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EPA Fuel Container Regulations

The goal of the Environmental Protection Agency's rules and regulations concerning fuel containers is simple: protection. The EPA has instituted rules for all kinds of fuel cans with consumer safety in mind. Therefore, there are methods of protecting the air from excessive emissions, keeping Benzene leaks out of public areas, and protecting children from accidental contact.

  1. Limiting Benzene Emissions

    • Benzene is a cancer-causing chemical which is accidentally released mostly from portable fuel containers. Beginning in 2011, the EPA will suggest that the Benzene content of transported gasoline be only .62 percent of the volume of the gasoline in the container. By 2012, the EPA will mandate a maximum of 1.3 percent. Companies that currently choose to reach the EPA's goals will be granted credits which can be saved or used toward other refiners or importers of fuel or fuel cans. The EPA expects these new rules to lower benzene emissions by 38 percent by 2012.

    Physical Features

    • Since January of 2009, the EPA has required all portable fuel containers to possess an automatic closure spout; this means that when fuel is not being poured out of the container, the container must automatically close itself. Fuel containers must also be made of a lining that is resistant to gases flowing out of the container from the fuel. Emissions must be no higher than .3 grams per gallon per day. Containers must also have child-resistant closing mechanisms.

    Recommendations for Private Vehicles

    • The EPA lists a number of recommendations for drivers of private vehicles. To reduce fuel emissions from a gas can, the EPA recommends that the driver purchase a non-permeable gasoline counter with a spill-proof opening. The Agency also recommends that drivers exercise caution when filling gas tanks: not to overspill the gasoline onto the ground. Also, drivers may use a type of fitted funnel between the gas pump and the gas tank in order to minimize spillage. If gasoline is stored in containers (in a garage or shed), it should be stored in well-ventilated spaces. The EPA is currently also working on finalizing its regulations for emissions standards in private vehicles in winter temperatures. The EPA expects their regulations to cut emissions from private vehicles by 330,000 tons per year by 2030.

    Extending the Rules

    • In light of the support that the EPA has received from many states for its standards on fuel containment, the agency has decided to extend those regulations to diesel and kerosene containers as well.

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