Tool Box Talk: Refueling Equipment

“Refueling Equipment”

Refueling equipment is a necessary part of our work. We use heavy equipment on special projects, in activities such

as reclamation and construction, we use equipment such as generators, cranes and compressors and we also operate

light vehicles. Refueling however, presents some risks including risk of a fire and potential for serious injuries. As

such, it is important that this operation be conducted in as safe a manner as possible. Remember that gasoline and

fuel oils are manufactured to cause a controlled “explosion” at least in the engines of equipment but with the right

conditions this explosion can become uncontrollable.

Apply the following tips whenever equipment needs to be refueled:

• Concentrate on the task to be performed.

• Never smoke during refueling operations.

• Don’t refuel near an open flame or near a sparking situation.

• Keep a fire extinguisher in close proximity.

• If the equipment may accidentally move, chock the wheels.

• Always shut the engine off.

• If necessary, allow the engine to cool.

• Turn off cell phones and other devices that can create static electricity.

• For persons doing self refueling

Do not get back into your vehicle during refueling — even when using the nozzle’s automatic
hold-open latch. If you must reenter your vehicle, discharge the static electricity buildup when you

get out by touching the outside metal portion of your vehicle, away from the filling point, before

attempting to remove the nozzle. If a flash fire occurs during refueling, you should leave the

nozzle in the vehicle fill pipe and back away from the vehicle. Notify the station attendant at once

so that all dispensing devices and pumps can be shut off with emergency controls.

• When dispensing gasoline into a portable gasoline can, use only an approved container. Always place the

container on the ground and keep the pump nozzle in contact with the container when refueling to avoid a

static electricity ignition of fuel vapors. Containers should never be filled inside a vehicle, in the trunk, on

the bed of a pickup truck, a flat bed or on the floor of a trailer.

“ What WE permit to happen WE will be seen to be condoning.”

• Be sure both fuel dispensing tank and equipment are grounded.

• Don’t spill the fuel. (Spilled fuel is a safety, health and environmental hazard and money going down the drain)

• To avoid gasoline spills, do not over fill or top off your vehicle fuel tank. The fuel dispenser will shut off

automatically when the tank is full. On hot days, allow for expansion.

• Always clean up any spills.

Remember: If there is a refueling area, be sure it is clearly marked and keep the area neat at all times. Whether you

are filling a bulldozer or a chain saw, it’s better to do it properly than to risk an explosion that could ruin or end

your life and the life of those around you. Remember gasoline was designed to explode when ignited!

 

“Our character is basically a composite of our habits. Because they are consistent, often unconscious patterns, they

constantly, daily, express our character.” Stephen Covey

Thanks, TO