One of the most hazardous things we work with on-set is gasoline. We commonly have gas around for small electric generators.
Best practices when working with gasoline:
- Gas must always be stored in "approved" contains. Ideally, only use safety gas cans not cheap plastics containers that you see at big box stores. Safety gas cans have a number of safety features like: heavy duty metal can; vapor tight container but will allow excess pressure escape; usually have features for dispensing gas without spilling (The cheap plastics ones are notorious for spilling gas.); there is a flame arrestor, etc.
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| A couple safety gas cans; a new one on the left and an old one on the right. |
- Gas cans and fuel tanks on generators (or whatever you are dispensing gas into) should always have flame arrestors. These are the metal screens you see in the spout. Many people mistake it for being just a filter. It is there to prevent fire from entering the tank.
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| The metal screen in the spout is the flame arrestor. |
No Flame Arrestor: https://twitter.com/USCPSC/status/1392483843115003910
- Transport gas cans safely; the back seat of a car is not safe. A gas can should never be transported in the same space as people. Transport it in the trunk or back of a truck with the can secured so it cannot tip over.
- Never fill a gas can while it is in a vehicle. This includes the bed of a pickup truck. The can needs to be on the ground. There is a chance of static build-up otherwise. A static spark could start a fire.
- Be cognizant that that there are no nearby sources of ignition like open flames, smoking cigarettes, etc., anytime you are working with gasoline. Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. The smallest spark will ignite it. The flame will quickly travel back to the source.
- Turn-off whatever equipment, e.g. generator, before you fill it with gasoline. If it is running, it is a potential source of igniting gasoline vapors.
- Always keep gasoline stored in a cool place away from any possible sources of ignition like open flames. Never store gasoline in living quarters like in a house.
- Remember that not only is gasoline explosively flammable, it is also a toxic chemical. Do not breath the fumes or get it on your skin.
PS: More info:
PS: I just purchased a new safety gas can.
My old one, on the right, has issues. I have lost or misplaced the funnel that goes with it. It is a special funnel that fits on safety gas cans. I've been unable to find another one in stores. I'm thinking this style of can may no longer be manufactured. The other problem is the cap doesn't always fully close.
This new safety gas can has everything I am looking for: safe storage, and an easy to dispense flexible spout for no spills.
