Why Fuel Storage Safety Matters
The load shedding crisis pushed millions of South Africans to buy generators, and with generators came the need to store fuel at home. Petrol and diesel stored incorrectly are serious fire hazards — petrol vapour is heavier than air, accumulates in enclosed spaces, and ignites with a spark from a light switch or pilot light. Every year South African homes experience fires and explosions directly attributable to improperly stored fuel. Understanding and following the correct protocols prevents this.
Legal Storage Limits
South African law (through the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its associated regulations, as well as local municipal by-laws) limits how much flammable liquid a private person can store at home:
- Petrol (Class A flammable liquid) — the general limit for residential properties is 200 litres. In practice, most municipalities limit residents to 50 litres in residential areas without a licence.
- Diesel (Class B flammable liquid) — less volatile than petrol; higher limits typically apply, but check your municipality's by-laws.
For most home generator users, 20–50 litres of petrol stored correctly is sufficient for several days of backup power and is well within regulatory limits.
Approved Containers
Store fuel only in containers that are specifically designed and approved for flammable liquid storage:
- SABS-approved metal jerricans or purpose-made HDPE (high-density polyethylene) approved plastic fuel containers
- Containers must be clearly labelled with the fuel type and "FLAMMABLE" / "BRANDBAAR"
- Never use repurposed containers (water bottles, cooking oil containers, glass bottles)
- Containers must have a secure, sealing cap with a vent that releases pressure without allowing liquid spillage
Approved 20-litre fuel containers are available from hardware stores and fuel retailers at R200–R450.
Where to Store It
- Always outdoors or in a well-ventilated outbuilding — never inside the house, inside an attached garage that connects directly to the house, or in a basement. Petrol vapour accumulates in low, enclosed spaces and ignites from any ignition source.
- Away from ignition sources — minimum 3 metres from any flame, electric motor, switch, or hot surface. This includes water heaters, boilers, and the generator itself when running.
- In shade — heat causes fuel to expand and increases vapour pressure. A container left in direct summer sun will vent through the cap and create a vapour pool around it.
- Secured against access by children — a locked storage shed or cabinet is appropriate.
- Clearly marked storage area — place a "FLAMMABLE LIQUID — NO SMOKING / NO NAKED FLAMES" sign near the storage location.
How Long Fuel Stays Usable
Petrol degrades over time — the lighter volatile fractions evaporate through the container cap, and oxidation products form that can damage carburettors and fuel injectors. Petrol stored in a sealed, cool container stays usable for approximately:
- 3–6 months without a fuel stabiliser additive
- 12–24 months with a fuel stabiliser (available at hardware and auto stores, R80–R150 per bottle)
Diesel is more stable — properly stored diesel remains usable for 6–12 months. Diesel that has been contaminated with water or microbial growth (indicated by a dark colour and a musty smell) should be disposed of at a licensed waste facility and not used in a generator.
Fire Extinguisher
Keep a CO2 or dry powder fire extinguisher (minimum 2kg) near the generator and fuel storage area. Water must not be used on a petrol fire — it spreads the burning liquid. Know how to use the extinguisher before you need it.