Bonding and Grounding of Gasoline Storage Tanks

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the requirements for bonding and grounding gasoline storage tanks to prevent the build-up of static electricity and the potential for explosions. It applies to all personnel involved in the storage, handling, and dispensing of gasoline. This SWP is designed to minimize the risk of fire and explosion associated with static electricity during gasoline handling operations.

2. Definitions

Bonding The process of connecting two or more conductive objects together with a metal conductor to minimize potential differences. Grounding The process of connecting one or more conductive objects to the ground, creating a path for electrical charges to safely dissipate. Category 3 Flammable Liquid A flammable liquid with a flashpoint below 100°F (37.8°C). Gasoline A mixture of hydrocarbons, typically derived from petroleum, used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. Static Electricity The accumulation of electric charge on a surface or object due to an imbalance of electrons.

3. Responsibilities

3.2 Workers

Immediately report any leaks, spills, or failures of safety equipment, such as the ventilation system. [1]

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Static electricity build-up during transfer operations. [1]	Fire or explosion due to static discharge.	Ensure proper bonding and grounding procedures are followed. Use intrinsically safe equipment. Eliminate ignition sources.
Exposure to gasoline vapors.	Inhalation of vapors leading to health issues.	Use appropriate PPE, including gloves and eye protection. Ensure adequate ventilation.
Tank leaks or spills.	Environmental contamination and fire hazard.	Regularly inspect tanks for leaks or damage. Implement a preventative maintenance program.
Improper handling of gasoline.	Spills, fire, or explosion.	Ensure proper training and competency of personnel. Follow safe operating procedures.
Use of non-approved electrical equipment. [1]	Ignition of flammable vapors.	Use explosion-proof equipment and non-sparking tools. Control static electricity discharges which includes bonding of equipment to ground.
Inadequate ventilation.	Accumulation of flammable vapors.	Provide adequate ventilation. Use appropriate respiratory protection if necessary.
Improper storage of gasoline. [1]	Fire hazard and environmental contamination.	Ensure proper storage of gasoline in approved containers and designated areas. Keep the amount in storage to a minimum.
Presence of ignition sources. [1]	Fire or explosion.	Implement strict 'No Smoking' policy. Eliminate all sources of ignition.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required:

Chemical-Resistant Gloves: To protect hands from contact with gasoline.
Safety Glasses or Goggles: To protect eyes from splashes or vapors.
Anti-Static Clothing: To prevent static electricity build-up.
Safety Shoes with Non-Slip Soles: To avoid slips and falls.
Respiratory Protection (if required): To avoid exposure to vapours.

Inspect PPE before each use for damage or defects. Clean and maintain PPE according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace damaged or worn PPE immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

The following equipment and tools are required for bonding and grounding:

Bonding Wire/Strap: Used to create an electrical connection between two containers to prevent static electricity build-up.
Grounding Wire/Strap: Used to connect a container to a grounding point, allowing static electricity to safely dissipate into the ground.
Wire Brush or Scraper: Needed to remove paint, rust, or corrosion from bonding and grounding connection points to ensure good metal-to-metal contact.
Absorbent Materials: Used to clean up any spills that may occur during the transfer process.
Continuity Tester: To ensure proper grounding.

Inspect bonding and grounding wires/straps for continuity and physical damage (e.g., cuts, corrosion) before each use. Replace if damaged. Ensure ground clips are clean and free of corrosion to maintain good contact.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training Requirements: All personnel must be trained and competent in the safe handling of gasoline and the proper use of bonding and grounding equipment.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: Conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss the task, hazards, and control measures. Ensure all personnel understand the SWP.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Inspection: Ensure the work area is clear of obstructions and ignition sources. Provide adequate ventilation.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Inspection of Equipment: Visually inspect the storage tank, bonding and grounding wires, and connection points for any signs of damage or corrosion. Ensure all components are in good working order.
Bonding Containers: Connect one end of the bonding wire to the dispensing container (e.g., drum) and the other end to the receiving container (e.g., tank). Ensure metal-to-metal contact by removing any paint or corrosion at the connection points.
- Use a bonding strap or wire specifically designed for flammable liquids.
- Ensure the bonding connection is secure and will not come loose during the transfer process.
Grounding Containers: Connect the grounding wire to the grounding point (e.g., grounded metal object, buried metal plate). Ensure the grounding clip is securely attached to bare metal.
- Verify that the grounding point is a reliable ground.
- The grounding wire should be of sufficient length to allow for easy connection.
Positioning Fill Pipe: Insert the fill pipe into the tank, ensuring it terminates within 6 inches of the bottom of the tank to minimize static electricity generation. [3]
Transferring Gasoline: Begin transferring the gasoline slowly to avoid splashing and turbulence, which can increase static electricity build-up.
- Monitor the transfer process to ensure there are no leaks or spills.
- If using a pump, ensure it is properly grounded and designed for use with flammable liquids.
Maintaining Contact: Maintain continuous contact between the filling nozzle and the container being filled to prevent static discharge.
Static Dissipation: Once the transfer is complete, wait for at least 30 seconds to allow any static charge to dissipate before disconnecting the bonding and grounding wires.
Disconnecting Wires: Disconnect the grounding wire first, followed by the bonding wire. Store the wires in a safe and accessible location.
Spill Clean-Up: Inspect the area for any spills or leaks. Clean up any spills immediately using absorbent materials. Dispose of the materials properly.
Proper Storage: Ensure all containers are properly sealed and stored in a designated area that is cool, dry, and well-ventilated. [1]

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Always bond and ground containers when transferring gasoline from one container to another. - Use approved bonding and grounding wires/straps. [2]
Ensure that bonding and grounding connections are bare metal to bare metal. Remove all dirt, paint, rust, or corrosion from points of contact. - Clean contact points before making connections. [2]
Use only approved containers and equipment for handling gasoline. - Check for approval markings and ensure equipment is in good working order.
Eliminate all ignition sources, such as smoking, open flames, and sparks, in the vicinity of gasoline storage and handling areas. - Enforce a strict 'No Smoking' policy. [1]
Maintain good ventilation to prevent the accumulation of flammable vapors. - Use local exhaust ventilation where necessary.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of any emergency, immediately stop the operation, shut down equipment, and evacuate the area.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Large gasoline spill occurs.: Evacuate the area immediately. Eliminate all ignition sources. Contact emergency services and provide them with details of the incident.
Fire breaks out near the storage tank.: Activate the fire alarm and evacuate the area. Use appropriate fire extinguishers (Carbon dioxide, dry chemical powder, appropriate foam, water spray or fog) to extinguish the fire. Contact emergency services.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency contact information should be prominently displayed near the storage area.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses, must be reported to the supervisor immediately. A written report must be submitted within 24 hours.

A thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident and to implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]