Safety Information and Updates

We’ve all seen it: the routine customer at the gasoline station pump scrolling through TikTok or cleaning their windshield while the gas nozzle clicks away. On solid ground, refueling can seem like is a mindless chore—as routine as grabbing a coffee. But when you move that operation to the water, the rules of the game don't just change; they evolve into a high-stakes safety operation where a single "mindless" moment can lead to an ecological and financial nightmare.

In 2026, with environmental regulations tighter than ever, understanding the "how" and "why" of marine fueling is the difference between a successful day at the dock and a career-ending spill.

If you’re operating a vessel with a total bulk capacity of 250 barrels or more, you’ve officially entered the world of Coast Guard-regulated deliveries. In plain English? That’s 10,500 gallons.

At this volume, the USCG doesn't just suggest safety—they mandate it. Here is the 2026 breakdown of what’s required for both the vessel and the "Mobile Facility" (the delivery truck):

The PIC (Person in Charge): This isn't just a title; it’s a certification. Both the boat and the truck must have a designated PIC who has completed annual training and possesses documented experience.

The 4-Hour "Heads Up": You can't just show up and pump. An Advanced Notice of Transfer (ANT) must be filed with the Captain of the Port at least 4 hours before the first drop moves. This report tracks the time, location, and even the spill history of the parties involved.

The Pre-Game Huddle: Before the pumps start, both PICs must complete a Declaration of Inspection (DOI). This is a rigorous, face-to-face checklist ensuring every hose, valve, and communication line is ready for action.

Even if your vessel holds less than 10,500 gallons, you aren't off the hook. Small-scale commercial fueling still requires permits and extreme vigilance. Some rules are non-negotiable across the board:

Dry Connections Only: Under no circumstances can a hose connection sit over open water. If you're linking multiple hoses, those connections must be on the pier or the deck. If it drips, it must hit a surface you can clean, not the ecosystem.

The Multi-Tasking Myth: It’s tempting to have a crew member perform "hot work" (welding or grinding) while the tanks are filling. Don't. In the tight quarters of a working dock, a single spark meeting a fuel vent is a catastrophic recipe.

Why the Extra Effort?

On land, a spill is a mess. In the water, a spill is a disaster. Between wind, tide, and current, a few gallons can become a mile-wide slick in minutes.

As we move through 2026, the technology for fuel delivery is getting better, but it still relies on the most important safety component: You. Whether you’re the driver or the crew, staying vigilant means ignoring the phone, stopping the repairs, and focusing on the transfer.

The goal is simple: Keep the fuel in the tank and the water in the harbor.

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) announced that this year’s Road Check would take place from May 12-14. Road Check an annual blitz of inspections conducted to make sure that commercial vehicles are properly following mandated safety standards and legal requirements. Inspectors along weigh stations and pop-up sites conduct a 37 point inspection to assess both driver compliance with regulations, and mechanical fitness of the vehicle being inspected.

Every year there is generally a specific area of the rules being focused on, and this year that is Electronic Logs (ELDs), specifically, falsification of ELDs, and Cargo Securement.

So what does that mean?

ELDs:

Inspections will focus on looking at ELD data to flag hours of service issues, falsification of duty status, and use of non-compliant ELD devices. Electronic logs were rolled out to make HOS and driver logs more universal and verifiable, so violations would be clearer and it could be ensured that drivers were operating safely within hours and service constraints. During inspections, officers will look for inconsistencies in logs versus paperwork, non logged in drivers, and driving time logged as out of service time, etc. Last year, according to CVSA almost 60,000 violations were issued for falsification of duty status, so this is a major issue across the trucking industry.

Cargo Securement:

The second major focus of the Road Check blitz this year will be proper cargo securement. Improperly secured cargo is obviously a major safety risk to both the driver, and other drivers on the road. Inspections will ensure that any cargo is secured such that it prevents any spilling, blowing, or shifting in transit according to Federal Motor Carrier Safety standards – this means checking tie downs and anchor points, but also accessory items are secured – like spare tires and other equipment.

