Safe Fuel Handling Practices (Gasoline)

Fire

• Report all fires to proper authorities.
• Flames from methanol or methanol-gasoline blends can be invisible.
• Know locations of portable fire extinguishers, fire blankets, fire alarms and eye/wash shower facilities and learn how to use them.
• Use a "B" or "AFFF" (light water) type fire extinguisher to fight flammable liquid fires.

First Aid

• If gasoline has been swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention immediately!
• If methanol or a methanol/gasoline blend has been swallowed, induce vomiting under the direction of a physician or Poison Control Center. Seek medical attention immediately!
• When overcome by vapors, if safe, move victim to fresh air. If not breathing, give artificial respiration or CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) as appropriate. Seek medical attention immediately!
• If splashed in eyes, flush with large amounts of water for 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses, if worn. Seek medical attention.
• If splashed on skin, remove contaminated clothing. Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water.

Health

• All fuels can be harmful or fatal if swallowed.
• Be aware, if fuel is swallowed, onset of serious health effects can be delayed 12 to 24 hours.
• All fuel vapors can be harmful if inhaled.
• All fuels can be harmful if absorbed through skin.
• All fuels are irritating to eyes and respiratory system.
• Some fuels made with gasoline contain benzene which is a cancer causing agent.

Handling

• Use flammable liquid handling precautions.
• Wear chemical goggles and nitrile gloves (additional protective clothing and equipment may be necessary in some instances).
• Keep flammable liquids in approved, labeled, closed containers.
• Use in well ventilated areas and control vapors. Be aware that vapors are not visible, are heavier than air, can travel along floor, and will settle in lower areas.
• When transferring flammable liquids, bond receiving container to source and ground source to earth.
• DO NOT smoke or use heat or spark producing equipment near vapors.
• DO NOT eat, smoke or drink where these products are handled, processed or stored.
• Never siphon by mouth.
• Wash hands thoroughly after handling any fuel.

Spills

• Notify proper authorities in the event of any spill you have not been trained to clean up.
• Stop, contain, and clean up small spills with an absorbent material.