Toolbox Meeting 15 -- MISUSE OF GASOLINE

More serious burn accidents on construction jobs result from gasoline fires than from any other single cause. Here are three typical gasoline burn accidents:

1. Burning brush while clearing site. Gasoline was thrown on pile which was smoldering. Flashback caused severe burns.
2. Fueling generator engine. Gasoline spilled on exhaust and ignited. Worker seriously burned and equipment destroyed.
3. Gassing up rig. Gas spilled on helper's clothes and over platform close to heater. Gasoline ignited and caught helper's clothes on fire. Severe burns of right arm and leg resulted.

Gasoline evaporates rapidly and the vapor can travel a considerable distance to a source of ignition, such as an open fire, a hot engine or a cigarette. The vapor is easily ignited and very explosive. Some rules for safe use of gasoline are:

1. Do not start fires with gasoline.
2. Do not smoke when handling gasoline.
3. Do not use gasoline for cleaning.
4. Do not put gasoline in open pails or glass containers -- use a safety can.
5. Shut off all engines before refueling.
6. Small engines should be fueled slowly, using a funnel to prevent spillage.
7. Watch nozzle when fueling large engines -- do not allow to overflow.

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION:
1. Why do many burns occur when fueling gasoline engines?
2. Why should gasoline be used only as a motor fuel?

For more information read Section 14 - Hazard Communications - in the Elevator Industry Field Employees' Safety Handbook