PETROL - 19.12.2005

Fuel up

What are the risks?

Petrol, or to give it it’s technical name Petroleum Spirit, is a highly flammable liquid which can give off an explosive vapour, even at very low temperatures. This means there’s always a risk of a fire or explosion if a source of ignition is present. The risks were highlighted in an accident which resulted in an 18-year-old apprentice mechanic being killed. He was caught up in an explosion and subsequently died from the severe burns he received. The Health and Safety Executive prosecuted the garage owner, finding him guilty of breaching s.2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. He was sentenced to a fine of £10,000 with costs of £15,000.

Strict controls

The introduction of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) in 2002 did away with many of the regulations associated with licences to store and dispense petroleum spirit. These regulations set out a framework that, among other things, covers the storage of highly flammable substances, including petrol.

Do you need a licence?

You won’t need a licence if you’re only storing very small amounts. You can store up to two, ten-litre metal containers or two, five-litre plastic containers of petrol before the regulations fully apply. However, they require containers to be purpose-designed, have a screw cap or closure to prevent leakage of the petrol or vapour, be marked accordingly and stored in a suitable flameproof enclosure, regardless of the quantity.

Tip. Only use containers that are designed purposely to hold petrol. They should be clearly marked PETROLEUM SPIRIT and HIGHLY FLAMMABLE

Control measures?

When transferring petrol from a container into a fuel tank, the following basic rules apply:

• no smoking or naked lights

• only decant petrol in the open air

• always use a pouring spout or funnel, preferably non-metallic

• if clothing is splashed change it immediately

• clean up any spillages immediately.

Tip.If carrying a petrol container in a vehicle, ensure it’s kept upright and secure to prevent spillage and make sure the cap is on tight to prevent vapour leakage.

Health risks

Apart from the obvious fire risk, petrol vapour can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat. Exposure to high concentrations can cause dizziness and unconsciousness.

What else do you have to do?

The DSEAR require you to carry out a suitable risk assessment and bring the findings to the attention of your employees. You should provide measures to eliminate or reduce, as far as is reasonably practicable, any identified risks and provide information and training to your employees on the use of petrol.

For a free petrol storage risk assessment visit http://healthandsafety.indicator.co.uk (HS 04.07.02)