Compressed natural gas (CNG) is an alternative fuel that powers more than 12 million vehicles on the road today. There are many benefits of CNG that make it an attractive fueling option for companies and municipalities, which is why many are making the switch from traditional petroleum-based fuels to CNG.
According to the US Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center, CNG is much safer than traditional fuels because it is lighter than air and less volatile (harder to ignite). This means that the chance of fire or combustion is much lower.
Although CNG is much safer, incidents and accidents can occur, so it’s still important to follow safety procedures. The following are six CNG fueling station safety tips designed to minimize risk and keep you out of harm’s way.
- Turn off the vehicle.
Turning off your car should be your first action when you get to the CNG fueling station. Your engine poses a risk of fire if any sparks are produced by its compartments. Furthermore, the interaction between you and the moving car might produce static, which raises the possibility of getting hurt. You can reduce danger and improve your safety by turning off the engine. - Stop smoking.
Any smoking equipment, be it a pipe, cigar, cigarette, or something else entirely, is regarded as an open flame and should not be carried near a CNG fuelling station. CNG is a dangerous fuel despite its high ignition temperature, and an exposed flame raises your chance of getting hurt. Never light up when filling up, and make sure to put the thing out somewhere secure before you get to the gas station. - Locate emergency shutoffs.
Finding the emergency shutoffs at your area is crucial before you start fueling. In the case of an emergency, these are made to swiftly turn the dispenser off. These shutoffs are usually prominently marked at gas stations, but if you can’t find it, ask someone. - Locate fire extinguishers.
You should find the nearest fire extinguisher while searching for the emergency shutoff. These ought to be at or close to each dispenser. After you’ve located it, become familiar with the extinguisher’s operation. In this manner, you can put out a fire fast and precisely if one breaks out. - Follow instructions.
The operation of CNG dispensers differs slightly from that of conventional fuel pumps, despite their similarities. Make sure you carefully read and abide by the printed instructions to make sure you are fuelling appropriately and protecting yourself. Ask for help if you have trouble seeing directions. - Pay attention.
The operation of CNG dispensers differs slightly from that of conventional fuel pumps, despite their similarities. Make sure you carefully read and abide by the printed instructions to make sure you are fuelling appropriately and protecting yourself. Ask for help if you have trouble seeing directions.
Even though CNG fuel is quite safe, following these guidelines will help you prioritize safety at all times.