Static electricity-related fires at fueling stations are rare, but the risk can increase when conditions are cool and dry. For fleet drivers who spend more time at the pump than the average motorist, following a few basic refueling practices can help reduce the chance of a static discharge or other fueling-related incident.

The American Petroleum Institute offered a list of safe vehicle refueling guidelines, including ways to avoid potential problems with static electricity discharges in fall, winter and early spring.

One of the most important precautions is simple: Do not get back into the vehicle while refueling.

Entering and exiting a vehicle can allow static electricity to build up, particularly in dry conditions. If a driver then reaches for the nozzle or fuel-fill area without first discharging that static electricity, a spark could ignite gasoline vapors near the fill point.

If a driver must re-enter the vehicle while fueling, they should touch a metal part of the vehicle away from the fuel-fill opening before returning to the nozzle.

Safe Refueling Practices for Fleet Drivers

Fleet managers can reinforce these basic fueling procedures with drivers:

• Turn off the vehicle engine before refueling.
• Place the vehicle in park and set the parking brake.
• Do not smoke or use matches or lighters near the fueling area.
• Do not get back into the vehicle while fuel is being dispensed.
• Use only the hold-open latch provided on the fuel nozzle. Never use another object to keep the nozzle open.
• Do not overfill or top off the fuel tank.
• Stay near the vehicle and monitor the fueling process.

What to Do if a Fire Starts

If a fire occurs while refueling, drivers should not attempt to remove the nozzle from the vehicle. Instead, back away from the vehicle and immediately alert the station attendant so the pumps can be shut down using the facility's emergency controls.

At an unattended fueling location, drivers should use the emergency fuel shut-off and call for emergency assistance.

Filling Portable Fuel Containers Safely

Portable gasoline containers also require additional precautions. Use only an approved fuel container and always place it directly on the ground before filling. Portable containers should not be filled while inside a vehicle, trunk, pickup bed, or trailer.

Keeping the container on the ground helps reduce the possibility of static electricity igniting fuel vapors.

For fleet managers, these procedures are simple enough to incorporate into driver safety meetings, fueling policies, and new-driver training. Static-related incidents may be uncommon, but consistent fueling habits can help keep a routine stop at the pump from becoming a preventable safety event.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in January 2001 based on tips from API and has been updated with current refueling safety guidance to make sure the information remains relevant for today’s fleets and drivers.