The Hydrocarbon Oils Team, at Eurofins Forensics Services Limited, analyse fuel samples sent to them by HMRC and subsequently report and interpret the results of analysis back to HMRC. When requested, the team will also provide expert advice and expert witnesses to HMRC.

The Hydrocarbon Oils Team have developed dedicated analytical methods that are specifically designed to identify fuel markers in scenarios commonly seen by HMRC.

The analytical methods used to detect fuel markers meet the ISO17025 (International Organisation for Standardisation) quality standard and are independently assessed and accredited the United Kingdom Accreditation Service.

To distinguish between the higher taxed and lower taxed fuels markers are added to the lower taxed fuel so it’s easily identified (i.e. ‘red diesel’).

The marked and lower taxed fuel may not:

• Be put into vehicles driven on public roads.
• Be mixed with different marked fuels or any other hydrocarbon oils.
• Have the markers masked or removed (laundered).

To support HMRC with their work related to the Hydrocarbon Oils Duties Act 1979 (and other associated related laws) Eurofins Forensic Services Limited has been contracted by HMRC to provide scientific analysis and expert witness work.

Eurofins Forensic Services Limited is approved by the Treasury in accordance with Schedule 5 of the Hydrocarbon Oil Duties Act of 1979, allowing then to carry out the work.