Fuel Handling

Fuel Handling – Watch Out for “Normalization”

There is an apprehension that the safety concerns surrounding the use of gasoline in firefighting operations can get “normalized”. In firefighting, we use gasoline for a variety of applications, including pumps, chainsaws, vehicles, drip torches, etc.

“Normalization” of hazards or risks is when we get comfortable around these hazards and take shortcuts without consequence. After a while, we can get so comfortable with these shortcuts that we forget about the original mitigation to reduce the hazard or risk.

1. What do we use gasoline for in our firefighting operations?
2. What risks are associated with our uses of flammable liquids?
3. What mitigations or procedures are in place for handling fuel?
4. What can you do to prevent being sprayed or doused in gasoline from gas tank pressure?
5. What should you do to extinguish someone who is on fire?

Check out this Rapid Lessons Shared (RLS) from 2015 that spotlights 14 instances of fuel igniting incidents reported in the past 5 years and discusses drip torch burn injuries.

Chainsaw Operators:

Watch this short safety video for information on preventing fuel leakage, identification of potential vapor lock/tank pressurization, mitigation measures for vapor lock/tank pressurization, and reporting procedures for future occurrences: Chainsaw Safety.