‘You must assess the risks associated with transporting fuel in jerry cans’

By Alistair March 27, 2019 07:23

Petrol powers a large amount of our small machinery and our vehicles. We’re all familiar with petrol’s distinctive smell, but are you aware of the potential danger that this vapour carries with it?

If your business is still transporting fuel in jerry cans then you must assess the potential risks associated with this.

The flashpoint of petrol is −43 °C, what this means is that above this temperature petrol produces enough gas or vapour to support combustion. Petrol vapour is heavier than air, does not disperse easily and may spread over a large area. Petrol has a tendency to sink to a low level and may collect in cavities, pits or drains where there is little air movement.

If you’re transporting petrol in a can / boot you should be especially aware of the dangers of petrol. Most vehicles are loaded with potential sources of ignition.

There are alternatives to eliminate these potential risks of incident if your business relies on petrol for its operation.

Purpose-made petrol caddies are built in various sizes with fire protective properties and have a number of safety features you can’t get with a jerry can. These units are available with pumps and nozzles so the petrol can be safely transferred into the appropriate receptacle. Petrol can generate static electricity in free fall which is a potential source of ignition. An appropriate pump, hose and petrol nozzle is a far safer way of dispensing the petrol.

“Alternatively, an onsite petrol tank will mean that the petrol is brought to you by a purpose built petrol tanker. Our units are complete bunded units with a 60 minute fireproof jacket and a number of pumping options. Get in contact with us and we will be happy to discuss your best option for a safe business operation,” said a spokesman for The Petrol Tank Company.