Fuels and Oils
⚠️ Why Proper Fuel & Oil Management Matters
Maintaining fuels and oils correctly ensures:
- Safe operation of mowers, tractors, and utility vehicles
- Longer engine life and reduced breakdowns
- Compliance with safety and environmental regulations
- Lower long-term maintenance costs
📝 Safe Storage of Fuels
Approved Containers Only
- Use certified, clearly labelled fuel cans (red/green for petrol, yellow/orange for diesel).
- Ensure containers are sealed, undamaged, and compliant with regulations.
Storage Location
- Store fuels in a well-ventilated, lockable area away from ignition sources.
- Keep away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Maintain distance from fertilisers, chemicals, and electrical equipment.
Spill Control
- Use a bunded fuel cabinet or spill tray.
- Keep absorbent pads or spill kits nearby.
📝 Safe Storage of Oils
Types of Oils to Store
- Engine oil
- Hydraulic oil
- Two-stroke oil
- Gear oil
Best Practices
- Store upright in sealed containers.
- Label clearly with product type and date.
- Keep in a dry area to prevent contamination.
- Use drip trays to catch leaks.
👥 Safe Handling Procedures
Refuelling Equipment
- Refuel machines outdoors or in ventilated areas.
- Always switch off equipment before refuelling.
- Avoid overfilling – leave space for expansion.
- Wipe away any spills immediately.
Using Oils
- Wear gloves to avoid skin contact.
- Check dipsticks and sight glasses before use.
- Dispose of oily rags in metal containers.
📝 Environmental & Safety Compliance
- Dispose of waste oil via licensed disposal services.
- Never pour fuels or oils onto soil or drains.
- Keep fire extinguishers (foam or dry powder) accessible.
- Ensure all staff receive proper handling training.
⚠️ Effects of incorrect procedure
- Damage to equipment, environment and possibly the sports surface.
Practical tips
- Try and use a synthetic oil rather than a petroleum oil in hydraulic systems as there is evidence to suggest the synthetic oil damage recovers more quickly if you were to suffer a leak.
⚠️ Do not fill fuel tanks on the pitch.
Maintenance
Clogged up carburettors are a common problem for petrol-powered machines, often caused by long term storage without draining or treating the petrol or incorrect filtration.
After three or four months, untreated petrol can go bad and make starting nearly impossible. A few simple precautions before winter storage can make springtime starting less fraught.
✅ Remember with petrol fuelled machines to drain the fuel tank, start the engine and run until completely empty to rid the system of old fuel.