This paper presents a systematic hazards identification methodology for liquid hydrocarbon fuel storage tanks, by applying a checklist technique on the accident causes and the relevant protection measures, in the framework of the SEVESO Directive series. A forum discussion with Greek industrial safety experts has been also organised by the authors in order to locate any lack of the methodology. Results are presented and discussed, and it is concluded that the present hazards assessment methodology helps to identify the major contributors to risk, to improve safety measures and to assist the analysis in these aspects. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.