To get ahead of Road Check, and just to make sure your drivers are properly informed, the CVSA publishes the following “cheat sheets” that are very much worth reviewing:

Driver Inspection Cheat Sheet

Vehicle Inspection Cheat Sheet

As winter loosens its grip and temperatures begin to rise, fuel delivery operations enter a transitional period that brings its own set of safety concerns. While spring often signals relief from snow and ice, it also introduces less obvious hazards that can be just as dangerous if not properly managed. Thawing ground, saturated soil, and poor drainage can quickly create unstable and unpredictable work environments.

One of the most common springtime challenges is soft or shifting ground. As frozen soil thaws, surfaces that were once solid can become unstable, increasing the risk of slips, stuck equipment, and vehicle instability. Mud and pooled water are especially problematic at customer sites, loading areas, and around tank pads. These conditions not only affect footing and vehicle access but can also interfere with safe and effective fuel delivery.

Standing water presents additional concerns beyond traction and access. Poor drainage can allow water to accumulate near fill points or tank openings, increasing the risk of water entering underground storage tanks. In some cases, water levels may make it unsafe or impractical to complete a delivery at all. Identifying these conditions early allows crews to make informed decisions before equipment or product is compromised.

Proactive site evaluation is one of the most effective tools for managing spring hazards. Before beginning work, operators should take a few moments to assess ground stability, drainage patterns, and overall site condition. When necessary, temporary measures such as gravel, mud mats, or alternate access routes can help create safer working surfaces. In areas where water accumulation is unavoidable, additional controls—such as pumping or rerouting water—may be required, or deliveries may need to be delayed until conditions improve.

Spring also presents an opportunity to reset and refocus safety messaging. Seasonal safety discussions should highlight the risks associated with changing ground conditions and reinforce expectations for recognizing and responding to hazards. Topics should include safe movement on slippery or uneven surfaces, proper use of equipment in soft ground conditions, and the importance of stopping work when conditions deteriorate.

Situational awareness remains critical during this time of year. Ground conditions can change rapidly with warming temperatures, rainfall, or snowmelt, even within a single shift. Employees should be encouraged to speak up when conditions appear unsafe and to communicate concerns promptly so corrective actions can be taken. Reinforcing PPE requirements—such as slip-resistant footwear and weather-appropriate gear—adds another layer of protection.

The transition from winter to spring is not simply a change in weather; it is a shift in risk. Many of the habits developed during winter operations—planning ahead, monitoring conditions closely, and maintaining equipment—remain just as relevant as new hazards emerge. Applying those same principles to spring conditions helps ensure operations remain safe and efficient.

By anticipating seasonal changes and addressing hazards before they lead to incidents, fuel delivery operations can navigate the spring transition with confidence. Consistent site assessments, clear communication, and an ongoing commitment to safety help protect employees, equipment, and customers as the season evolves.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is a critical component of modern diesel engines equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems. DEF helps reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by converting them into harmless nitrogen and water vapor. While DEF is non-toxic and non-flammable, improper handling, storage, or use can lead to equipment damage, safety issues, and costly downtime. Following best practices ensures both worker safety and reliable engine performance.

Safe Handling of DEF

DEF is a clear, colorless solution made of 32.5% urea and 67.5% deionized water. Although it is considered non-hazardous, basic safety precautions should always be followed. Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes, as DEF can cause mild irritation and leaves crystalline residue when it dries. Wear gloves and eye protection when transferring or dispensing DEF, especially in bulk operations.

Spills should be cleaned promptly. DEF is slippery and can create slip hazards on walking surfaces. Use absorbent materials and rinse the area with water after cleanup. Never mix DEF with diesel fuel, gasoline, or any other chemicals—contamination can damage SCR systems and cause engine derates or shutdowns.

Proper Storage Practices

DEF must be stored correctly to maintain its quality and effectiveness. Use only approved containers made from materials such as stainless steel or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Never store DEF in containers previously used for fuel, oil, or chemicals.

Temperature control is critical. DEF freezes at approximately 12°F (-11°C). While freezing does not damage DEF, repeated freeze-thaw cycles should be minimized. Store DEF between 23°F and 77°F whenever possible. Prolonged exposure to temperatures above 86°F can degrade DEF quality and shorten shelf life.

Keep storage containers sealed to prevent contamination from dust, dirt, or moisture. DEF should be protected from direct sunlight and stored in a clean, dry area. Clearly label all containers to avoid accidental misuse.

