Looking for quick answers?
Here are the most common questions people ask about tanker cleaning, standards, and NRTCA membership.
Industry Definitions
Industry Acronyms Explained. Click the link below to find out more.
Q:
Who are the NRTCA and what do you do?
The National Road Tanker Cleaners Association (NRTCA) is the trade body for tanker cleaning stations across the UK and Ireland. Since 1992, we’ve helped raise safety, quality, and environmental standards. We work closely with EFTCO, CEFIC, ITCO, ECTA, the HSE, the Environment Agency and Water Companies to keep you up to date and compliant.
Q:
How do I find an approved tank cleaning station near me?
Use our interactive map to search by postcode, town, or facility type. Each listing shows contact details, services (e.g. heating, food-grade, Kosher), and links to the company website—so you can choose the right site quickly.
Q:
What is SQAS and why does it matter?
SQAS (Safety & Quality Assessment System) is the European assessment used to check a cleaning station’s safety, quality, and environmental performance. It does issue a certificate and produces a detailed audit report. NRTCA membership means we've examined the details in-depth so you know members work to recognised standards.
Q:
What is the EFTCO Cleaning Document (ECD)?
The ECD is the standard European cleaning document. It proves how a tank was cleaned and uses codes that are understood across Europe. Each ECD has a unique number that traces back to the cleaning site, helping prevent fraud and delays at loading points.
Q:
Can I check if an ECD is valid?
Yes. If you need to confirm an ECD or a cleaning station’s status, contact the NRTCA with the ECD number and station details. We’ll help you verify quickly.
Q:
What is Kosher cleaning and who can do it?
Kosher cleaning is a special process for food-grade tanks, carried out under strict rules approved by the rabbinate. Only NRTCA members approved by the rabbinate can perform an official Kosher clean. You can filter for Kosher-approved sites on our map or view the full list on our Kosher Cleaning page.
Q:
How do I know if the last wash was a Kosher clean?
Check the EFTCO Cleaning Document (ECD). It will state either “Kosher cleaning including 30 minutes steam” or “Kosher Cleaning P26.” Keep this with your delivery paperwork to avoid issues at loading points.
Q:
What standard of “clean” do members work to?
We use the EFTCO definition of clean agreed with the NRTCA: “A tank is clean when there are no visible traces or odour of the last product or cleaning agent following an inspection from the man-lids.” If you need a higher standard (e.g. pipework, hoses, fittings), agree the extra process and commercial terms with the cleaning station before work starts.
Q:
What are the benefits of choosing an NRTCA member?
You get a consistent, audited standard (SQAS), recognised ECD documentation, trained teams, and a strong focus on safety, compliance, and the environment. This helps prevent contamination, cuts delays, and protects your reputation.
Q:
How do we join the NRTCA?
If you run a tank cleaning station in the UK or Ireland and meet the requirements, you can apply. You’ll need to submit your SQAS Tank Cleaning audit and supporting documents. Once accepted, you’ll be added to our member directory and map. See Membership for full details.
Q:
What do members get after joining?
Access to a secure Members Area (updates, guidance, meeting notes, templates), regular safety and legislation updates, biannual full-member meetings, and a recognised mark of quality that customers trust. Future features may include online renewals and payments. At our meetings we have open discussions around Health & Safety and share best practice.
Q:
I’m a member but can’t log in—what should I do?
Use the password reset on the login page. If you still can’t access your account, contact the NRTCA office with your site name and email so we can help you get back in.
Q:
Do NRTCA members all use the same cleaning documents and formats?
Yes. Members work within the SQAS framework and use the EFTCO Cleaning Document (ECD). This keeps terminology, codes, and records standardised across Europe and makes auditing easier.
Q:
What services can I expect at a cleaning station?
Services vary by site. Typical options include hot water/steam cleaning, heating, food-grade cleaning, Kosher cleaning, livery, and added facilities. Use the map filters or check the site profile to confirm what’s available.
Q:
Who should I speak to about rules, incidents, or best practice?
Start with your chosen NRTCA member station for site-specific help. For standards, compliance questions, or industry updates, contact the NRTCA. We stay in frequent contact with the HSE, Environment Agency, and Water Companies to share relevant guidance with members.
Still have a question?
Call +44 (0)1977 607607 or get in touch via our Contact page.
We’re here to help you stay safe, compliant, and ready to load.