Carrying spare petrol in your car?
When petrol fumes vent from containers inside vehicles, they can form an explosive fuel and air mixture. If there is an ignition source, this mixture can explode and injure or even kill the driver and any passengers.
Ignition sources include electrical equipment in the vehicle (e.g. using a remote locking mechanism) or lighting a cigarette in or near the vehicle.
Ventilation is the key to reducing the risk of fire or explosion inside a vehicle when carrying containers of petrol.
Safety tips for transporting containers of petrol
Petrol may be transported in tins and jerry cans that comply with Australian Standard AS 2906.
If possible, transport tins or jerry cans of petrol (properly restrained) in a trailer or ute tray. If this is not possible, the following precautions will help you to transport the petrol safely:
- Avoid splashing when filling containers.
- Ensure containers are tightly sealed and cannot leak during transport.
- Securely restrain cylinders in an upright position on the vehicle floor.
- Wind down the vehicle windows for cross-flow ventilation.
- Avoid transporting fertilisers and oxidising agents with containers of petrol.
- Do not smoke in or near the vehicle.