FIRE PREVENTION IS THE GOAL WHEN REFUELING 

While it’s easy to let your refueling routine slip, it’s important to remain alert and aware of the dangers of refueling. 

DANGERS OF REFUELING EQUIPMENT 

• Improper fueling techniques can have deadly consequences. Vapors from these liquids can ignite with explosive force from no more than a spark.
• Fuel spills resulting from poor refueling procedures can cause needless damage to the environment.
• Inhalation of gasoline fumes can cause nausea, dizziness, headaches, and loss of coordination.
• Once ignited, fires from liquid fuels can be very difficult to extinguish, as they often spread quickly.

STATIC ELECTRICITY DANGER 

It’s important to be aware of any source that could cause a spark or static electricity. Grounding the machine with a ground wire or dropping mounted equipment reduces the risk of static electricity. Remain still while refueling. Walking around, entering and exiting the machinery could result in a static charge build-up. Electronic devices, including cellphones or MP3 players, can also cause static electricity and shouldn’t be used when refueling. Open flames are also dangerous — items like cigarettes and butane torches need to be kept away from designated refueling areas. Exposing fuel to sparks, static electricity and open flames could result in explosions and fire.

KEY POINTS 

• Know why liquid fuels can cause life-threatening situations and know how to prevent them.
• Take the time to learn about the fuels that you work with and know how to safely handle them.
• Respect the process of refueling—always work thoughtfully and carefully.
• Practice safe procedures when it comes to storing, handling, and dispensing the fuels that you use.
• Understand the importance of preventing and reacting to costly spills.
• Know how to respond to emergencies, such as fires or contamination, if they occur.
• Always adhere to OSHA regulations, which are in place to ensure a safe work environment.

BEST SAFE WORK REFUELING PRACTICES

In general, gloves and safety glasses must be worn by anyone administering fuel to equipment. Here are some other helpful suggestions on how to foster a safe work environment and safe work practices.

• Make sure stationary storage fuel tanks have proper ventilation and are well out of the way of buildings. If they are not buried, they should be grounded.
• Transport gasoline in a closed, vented container.
• Check tanks daily for leaks.
• Make sure static chain is attached.
• Keep the metal fill nozzle in contact with the lip of the tank so no static builds up.
• Don’t over-fill tanks.
• Utilize a three-point system when climbing on or off equipment.
• Refrain from smoking during the fueling process.
• Make sure there are no open fires or welding in the fueling zones.
• Equipment should be turned off prior to fueling equipment.
• Do not get on equipment until it has been shut off.
• Do not leave fuel pumping unattended.
• Wear proper fall protection.

FINAL WORD

Refueling happens so frequently that it is easy to get complacent about it. However, it must be remembered that diesel and gasoline are designed to cause explosions—hopefully within an engine.