What is the recommended procedure for refueling activities near a vehicle?

• A. Refuel without shutting down equipment.
• B. Follow approved fueling procedures, power down equipment, and maintain a safe distance from ignition sources.
• C. Refuel only at designated stations at speed.
• D. Use any available method to refuel quickly.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that refueling near a vehicle must be done in a controlled, ignition-source–free way. Following approved fueling procedures ensures you cover all required safety steps, power down equipment to remove potential sparks or heat, and keep a safe distance from any ignition sources such as electrical components, hoses, or exhaust areas. This combination minimizes the risk of fire or explosion from fuel vapors.

Powering down equipment eliminates electrical and mechanical sources of ignition. Approved fueling procedures typically include grounding and bonding the vehicle and nozzle to prevent static electricity, having a fire extinguisher nearby, and controlling spills or overflows. Maintaining a safe distance from ignition sources means staying clear of hot surfaces, exhaust outlets, open flames, and any equipment that could spark while fueling.

Other approaches ignore these safeguards and increase the chance of a fire or injury, such as fueling with engines running, rushing the process, or using methods that skip proper grounding and spill controls.