Fire safety evaluation of motor fuel dispensing facilities

Purpose - The increasingly improved automotive vehicle production technology has allowed consumers to purchase passenger cars and commercial vehicles at reasonably affordable prices. This has resulted in greater demands for the construction and installation of motor fuel dispensing facilities, or simply "gas stations", in virtually all urban districts worldwide. However, unlike most consumer products, which are designed to be fire resistant, highly flammable gasoline dispensed at these facilities is intended and formulated to burn. Therefore, fire safety of motor fuel dispensing facilitates becomes a major concern since these facilities form one of the greatest fire hazards that millions of people visit everyday. This paper seeks to address this issue. Design/methodology/approach - This paper reviews the current international and local legislation and requirements on fire safety in gas station facilities, and presents the findings of a case study conducted to evaluate fire prevention measures and fire protection equipment in five gas station facilities located in the growing City of Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia, where dispensing of motor fuel is carried out in an outside shaded area by station attendants. Findings - The evaluation revealed that none of the five gas stations is complying with all fire safety regulations. Recommendations are made to improve fire safety at such facilities by regular inspection and evaluation. Research limitations/implications - Although the results are limited to Saudi Arabia the approach taken could be extended to other geographical areas. Practical implications - The paper is of practical value to facility managers responsible for day-to-day operations of gas station facilities. Originality/value - The paper reviews literature from North America as well as that pertaining to the legislation in the country where the case study facilities are located.