Given the nature of their operations, fuel stations face a significantly higher fire risk than other retail outlets. However, forecourt owners can implement numerous measures to effectively mitigate these risks and ensure the safety of both visitors and staff.
Managing fire risk at fuel stations is crucial for ensuring the protection and safety of all who use the facilities. This article emphasises the genuine risks associated with the premises and the fire safety regulations designed to alleviate them.
Identification of Hazardous Areas
Hazardous area classification on the forecourt identifies workplace zones where there is a risk of explosion due to flammable gases, vapours or dust. In such areas, even the smallest spark can trigger explosions or intense fires, posing a considerable risk of severe injuries, fatalities and property damage.
The UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) identifies three types of hazardous areas where explosive gases might be present: hazardous area classification zones 0, 1 and 2.
- Zone 0: Explosive atmospheres are continuously present or exist for extended periods.
- Zone 1: Explosive atmospheres are likely to occur during normal operations.
- Zone 2: Explosive atmospheres may develop but are unlikely. If they do, they will quickly dissipate.
Employees must adhere to hazardous area regulations by taking all necessary measures to prevent the ignition of hazardous atmospheres, as risk mitigation is a crucial part of every employer’s legal obligations
Hazardous area classification is based on Dangerous Substances and Explosive (DSEAR) regulations and indicates the level of safety precautions that must be taken.
Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR)
Introduced in December 2002, the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) are designed to manage the risk of fire and explosion in the workplace. DSEAR applies to any workplace where dangerous substances are present or could be present, posing a risk to employees or others. Consequently, it covers any site where petroleum spirit is stored and any premises where petrol is dispensed from a storage tank into a vehicle’s fuel tank.
The aims of DSEAR are as follows:
- Minimise the quantities of hazardous substances as much as possible. This is particularly challenging at a forecourt, where these substances are stored for sale.
- Prevent or reduce substance release through leak prevention, leak detection and spill control.
- Manage releases at their source.
- Prevent the creation of explosive atmospheres.
- Safely contain or remove any releases (e.g., using ventilation or a forecourt interceptor).
- Avoid ignition sources.
- Manage adverse conditions.
- Keep incompatible substances separated.
Forecourts must perform a DSEAR risk assessment to maintain safety standards across the site, including the storage of fuel. Once the assessment has been conducted and any identified issues have been rectified, site owners need to obtain a Petroleum Storage Certificate from the local Petroleum Enforcement Authority, in compliance with the Petroleum Consolidation Regulations 2014.
Furthermore, according to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO), the premises should be equipped with adequate fire-fighting equipment. Additionally, measures must be taken to ensure that all equipment is maintained and protected to remain operational and in good condition.
Electrical Testing
In accordance with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (EWR) and the Dangerous Substances & Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR), the site operator (licensee) is legally required to conduct an annual inspection and testing of the electrical installation to ensure its ongoing safety and functionality. Additionally, the site operator must hire a qualified individual (electrical contractor) to perform these inspections and tests.
Regular testing helps identify and rectify electrical faults that could potentially ignite flammable vapours present at petrol stations, thereby preventing fires and explosions. Routine inspections can also help to detect signs of wear and tear in electrical components, allowing for timely maintenance and replacement before they fail.
By ensuring that all electrical systems and equipment are functioning correctly, operators can help to maintain the safe operation of essential forecourt services, such as fuel pumps and lighting. As such, electrical testing plays a vital role in maintaining a safe and secure environment for both staff and customers at forecourts.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charge Point Installation
As always, operators should engage experienced professionals with expertise in installing EV charge points on forecourts to ensure correct positioning. Contractors must choose a location that is non-business critical and free from any combustible materials.
Placing EV chargers away from areas where flammable liquids and vapours are present reduces the risk of ignition and potential fires. Proper placement ensures that drivers and pedestrians can safely access the chargers without obstructing traffic flow or emergency exits. Furthermore, positioning chargers in well-lit and visible areas enhances safety by deterring vandalism and allowing users to see and operate the equipment safely.
TSG is here to help
TSG has over 30 years of experience in health and safety for the forecourt sector, with skilled professionals leading the team to safeguard all of its employees against the potential dangers associated with the industry.
Forecourts are inherently risky environments, with a potentially dangerous mix of explosive vapours, liquids and airborne contaminants. It is therefore of paramount importance that TSG’s field technicians regularly undergo lengthy and intensive hazardous zone training to maintain a safe working environment for themselves, site staff and visiting motorists and shoppers.
DSEAR Risk Assessments
TSG’s comprehensive DSEAR risk assessment service addresses all legislative requirements, offering support and advice for any areas needing improvement. As part of this service, TSG’s field technicians visit the site and guide the operator through the entire process, delivering a detailed and customised action plan.
Electrical Testing
To ensure effective electrical testing on a forecourt, TSG’s certified technician will accurately identify the hazardous zones, before conducting a thorough risk assessment to develop a safe system of work.
TSG will always follow safe isolation procedures to deactivate all electrical systems prior to inspecting and testing the installation to confirm its safety and integrity. Finally, TSG’s technician will compile a detailed report of the inspection and test results and complete all of the required documentation to ensure compliance, which is crucial for audits and insurance purposes.
EV Charge Point Installation
TSG offers an exceptional EV charge point installation service across the UK. TSG’s team of electrical engineers, already highly qualified to work in hazardous areas, operates swiftly and efficiently to minimise downtime for operators. Additionally, TSG provides servicing and maintenance for all EV charge equipment, either as part of a preventive maintenance programme or through impromptu call-outs.
