As fuel prices rise, WorkSafe New Zealand is reminding businesses that petrol is extremely hazardous, and improper petrol storage puts workers, property and the public at serious risk. Petrol vapours can ignite from heat, sparks, static, running engines or electrical equipment.
Workplaces must only store what they can safely and legally manage.
Unsafe storage of petrol is dangerous
Petrol gives off flammable vapours that can ignite easily. Vapour exposure can cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, loss of coordination, and in high concentrations, unconsciousness or death. Improper storage - such as in enclosed areas or non-approved containers - can quickly turn a workplace into an ignition zone.
Even small quantities stored incorrectly or in the wrong place can create a fire and potentially cause life-threatening conditions.
What workplaces must do
WorkSafe guidance requires petrol to be stored only in approved containers, with portable containers limited to 25 litres, filled to no more than 95%.
A location compliance certificate must be held to store more than 50 litres of petrol. You must engage a compliance certifier who will assess whether the site meets the requirements in the regulations before issuing a certificate.
Register of compliance certifiers(external link)
Approved containers must be kept away from ignition sources, protected from direct sunlight, and never stored in vehicles or enclosed spaces where vapours can accumulate.
These requirements aren't optional, they exist to keep people safe.
Don't create unnecessary risk
Workplaces should avoid storing petrol in spaces not designed or ventilated for flammable liquids, such as garages, back rooms, or shipping containers. Everyday electronics can create sparks capable of igniting vapour.
Tips for the safe storage and use of petrol in workplaces
- Petrol must be stored well away from any potential ignition sources including:
- No naked lights in the vicinity of petrol.
- Do not smoke near petrol.
- Never store petrol containers or equipment with petrol tanks near a flame, for example natural gas water heaters or heating systems.
- Do not leave petrol containers in direct sunlight or in the boot of a car.
- Do not use electronic equipment near petrol. A spark from the electronics could ignite the petrol.
- Never refuel a hot machine engine or a machine engine that is running. Shut down the engine and let it cool off for at least 10 minutes. The highest temperatures attained by a small machine engine occur immediately after shutdown, so it is not safe to refuel then.
- Use only approved petrol containers. When transporting containers, be sure they are secured in the vehicle. Fill containers to no more than 95% of the container to allow room for thermal expansion. Be sure your containers have secure lids.
- Never remove the cap from a petrol tank while the engine is hot: combustible vapour can flow out and come in contact with manifolds, exhaust pipes and other hot engine parts.
- When fuel is transferred from a container into a vehicle, follow basic health and safety precautions:
- Decant (pour) in the open air - not inside buildings.
- Use a pouring spout or funnel.
- If clothing is splashed with fuel, change it immediately.
