Gas Cans & Equipment Refueling

Several vehicle fires have occurred as a result of filling metal portable gasoline cans while placed on the back of pickup trucks with plastic bed liners. The insulating effect of the plastic surface prevents the static charge generated by the gasoline flowing into the gas can from grounding. As static charge builds, it can create a static spark between the gas can and the fuel nozzle. When the spark occurs in the flammable range in the gasoline vapor space near the open mouth of the gas can, a fire can occur.  Some tips:

1. Do not fill any container while it is inside a vehicle, a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed, or on any surface other than the ground.
2. Use only an approved container with a cap that fits tightly.
3. Remove the approved container from the vehicle and place it on the ground.  Keep the container a safe distance away from the vehicle, other customers, and traffic.
4. Keep the nozzle in contact with the can during filling.
5. Fill container about 95% full to allow for expansion.
6. If gasoline spills on the container, make sure it is evaporated before putting it in your vehicle.

Equipment Refueling

1. Shut off motor on equipment and give motor time to cool off before refueling.
2. Don’t refuel near an open flame or near a sparking situation.
3. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
4. Don’t spill the fuel.
5. Don’t overfill the fuel tank.  On hot days, allow for expansion.

Does your gas can meet OSHA requirements?  Stay safe.  Only use approved gas cans.
OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1926.152(a)(1) states "Only approved containers and portable tanks shall be used for storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids.  Approved safety cans or Department of Transportation approved containers shall be used for the handling and use of flammable liquids in quantities of 5 gallons or less.  A safety can is (29CFR1926.155(1) an approved, closed container, of not more than 5 gallons capacity, having a flash arresting screen, spring closing lid and spout cover and so designed that it will safely relieve internal pressure when subjected to fire exposure.

Safety Tips Provided by: Simplified Safety “We Make Fall Protection Simple” (www.simplifiedsafety.com)