Safe and Correct Use

Only use DEF that meets ISO 22241 specifications. Using poor-quality or contaminated DEF can result in SCR system failure, warning lights, reduced engine power, or costly repairs. Always verify that dispensing equipment is clean and dedicated exclusively to DEF.

Never add DEF to the diesel fuel tank—DEF must only be added to the designated DEF tank. Likewise, diesel fuel must never be introduced into the DEF system. Even small amounts of contamination can cause severe damage.

Operators should follow manufacturer guidelines for refilling intervals and quantities. If a DEF warning light or fault occurs, address it promptly to avoid engine derate conditions.

While Diesel Exhaust Fluid is safe to handle when proper procedures are followed, attention to handling, storage, and use is essential. Clean equipment, temperature control, contamination prevention, and proper training all play a role in protecting employees and ensuring reliable vehicle operation. By following these best practices, organizations can maintain compliance, reduce downtime, and support a safer work environment.

In the world of logistics, supply chain details, and cutting-edge technology, it's easy for conversations to feel a bit dry. Concepts like route planning or inventory tracking might seem like mundane necessities, but they're the backbone that powers seamless experiences for everyone involved. At the heart of it all is a simple goal: delivering top-notch service to customers and a smoother workday for teams. By investing in smart technology, supply strategies, and transport efficiencies, operations, dispatch, and safety groups can streamline processes that benefit drivers and clients alike. Here's a fresh look at key recommendations and their real-world impact on daily operations.

Harnessing Technology for Smarter Operations

Start with the basics: Outfit fuel transport vehicles with GPS tracking to give dispatchers a live view of driver locations. This empowers teams to tweak schedules, assign follow-up loads, and manage timelines remotely, all without pulling drivers away from the road for check-ins.

A tailored dispatch system is a game-changer, offering full visibility into customer sites. Orders flow into the platform and are pushed digitally to drivers' in-cab tablets, where they can view and mark off deliveries. This setup simplifies scheduling for monitored tanks and automated systems, with tank data uploaded twice daily to a shared platform accessible by both dispatch and customers.

For fueling operations, integrate barcode scanning on trucks to capture precise gallon breakdowns during multi-site or equipment drops. This not only speeds up the process for drivers but also generates detailed records that eliminate paperwork hassles. Customers gain quick access to these receipts and bills of lading (BOLs) via an online portal, making backend reconciliation effortless—no lost documents or delays.

On the lubricants front, apply barcoding to track products from warehouse entry to customer delivery. Scanning at every stage provides a complete traceability chain, which is crucial for quickly addressing any rare quality issues by pinpointing affected items. Drivers can scan items upon delivery for instant digital confirmations, which can be emailed to stakeholders. This cuts down on administrative work for everyone, from PO matching to inventory management.

Lubricant routes should also leverage electronic dispatching to tablets, enabling real-time updates and progress tracking. Routes can be fine-tuned based on location, past orders, business hours, and preferred delivery slots, leading to more efficient trips that minimize disruptions and maximize productivity.

For rack-based customers, link financial and contract systems with terminal access badges (TABs) and exchange platforms. This setup lets wholesalers manage overlapping contracts across various products and locations seamlessly, with real-time gallon tracking via automated emails or on-demand reports. It keeps pricing and allocations clear, allowing customers to adapt to market shifts and optimize their spending without friction.

Strategic Terminal Placement for Maximum Efficiency

Positioning terminals thoughtfully can boost performance for both self-serve rack customers and your own delivery fleet. Focus on geography and local demand to offer diverse product options through multiple access points.

Having several pull points acts as a safeguard against supply disruptions like outages or shipping delays. It also enables flexible pricing strategies within a single location—for instance, directing drivers to select from spot deals, fixed allocations, or rack options to mitigate market volatility, all without rerouting to another site and wasting time.

Ideally, terminals should align with high-demand customer areas. This overlap enhances driver efficiency for deliveries and provides convenient pickup spots for rack users. In dense urban zones like Boston, where hazardous material regulations limit routes and timings, nearby options help optimize paths and make the most of available hours.

Enhancing Transportation for Drivers and Customers

Prioritizing driver ease is key, and that starts with robust dispatching tools. Use a customized database to map out daily routes that account for customer needs, load requirements, and shift constraints—it's a complex puzzle, but the payoff is huge. Routes are delivered to drivers' tablets, ensuring clear instructions and live updates for dispatch. This facilitates quick adjustments amid the industry's inevitable curveballs.

