Petrol Pump Safety Rules to Follow in India

For those who have a car or bike, going to the petrol pump is a daily task. However, going to a petrol pump does not mean refuelling your vehicle’s tank. You must also follow several safety rules while you are there.

If you ignore these safety rules, it can lead to disastrous consequences such as fire. Safety rules include no smoking, no talking on a cell phone and turning your engine off. In this blog, let us discuss the petrol pump safety rules in India in detail.

​What are the 7 Important Safety Rules at a Petrol Pump?

Are you wondering, ‘What are the petrol pump safety rules in India?’ You are not alone; many first-time drivers ask this question. Here are 7 essential safety rules that you must follow:

​No Smoking

One of the strictest petrol pump safety rules in India is no smoking. Fuel vapours are highly flammable, and they can ignite with the slightest spark. Therefore, you must not use lighters, matchsticks, or smoke cigarettes near the fuel nozzles.

By following these safety measures, you can ensure that you keep yourself and others at the pump safe and secure.

​Turn Off Your Engine

When a car or bike engine runs, it generates massive heat and static electricity. These can potentially serve as ignition for the fuel vapours escaping from the petrol pump. Therefore, when you are refuelling your car, you must turn your car’s engine off.

When you follow the safety rules, you not only act as a responsible citizen but also set an example for people who might not follow the rules.

Also Read: Driving Licence (DL) Forms: A Comprehensive Guide for Applicants

​Avoid Using Mobile Phones

Mobile phones can sometimes overheat and cause a fire hazard at petrol pumps. That is why petrol pump safety rules in India mandate that you do not use your mobile phone while you are at the site.

Moreover, mobile phones can cause static electricity as well while rubbing against pockets. A small spark may cause a blast from the fuel vapours.

​Don’t Overfill the Fuel Tank

​Overfilling your fuel tank poses a serious risk. When the fuel nozzle clicks off automatically, instruct the attendant to stop pumping immediately. You might think overfilling will save you an extra trip to the petrol pump.

However, it can cause dangerous fuel spills onto the ground or onto your vehicle’s hot exhaust pipe. This creates an instant fire risk. It also leaves no room for the fuel to expand inside the tank on a hot day.

​Stay Alert

One of the most important petrol pump safety rules is to never leave your car unattended. Always stay alert as petrol pumps experience heavy traffic and rush. You need to be ready to act instantly in case of a spill, a malfunctioning nozzle, or an unexpected fire hazard.

Staying vigilant and keeping an eye on your surroundings protects you, the station attendants, and other customers. Paying attention may seem insignificant, but it can save lives in case of an accident.

Child Supervision

​If you are travelling with children, keep them securely seated inside your car with their seatbelts on. Fuel stations experience unpredictable traffic, and kids stepping out can be incredibly dangerous.

Plus, educating them about petrol pump safety rules early on keeps them aware of why they must stay seated. It also prevents them from accidentally tampering with windows or car controls during refuelling.

Position Your Car

Lastly, make sure to park close enough to the dispenser so the attendant doesn't have to stretch the hose. However, while doing this, ensure that you leave enough room to exit quickly if an emergency arises.

Always apply your parking brake to prevent accidental rolling. According to the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO)’s new guidelines for petrol pumps, petrol pumps must maintain clear and hazard-free driving lanes.

The petrol pump safety rules are in place to make sure you don't do anything that can lead to a deadly accident. However, accidents can still occur. Therefore, having motor insurance is necessary because it acts as your ultimate financial safety net against unforeseen road and stationary accidents.

Also Read: Hydroplaning: Causes, Prevention & Safety Tips

The Bottom Line

​Adhering to petrol pump safety rules is your first line of defence against avoidable accidents. By staying alert, turning off your engine, and following station guidelines, you protect yourself and everyone around you.

Pair these safe habits with a robust motor insurance plan from Bajaj General Insurance to stay financially secure against unpredictable road mishaps. Get a quote from us today and step into the comfort of financial protection!

​FAQs About Petrol Pump Safety Rules

​Can you fill a 20L jerry can at a petrol pump?

Yes, you can fill your 20-litre jerry can at a petrol pump provided that the can is made from PESO-certified plastic. Without it, the petrol pump officials will not dispense fuel as it may cause a fire risk.

​What are the rules for a fuel pump?

The petrol pump safety rules in India mandate no smoking, no use of mobile phones, turning off your vehicle’s engine and not overfilling the vehicle’s fuel tank.

How can I save petrol?

As petrol prices continue to rise, you can save petrol when you maintain tyre pressure, avoid aggressive acceleration, and adhere to speed limits. Plus, at signals, you can turn off your vehicle’s engine to save petrol.

​What to do if I notice a fire in a petrol pump?

If you catch a fire at a petrol pump, do not attempt to remove your vehicle as it may make the fire worse. Instead, you must call the fire brigade immediately and try to evacuate as many people as possible. Never try to go near the fuel nozzles. Also, alert the pump officials so they may be able to trigger emergency shut-off valves.

​Why do we have to turn off our engines at petrol pumps?

When a vehicle’s engine runs, it produces sparks and heat from its engine or exhaust. These may cause a fire hazard at the petrol pump. Therefore, it is advised that you turn off your engine while refuelling.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to change. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.

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