Petrol F.S

Safety in Petrol Filling Stations
Petrol filling stations are particularly hazardous workplaces which are required to be licensed
because they store and sell a highly flammable liquid. The following details highlight some
hazards, which may exist, other than those controlled by the license conditions. They are by no
means exhaustive and will vary depending on your own particular business. As a starting point
use the blank sheet provided in this pack and carry out a simple risk assessment.
Main Types of Risk Managing the Risk

Vehicle Movement
There is considerable movement Devise a safe system of traffic movement, e.g. a one-way
of cars and other vehicles on the system for entering and exiting the forecourt.
forecourt which could lead to accidental Display clear information/warning signs setting out the
collision with structures, people traffic control arrangements.
and other vehicles. Provide sufficient designated parking areas close to the
shop and away from the pumps.
Provide mechanical protection to vulnerable structures
such as fuel tanks and liquified petroleum gas (LPG) storage areas.
Hazardous Substances
Some items of stock and chemicals used in Store all hazardous chemicals in their original containers.
the car wash and for general cleaning Obtain information on all substances stored and used in the
can be harmful. Exposure to them premises from manufacturers hazard data sheets.
through use, accidental spillage Train staff and provide appropriate protective clothing.
or leaks, can cause respiratory problems,
dermatitis or chemical burns.
Manual Handling
The removal of access covers to storage Eliminate all unnecessary manual handling.
tanks, moving LPG cylinders and Train staff in proper lifting techniques.
positioning of large cleaning fluid Provide suitable equipment e.g. keys for lifting manhole covers.
containers may cause back injury or Avoid lifting items which are too heavy - use a trolley or castors
muscular strains. where possible.
Slips, trips and falls

In Winter, snow and ice on the forecourt Supplies of industrial salt mixed with fine gravel should be kept
can present a risk to pedestrians from and spread on the forecourt during icy conditions and also used
falling and from skidding vehicles. Fuel promptly to absorb and clean up any fuel or oil spill.
and oil spillages on the forecourt can Staff should be trained on how to deal with minor fuel spillages.
present a slipping hazard.
Electricity
Accidents are mainly due to misuse of, or All electrical equipment used out of doors should be suitably
badly maintained, equipment and there is insulated and should be supplied through a circuit protected
an increased risk of electric shock when by a 30 mA Residual Current Device.
using equipment externally in a wet All electrical switchgear controlling machinery should be clearly
environment e.g. commercial labelled and readily accessible at all times.
vacuums and car washes. Ensure that the electrical installation used for mechanical car
washes is suitable for a wet environment and has adequate
protection from mechanical damage, considering the complexity
of the moving parts.
Fit a readily accessible emergency stop button to
mechanical car washes.
Fire Risks
Obstructed exits e.g. by stock Keep all escape routes and fire exits clear and make regular checks
and/or accumulations of packaging to ensure that this is the case.
can prevent escape and provide Clear rubbish regularly (remember sand used for cleaning or
fuel for fires. containing petrol spills will be flammable and should be disposed
of safely, by a hazardous waste disposal company if necessary).
Violence to Staff
Robbery of goods or cash may place staff Consider the use of closed circuit television, panic alarms and other
at risk of violence. security measures e.g. the use of pay windows at night.
Compressed Air Systems

The main risks arise from abuse of this Make sure that the air system is located within sight of the shop
equipment and from over inflation of attendant to ensure constant supervision.
vehicle tyres. Display clear information on the use of the air system e.g. the driver
should check the correct tyre pressures.
Train staff in the safe use of the equipment.
For Further Information:

Dispensing Petrol
Health & Safety Executive HS(G) 146
HMSO ISBN 0-7176-1048-9

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Petrol F.S

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Safety in Petrol Filling Stations

Main Types of Risk Managing the Risk

Slips, trips and falls

Compressed Air Systems

For Further Information:

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