Combine this with GPS for accurate ETAs, allowing customer service to update clients without interrupting drivers. It's a dual win: safer roads by reducing phone use and better service through reliable communication.

Ultimately, embracing these practices is about continuous improvement—refining tools and processes to elevate the overall experience for customers, drivers, and your team. By focusing on efficiency and innovation, operators can turn everyday operations into a competitive edge.

The holiday season is here, bringing chilly nights, festive gatherings, and the beauty of winter landscapes. As temperatures drop, keeping your home or business warm and comfortable becomes more important than ever. At the same time, snowy roads and icy conditions can make fuel delivery more challenging. That’s why we’re sharing a few important winter safety tips to help ensure smooth, reliable, and safe deliveries throughout the season.

1. Keep Driveways, Parking Lots, and Access Points Clear. To help our drivers reach your fuel tank safely, please clear driveways, parking lots, and pathways of snow and ice. Plowed, salted driveways and parking lots make it easier for large delivery vehicles to access your property. Also, please be sure to keep paths and walkways to your tank clear so that our team can safely reach the fill location.

2. Keep Fill Areas Free of Snow and Ice. Snow and ice buildup can sometimes hide fuel fill locations, especially on top of underground storage tank fills. Please regularly clear the snow and ice around these fill covers so our drivers can access and remove the covers to these fill locations. Also, please make sure spill containment buckets are free and empty of ice and water. A spill bucket full of frozen water will prevent our drivers from being able to attach our delivery equipment to the fill pipe. These simple steps will help prevent delays and keep your deliveries on schedule.

3. Schedule Deliveries Early. Winter storms and holiday demand can impact delivery schedules. To avoid running low on fuel, it’s best to order ahead of time. Setting up automatic delivery is another great way to ensure you never have to worry about running out during the coldest months.

4. Be Prepared for Severe Weather. If severe weather is in the forecast, keep an eye on your fuel levels and plan ahead. Stocking up before a storm helps ensure that your home stays warm and your business continues running, even if road conditions temporarily delay deliveries.

5. Create a Safe Environment for Our Drivers. Please keep pets inside during deliveries and make sure outdoor areas are well-lit. These small steps help our drivers complete their work safely and efficiently.

6. Stay in Touch. We understand that timely delivery is essential during the winter months. If you have questions about your order, need to check your delivery status, or want to set up automatic deliveries, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our customer care team is here to help.

A Holiday Message from Our Team. At this special time of year, we are grateful for the trust you place in us to keep your homes and businesses warm. Our drivers and staff work hard—even in the toughest winter conditions—to ensure safe, dependable fuel delivery. With a little preparation and teamwork, we can make every delivery smooth and stress-free.

From all of us here at Dennis K Burke Inc, we wish you a safe, warm, and happy holiday season. Thank you for letting us be part of your celebrations and your comfort this winter.

Fuel tanks are built to be tough, but they aren’t built to last forever without care. Whether aboveground, underground, or mobile, tanks are exposed to corrosion, contamination, and wear that can compromise safety and reliability. Routine maintenance is the key to keeping them in service for the long haul while protecting people, property, and the environment.

Why Maintenance Matters
Fuel tank maintenance isn’t just about extending the life of equipment; it’s about preventing accidents and avoiding unnecessary costs. A neglected tank can lead to leaks, spills, fires, and expensive cleanup. Poor fuel quality can damage engines, clog filters, and cause downtime. In many cases, regulatory agencies also require inspections and records, making proper care a matter of compliance as well as safety.
Simply put, regular maintenance saves money, reduces risk, and keeps your operation running smoothly.

