Safety Information and Updates

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.

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...

When summer temperatures rise, the risk of heat stress becomes a serious concern for fuel delivery drivers. Spending long hours in hot conditions, especially while loading and delivering fuel, can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke if precautions aren’t taken.

Signs of Heat Stress:
It’s crucial to recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses early. Common signs include:

• Heavy sweating
• Fatigue and dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion, headache, or fainting

How to Prevent Heat Stress:
To stay safe during summer driving, fuel delivery drivers should follow these key tips:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can contribute to dehydration.
2. Dress for the Heat: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to help your body stay cool. When required, ensure your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is comfortable and breathable.
3. Take Breaks: Schedule breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas to cool down, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
4. Use Vehicle Cooling Systems: Take advantage of your truck’s air conditioning and keep the cab ventilated.
5. Carry Summer Supplies: Keep the following items in your truck to help combat the heat:
   • Extra water bottles
   • Electrolyte drinks (to replenish lost minerals)
   • Cooling towels or ice packs
   • A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)

By preparing for the heat and monitoring your body for early signs of heat stress, you can reduce the risk of heat-related illness and stay safe on the road.

Employer Responsibilities
Employers should provide heat safety training, access to water, and shaded or cooled rest areas. Regular wellness checks during heat waves and equipping trucks with working AC units can go a long way in protecting workers.

Heat stress is preventable, but only if drivers and employers work together to stay aware, prepared, and proactive. As the climate continues to warm, heat safety will become even more critical in ensuring the well-being of our essential fuel delivery workforce.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is an essential component of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems used in modern diesel engines to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. While DEF is non-toxic, non-flammable, and safe to handle, improper storage and use can compromise its effectiveness and potentially damage your vehicle’s emission system. Here are the best practices for the safe handling, storage, and use of DEF.

DEF is a solution made of 32.5% high-purity urea and 67.5% deionized water. It meets strict ISO 22241 standards to ensure quality and compatibility with SCR systems. It is important to keep DEF free of dirt, oil, fuel, and other substances. Even small contaminants can affect its performance and damage the SCR system. Use only dedicated DEF equipment for dispensing and storage to prevent contamination. DEF is not a fuel or fuel additive; it is injected into the exhaust stream to facilitate the chemical reaction that reduces NOx emissions.

Always use certified DEF that meets ISO 22241 standards. Off-spec or counterfeit DEF can cause system failures. DEF is corrosive to some metals, such as aluminum, copper, and zinc, so use materials like stainless steel or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for storage and dispensing. You should store DEF in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Check storage tanks, dispensing equipment, and DEF systems for leaks or damage regularly. While DEF is non-toxic, it can cause skin or eye irritation if mishandled. Use gloves and safety glasses when handling large quantities.

Ideal storage temperatures range from 12°F (-11°C) to 86°F (30°C). Exposure to extreme heat or freezing temperatures can degrade its quality. Should the DEF freeze in a truck when the truck is shut down, simply start the truck as normal, and the SCR heating system will quickly thaw the DEF, returning it to liquid form, and the vehicle will run as intended. DEF also degrades when exposed to direct sunlight. Use opaque or UV-resistant containers to protect it. DEF has a shelf life of about one year under optimal conditions.

Proper handling, storage, and use of DEF are crucial for maintaining its quality and ensuring the efficient operation of SCR systems. By following these best practices, you can help reduce emissions, avoid costly repairs, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. If you have any questions about DEF, please reach out to our Sales Team 1-800-289-2875!

As winter brings colder temperatures and unpredictable weather, safely receiving fuel deliveries becomes crucial for our customers. At Dennis K. Burke, Inc. we consider Safety one of our top priorities. Here are essential tips from our Safety Department to ensure a smooth and secure process.

We kindly ask that before the delivery, make sure driveways, pathways, and delivery areas are clear of snow and ice. This helps the delivery driver access your location safely and reduces the risk of accidents. Identify a specific area for the driver to unload the product they’re delivering. Make sure this spot is well-marked and free from obstacles, ensuring the driver can deliver safely and efficiently.

Stay in touch. Keep us informed of any special instructions or access issues related to your property. Keeping communication open can help prevent delays and ensure timely, safe and accurate deliveries. Be aware of the weather forecast. If severe weather is predicted, consider scheduling your delivery in advance to avoid any disruptions. Planning ahead can help ensure you have enough fuel to last through winter storms.

If you’re a generator customer, please be sure the generator has a working gauge or whistle. Delivery drivers are not permitted to fill a tank without ensuring they know how much product will fit safely. Oftentimes our drivers arrive to fill generators and discover either the gauge is broken (i.e. not responding when fuel is delivered), or the tank is equipped with a whistle that does not sound. If the driver is unable to determine how much fuel is in the generator, the delivery will have to be stopped until the matter is resolved. This is to protect the customer’s property and avoid having a fuel spill.

Keep an emergency kit handy, including a flashlight and basic supplies, in case the delivery is delayed due to weather conditions. Being prepared can help you stay calm and safe. By following these simple tips, you can ensure a safe and efficient fuel delivery experience during winter months, helping you maintain comfort and safety throughout the season. On behalf of DKB Safety we want to wish all our customers a Safe, Happy, and Healthy Holiday Season.