You would think that this would not need to be said.
But the Trinidad & Tobago National Petroleum Marketing Company Limited yesterday issued a release reminding members of the public that “smoking is strictly prohibited at Service Stations as it poses a significant risk as a lit cigarette or loose cigarette ash can ignite gasoline vapours in the air.”
NP referenced a video circulating on social media showing a member of the public smoking a cigarette in close proximity to a fuel dispenser even though a “No Smoking” sign was clearly visible, as the reason for having to issue the release.
They also warned about using cell phones at service stations.
“Out of an abundance of caution, despite ongoing debates regarding evidence linking fires / risks to mobile phone ignitions, NP strongly discourages the use of cell phones in the area of the vehicle filler point when filling a vehicle and / or in the immediate vicinity of a fuel dispenser. Mobile phones are not designed or certified for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, which exist temporarily around the pump and nozzle during refuelling,” the release stated.
“Moreover, although NP works alongside Service Station Dealers to mitigate these types of instances as much as possible, we are also seeking the cooperation of the public in complying with all safety messages posted throughout the Service Station network and in exercising their social responsibility to prevent destruction and harm to themselves or property,” it stated.
NP said the safety of its customers is a priority that it takes “very seriously” as they appealed to members of the public to exercise caution when refuelling and to keep cigarettes, lighters, naked lights and all other potential ignition sources off the Service Station forecourt and away from the immediate vicinity of fuel dispensers.