Essential Maintenance Practices
Inspect Regularly
Perform routine checks for rust, dents, leaks, and stains around the tank and fittings. Make sure gauges, vents, and spill buckets are working properly. Most tanks also require professional inspections on an annual basis.
Keep Tanks Clean
Water, dirt, and microbial growth can accumulate in a tank over time. This contamination not only accelerates corrosion but can also compromise fuel quality. Cleaning out sediment and using services like fuel polishing helps keep fuel clean and equipment running efficiently.
Monitor Fuel Quality
Fuel sitting in storage can degrade, especially in standby tanks. Regular testing can reveal water, particulates, or bacteria before they cause problems. Adding biocides or stabilizers may be necessary in certain environments to maintain fuel integrity.
Guard Against Corrosion
Steel tanks are particularly vulnerable to corrosion. Protective coatings, linings, and cathodic protection systems are effective safeguards. Replacing worn seals, gaskets, and fittings promptly also helps prevent leaks and damage.
Maintain Safety Devices
Safety systems only work if they’re maintained. Calibrate tank gauges, test overfill alarms, and ensure spill prevention systems function as designed. These small steps provide a critical line of defense against major incidents.

Building a Strong Maintenance Program
Tank maintenance goes beyond physical upkeep. Employees should be trained in fuel handling, emergency procedures, and spotting warning signs of trouble. Good documentation is equally important; inspection logs, fuel test results, and maintenance records demonstrate compliance and create accountability. Many businesses choose to partner with certified tank service providers. Professionals can handle inspections, cleanings, and compliance requirements while ensuring maintenance meets regulatory standards.

The Bottom Line
Fuel tanks are long-term assets when they’re maintained, and major liabilities when they’re not. By committing to a consistent maintenance program, you can extend the life of your tanks, protect your workforce, and avoid unnecessary expenses. In the end, fuel tank maintenance is about more than preserving equipment. It’s about ensuring safety, protecting the environment, and keeping your operation dependable and compliant.

As October arrives, we begin the shift from the long, warm days of summer to the cooler, shorter days of autumn. While fall brings crisp air and vibrant foliage, it also introduces new safety challenges for delivery operations. Wet leaves, reduced daylight, and changing weather patterns all increase potential hazards for drivers and customers alike. Preparing for these changes ensures safe, efficient deliveries throughout the season.

Slippery Surfaces from Leaves and Moisture
Fallen leaves may look picturesque, but when damp, they can be as slick as ice. They can cover driveways, walkways, and access points, hiding uneven surfaces or obstacles beneath. For delivery drivers carrying heavy hoses or equipment, this presents a real slip-and-fall risk. Customers can help by regularly clearing leaves from tank areas and delivery paths, especially after rain.

Shorter Days and Night Driving
By late September, daylight hours are significantly reduced. This means more deliveries will take place during dawn, dusk, or after dark—times when visibility is compromised. Poor lighting not only makes it harder for drivers to see hazards but also increases the risk of missing driveways or delivery locations. Installing motion-sensor or path lighting near tanks and along access routes helps ensure a driver can work safely.

Clear Access for Deliveries
Untrimmed branches, overgrown shrubs, or seasonal decorations can block access to tanks. In fall, fallen branches from windy weather can also create obstructions. Customers can assist by trimming vegetation, removing debris, and ensuring driveways are wide enough for safe truck access. For rural or wooded areas, marking driveways and tank locations with reflective markers can be extremely helpful, especially in low light.

Weather Awareness and Preparedness
Autumn often brings unpredictable weather—sudden rainstorms, early frosts, and even the first snow in some areas. Wet conditions can turn to ice overnight, especially on shaded surfaces. Both customers and drivers should be alert to changing forecasts. Applying salt or sand to slippery areas can prevent accidents during early-season cold snaps.

Driver Best Practices
For delivery professionals, fall safety means adjusting driving habits and being ready for seasonal hazards. This includes reducing speed on leaf-covered roads, maintaining extra stopping distance, and using headlights earlier in the day. Wearing reflective clothing or high-visibility vests during low-light deliveries is a smart precaution.

A Team Effort for Safety
Safe fall deliveries rely on cooperation between drivers and customers. When customers prepare their property and drivers adjust for seasonal changes, the risks are minimized for everyone involved.

By taking a few proactive steps—clearing leaves, improving lighting, trimming access points, and monitoring weather—we can ensure that the fall transition is smooth and safe. Working together helps deliveries stay on schedule while protecting both people and property.

This autumn, let’s embrace the season’s beauty while staying mindful of its hazards. Safety starts with preparation, and a little effort now can make a big difference as we head toward winter.

Every September, the trucking industry takes a moment to thank the men and women who keep America moving. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (September 14–20) is...