Bund Integrity Testing
Bund Integrity Testing | Hydrostatic & Visual Assessments
Bund Integrity Testing
Bunds are critical secondary containment structures, designed to prevent hazardous liquids from escaping into the environment. Whether newly constructed or long in service, bunds must demonstrate that they can safely contain spills, firewater, and rainfall. Regulators expect clear evidence of bund integrity — particularly at COMAH sites, fuel storage facilities, chemical plants, and manufacturing operations.
Arthian provides bund integrity testing that meets industry and regulatory expectations. For new bunds, we carry out hydrostatic testing to verify structural integrity and containment performance under load. For in‑service bunds, we deliver visual integrity assessments that identify defects, deterioration, and risks that could compromise containment. Our approach ensures bunds remain compliant, safe, and ready for operational duty.
Why Bund Integrity Testing Matters
Bund integrity failures can lead to environmental pollution, enforcement action, operational shutdowns, and significant remediation costs. Regulators increasingly expect dutyholders to demonstrate that bunds are structurally sound, watertight, and capable of containing hazardous liquids.
Arthian’s bund integrity testing provides:
- Evidence of structural integrity and watertightness
- Verification of bund capacity and freeboard
- Identification of cracks, leaks, and deterioration
- Assurance for COMAH safety reports and environmental audits
- Clear documentation for regulators, insurers, and internal governance
Our Bund Integrity Testing Capabilities
Hydrostatic Testing (New Bunds)
Hydrostatic testing is the most robust method of verifying bund integrity for new installations. Arthian manages the full process, including:
- Controlled water filling of the bund
- Monitoring water levels over a defined test period
- Assessing leakage, seepage, and structural movement
- Recording test data and performance metrics
- Confirming compliance with CIRIA C736 expectations
Hydrostatic tests provide definitive evidence that a new bund is watertight and structurally capable of containing hazardous liquids.
Visual Integrity Assessments (In‑Service Bunds)
For bunds already in operation, visual integrity assessments provide a practical, regulator‑aligned method of verifying containment performance. Our engineers inspect:
- Cracks, spalling, and surface deterioration
- Joint failures and sealant degradation
- Lining condition and chemical compatibility
- Drainage systems, penstocks, and isolation valves
- Evidence of leakage, staining, or chemical attack
All findings are documented with photographs, severity ratings, and recommended remedial actions.
Lining Integrity & Chemical Compatibility
Bund lining systems must remain intact and compatible with stored materials. We assess:
- Coating integrity and adhesion
- Membrane condition and blistering
- Chemical compatibility risks
- Areas requiring recoating or replacement
This ensures bund linings continue to provide reliable containment.
Drainage & Isolation System Verification
Drainage systems must maintain containment integrity during normal and emergency conditions. We verify:
- Penstock valve operation
- Sump condition and pump‑out arrangements
- Oil‑water separator performance
- Firewater containment pathways
Capacity & Freeboard Confirmation
Integrity testing is supported by volumetric checks to ensure the bund still meets capacity requirements. We provide:
- Updated volumetric calculations
- Freeboard assessment
- Firewater containment review
Testing Outputs & Deliverables
- Hydrostatic test results or visual assessment findings
- Photographic evidence
- Defect register and severity ratings
- Compliance commentary
- Recommended remedial actions
- Prioritised repair schedule
- Costed recommendations
- Long‑term maintenance strategy
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you assess bund capacity and containment compliance?
Yes—our surveys include bund volume modelling and containment strategy assessments aligned with COMAH containment policy and CIRIA C736.
Can you help with bund compliance and containment strategy?
Absolutely. We assess bund capacity, permeability, and structural integrity, and model containment scenarios aligned with COMAH containment policy.
Do you assess bund integrity and capacity?
Yes—we offer bund permeability testing, capacity modelling, and structural appraisal aligned with CIRIA C736 and COMAH containment policy.
Get in Touch
We’d love to hear from you – whether you have a question, a project in mind, want to explore job opportunities, or just want to say hello.