Fuel and Oil Handling

The Fuel and Oil Handling SOP (SOP-CHM-003) outlines crucial procedures for managing hazards associated with fuel and oil handling. It is designed for operators, maintenance personnel, and safety officers to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with relevant safety regulations. This document helps mitigate risks such as fire, environmental contamination, and health hazards, thereby promoting a safer workplace.

• Fire or explosion from petrol vapour ignition (autoignition or static spark) → fatality, burns
• Diesel mist inhalation during refuelling → respiratory irritation; long-term carcinogenic exposure
• Skin contact with mineral oil dermatitis or chemical burn from used hot oils
• Slips and falls on fuel-spilled surfaces
• Manual handling injuries from drum and IBC manoeuvring → musculoskeletal injury
• Environmental contamination of soil and waterways → EPA prosecution and clean-up costs
• Hot surface burns from refuelling a hot engine
• Asphyxiation or vapour intoxication in confined refuelling areas (pits, basements)

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and applicable state/territory WHS legislation
• Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Cth) — Chapter 7 Hazardous Chemicals
• Australian Dangerous Goods Code (ADG Code 7.x) — for fuel transport
• AS 1940 — The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids
• AS 1692 — Steel tanks for flammable and combustible liquids (where applicable)
• AS/NZS 4452 — The storage and handling of toxic substances (storage of liquid dangerous goods)
• State petroleum / dangerous goods regulations (e.g., NSW Dangerous Goods (Road and Rail Transport) Regulation 2022; Vic Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations 2022)
• State EPA waste tracking regulations for used oil and contaminated absorbent
• Safe Work Australia — Code of Practice: Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace
• Refuelling/Decant Checklist and Fuel Storage Inspection Log (associated documents)