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Regulations for Transport of Fuel in Cans

The updated fuel transportation regulations enacted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) went into effect for all states in January 2009. The move began as a clean-air law in California in 2000 by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), that became EPA policy and was updated in 2007 to make compliance by 2009 mandatory for all states. These new rules demand that all portable fuel containers (PFCs) made and sold in the U.S. are compliant with environmental and personal safety.

  1. Self Closing Lids

    • New PFCs must have self-closing spouts, caps, or lids that spring shut when not in use. This keeps vapors that cause greenhouse gases from escaping into the atmosphere or ground water sources. The self-closing caps protect against spillage that can also contaminate ground water or cause fires.

    Childproofing

    • New PFCs must have childproof openings to prevent accidental exposure to dangerous chemicals by infants and children. Childproof openings not only protect the children from exposure, but also avoid accidental spills or leaks if left open and/or knocked over by a child.

    Vents

    • PFCs need a single vent in conjunction with their fill/pour opening instead of a separate vent that could leak or allow spillage if the can is knocked over. A secondary vent opening is allowed only if the vent is tamper-proof and spill-proof. It must not allow the emission of hydrocarbon vapors into the atmosphere other than normal emissions during filling and handling.

    Color

    • Legal PFCs must conform to a standard color regulation. Gasoline containers are red, diesel containers are yellow and kerosene containers are blue. The spout must have stamped lettering embossed on it labeling the fuel type of the container in a large 34-point, Arial or other easy-to-read font.

    Vapor Permeation

    • Fuel containers produced after July 1, 2007 must not emit more than 0.4 grams of vapor per gallon a day. Those produced after January 1, 2009 must not emit more than 0.3 grams.

    Design

    • Fuel containers are designed to have an easy-to-recognize appearance. Fuel must not be transported in any container that does not meet the required standards, is not made specifically for the purpose of transporting fuel, and is not the proper color for the fuel type.

    Warranties

    • All PFCs must have at least a one-year guarantee that they meet all of the required EPA specifications.

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