Fueling Equipment on Site

Jobsites fuel dozens of machines, generators and tools every day from fuel trucks, tanks and cans. Fires start from fuel spilled on hot engines, static sparks, and smoking or running engines nearby. A few habits prevent almost all of them.

• Equipment operators
• Laborers
• Fuel truck drivers

Every time you fuel

• Engine off, and let hot engines, exhausts and generators cool before refueling gasoline.
• No smoking, open flames or hot work nearby.
• Stay with the nozzle while fuel is flowing. Don’t prop it open and walk away.
• Don’t overfill; leave room for expansion.
• Wipe up drips before restarting.
• Use the right fuel: diesel, gasoline and DEF look different but get mixed up.

Cans and static

• Use approved safety cans (5 gallons or less) with self-closing lids and flame arresters, labeled with the contents.
• Fill cans on the ground, not in a truck bed or trailer. Plastic bed liners and carpet keep a static charge that can spark at the nozzle.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the can opening while filling.
• When transferring between metal containers, bond and ground them. See Grounding & Bonding.

Fuel trucks and tanks

• Fuel trucks and tanks should be set up away from traffic, excavations and ignition sources, with a clear path.
• Portable tanks need proper venting, labeling and, for larger tanks, secondary containment or diking as required.
• Hoses and nozzles must be in good condition, with no leaks.
• Post “No Smoking” signs at fueling areas.

Fire extinguisher

OSHA requires an extinguisher rated at least 10-B within 50 feet of wherever more than 5 gallons of flammable or combustible liquid is being used on a construction site. Know where it is and how to use it. See Fire Extinguishers.

Spills

• Spill kit (absorbent pads, socks, bags) at the fueling area
• Stop the flow, contain the spill, keep it out of drains and water
• Report spills; larger spills may require notifying environmental agencies
• Dispose of used absorbents properly

See Spill Response and Flammable Liquids.

Last updated: October 2, 2026