What does 49 CFR 392.50 (Ignition of fuel; prevention) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 392.50 requires drivers and motor carrier employees to follow specific rules when fueling commercial motor vehicles to prevent fires and explosions. The rules include not fueling with the engine running, not smoking or having open flames nearby, and ensuring the fuel hose nozzle is in contact with the fuel tank intake pipe.

The rule says

"No driver or any employee of a motor carrier shall: (a) Fuel a commercial motor vehicle with the engine running, except when it is necessary to run the engine to fuel the commercial motor vehicle; (b) Smoke or expose any open flame in the vicinity of a commercial motor vehicle being fueled; (c) Fuel a commercial motor vehicle unless the nozzle of the fuel hose is continuously in contact with the intake pipe of the fuel tank; (d) Permit, insofar as practicable, any other person to engage in such activities as would be likely to result in fire or explosion." (49 CFR 392.50)

In plain English

This rule is about preventing fires and explosions when fueling commercial vehicles. It means drivers and employees should not fuel a vehicle with the engine running unless necessary, should not smoke or have open flames nearby, and should ensure the fuel hose is properly connected to the fuel tank. These rules are crucial for safety and are often checked during inspections.

What to do

• Ensure drivers and employees understand and follow the fueling rules.
• Train employees on the proper procedures for fueling commercial vehicles.
• Regularly inspect fueling areas to prevent open flames or sparks.
• Develop a safety plan to prevent and respond to fueling-related fires and explosions.