The dangers of static electricity risk when handling fuel

On exiting or entering a car, it’s not uncommon to feel a zap of static electricity. This is generally not of any concern, provided you aren’t handling fuel.

In most vehicle refuelling scenarios, the risks posed by static electricity are well managed by the protections that are incorporated into the design of the refuelling pumps and the vehicle.

These ensure that the pump, the vehicle, and the person doing the refuelling are all earthed and therefore not able to develop a static electricity spark.

But you should refuel the vehicle in one continuous fill. Do not stop, re-enter the vehicle and then come out again, as this can also cause static electricity to be generated and increase the risk of it discharging in the form of a spark.

When filling a separate fuel container, such as a five-litre fuel can or portable boat fuel tank, it is extremely important that the container is out of the vehicle and placed on the ground before you start refuelling.

Do not refuel while the container is in the vehicle or, in the case of a ute, on the vehicle’s tray.

Place the container on the ground and keep one hand on the container while holding the fuel pump with the other. Take care not to overfill - it’s best to only fill up to 95 per cent of the container’s capacity.