire hazards, threaten employee safety, and complicate waste classification.
Mesa Environmental works with facilities that prioritize safety and compliance, and it all starts with how used oil is stored on-site. The EPA requires specific safeguards, and following best practices can also lower your costs over time by reducing cleanup, streamlining pickups, and keeping recyclable materials clean.
Choosing the Right Containers
One of the most important aspects of safe used oil storage is selecting approved, compatible containers that prevent leaks and environmental exposure. Drums or tanks should be tightly sealed to avoid vapor escape and made from materials that resist corrosion—such as steel or compatible plastics. It’s essential to avoid makeshift containers like open buckets, repurposed paint cans, or any vessels not specifically rated for oil storage.
Mesa’s pickup teams rely on clients using secure, clearly labeled containers to streamline service and reduce handling risks. When oil is stored in degraded, leaking, or unlabeled drums, it may be rejected for pickup or require additional mitigation steps—resulting in delays or extra charges. By investing in proper storage from the start, facilities can ensure faster service and stay aligned with environmental regulations.
Labeling & Segregation: Compliance Starts Here
Improperly labeled drums can result in fines or misclassified waste. Effective used oil storage requires attention to labeling and fluid segregation. To stay compliant:
- Clearly label all containers as “Used Oil”
- Keep used oil separate from other fluids like antifreeze, solvents, or fuel
- Mark the date oil was first stored, especially if accumulating large quantities
Mixing waste types can increase disposal costs or trigger hazardous waste classification. Mesa Environmental encourages clients to maintain clean, segregated storage areas to protect recycling streams.
Secondary Containment: An Essential Safeguard
Secondary containment is not just a best practice—it’s often a legal requirement, especially for facilities operating near stormwater systems or in environmentally sensitive areas. Proper containment supports safe used oil storage by preventing accidental leaks or overflows from spreading, helping to protect soil and water sources while keeping your operation compliant with EPA and state regulations.
Some of the most common and effective containment solutions include placing spill pallets beneath drums to catch minor leaks, installing bermed storage areas or curbed pads that can collect overflow, and using troughs or drip trays beneath valves and fittings. These systems should be able to hold at least 110% of the volume of the largest container and must be made of oil-resistant, non-porous materials. Routine inspections are essential to ensure these safeguards remain clean, intact, and functional.
Getting Ready for Pickup with Mesa Environmental
Once your used oil is stored correctly, preparing for pickup is simple. Mesa Environmental provides recurring or on-demand collection services across Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and beyond. Here’s how to get ready:
- Group containers together in an accessible, paved location
- Ensure drums are closed and upright with no visible leaks
- Confirm correct labeling so our team can classify and collect your materials efficiently
Mesa also provides documentation and tracking for every pickup, so you’re covered for inspections or audits. By storing your used oil properly, you make the recycling process safer, faster, and more cost-effective.
Storage Today, Sustainability Tomorrow
Used oil isn’t just a liability — it’s a valuable resource when handled properly. With the right storage practices, your business can reduce environmental risk, stay compliant with EPA regulations, and support a circular economy where oil is recycled and reused rather than discarded. Mesa Environmental makes it easy to turn responsible storage into reliable service. If your facility needs guidance or scheduling support, our team is ready to help you set up a safe, compliant used oil storage program from day one.