Did you know that…
- According to the American authorities a lightweight platic can, could release approximately 4 kg hydrocarbons per year through spills and permeation.
- Compared to a car, such can emits twice as much hydrocarbons per year.
- A rough estimation means that there are between 2-3 million petrol cans in use in Sweden. A rough estimation means that there are about 3 million petrol cans in use in Sweden. Using a suitable container like Never Stop would mean avoiding emissions of at least 870 000 kg of hydrocarbons per year (based on SP’s test in October 2012 ) . Putting into perspective this would be what about 43,000 cars emits in hydrocarbon every year.
- According to the U.S. authorities approximately 10 percent of the fuel in an unfit petrol can is spilled during use and handling. It results in about 40 million people in the U.S. alone using groundwater that somehow has been contaminated by gasoline.
- Only from spill, it is estimated that about 840 000 kg hydrocarbon is released per year, in Sweden alone.
Advice on handling petrol
- Use only fuel cans approved by an independent testing institute accredited by the EU.
- Respect the capacity established by the manufacturer! Do not overfill! Fuel needs room to expand inside the container.
- Use the correct spout, preferably an overfilling proof on such as AutoStop to prevent spills and splashes while refuelling lawn mowers, boats, scooters and other equipment.
- Refuel in area of good ventilation.
- Always store the can upright.
- Replace the plastic container after 5 years and revise metal containers regularly.
Rules regarding plastic fuel cans
- Do not overfill the container! Fuel expands and clam up under normal weather conditions and therefore it required more space inside the container.
- Be careful not to spill or overfill when refuelling, as fuel may contaminate groundwater.
- Make sure the lid is securely tightened.
- Never store the can in direct sunlight – ultraviolet radiation breaks down plastic molecules increasing emission of fire hazardous fumes.
- Keep the can in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area at ground level.
- Be aware of light weight cans that have an approval for below for less than 2,5 bar pressure (250KPa), since walls are too thin and will let through fuel and hazardous gases.
- A fuel can that is stored inside a car should withstand 2.5 bar (250 kPa ) overpressure . If the car is parked in the sun and the fuel expands, if the container is too light, the can is in risk of breaking.
- Replace the plastic container after 5 years of use because plastic gets old! This is recommended by the United Nations.
- Metal cans lasts much longer than plastic.
Rules and tips for Jerrycans of metal sheet
- The container must not be overfilled!
- Make sure the lid is closed tightly.
- Do not store the can with refill spout screwed on.
- Be careful not to spill and overfill when refuelling, as this is harmful to the environment and health.
- The container is well suited as a spare can in the car, since it has minimal emissions.
- Recommended usage is about 10 years.
Fill with care!
- Use a spout with oil and petrol resistant rubber gasket!
- Preferably use an overfilling proof spout such as AutoStop that prevents spills, overflow and splash when refuelling.
- When refuelling from 20L plastic or metal cans – use a fuel pump!
- Refuel on a hard surface such as concrete or asphalt rather than soil or water.
- Refuel outdoors or in a very well ventilated area to disperse the vapours.
- Refuel snowmobiles and other gasoline-powered engines on land and not on frozen lakes and ponds.
Clean up spills promptly and accurately
- If spillage occurs use kitty litter, sawdust or a towel to soak up the petrol. Throw everything at a recycling centre.
- Avoid spilling on the ground, especially near wells.
Dispose properly
- Never pour petrol or any other fuel down the drain, into water, in nature or in the trash!
- Old petrol must be disposed at a recycling centre.
- Always store fuel in a fuel can which is approved by an independent testing institute accredited by the EU.
- Try to avoid storing a fuel can with petrol in the trunk of the car during longer periods of time.
- Replace plastic cans after 5 years.
- Replace sheet metal cans after 10 years.
