Despite repeated warnings from authorities advising against stockpiling fuel due to concerns it will exacerbate price hikes by outstripping supply, a segment of the Australian population continues to fill jerry cans and store petrol at home. This surge in demand has reached a point where major retailers, including Bunnings, are experiencing stock shortages of jerry cans, making them the most frequently searched item on the hardware giant’s website. The trend has extended to online marketplaces like Facebook, where individuals are even listing their used fuel containers for sale.
However, before considering the purchase of a second-hand fuel container, there are several crucial factors that require careful consideration.
Assessing the Safety of Second-Hand Jerry Cans
The age of a second-hand fuel container is a primary concern. Liz Radcliff, Executive Director of WorkSafe Tasmania, advises against using plastic jerry cans that are older than five years, as they may degrade or lose their structural integrity over time. Unlike retail businesses, which are legally obligated to ensure the products they sell meet safety standards, the market for second-hand items is far less regulated. This lack of oversight significantly increases the risk of non-compliant fuel containers being offered for sale online.
Degraded or aged containers pose a substantial risk. Ms. Radcliff highlights that such containers can rupture or leak, leading to fuel spills, which in turn create hazardous situations during transport. Furthermore, there is an elevated risk of fire due to the release of fuel vapours in enclosed spaces. Consequently, using damaged or expired containers dramatically amplifies the danger of ignition and should be strictly avoided.
To determine the age of a plastic fuel container, look for a date stamp moulded directly into the plastic. This stamp typically indicates the month and year of manufacture. Even if a container appears to be within its recommended lifespan, Ms. Radcliff strongly advises against purchasing any that exhibit signs of damage, swelling, distortion, or other defects.
Ensuring Fuel Container Approval and Compliance
Beyond age, a critical aspect for any fuel container, whether new or second-hand, is its approval for fuel storage. The Australian Dangerous Goods Code mandates that portable plastic and metal fuel containers with a capacity of up to 25 litres must adhere to Australian Standard 2906. They are also required to display a United Nations (UN) approval marking, signifying that they have successfully undergone rigorous safety testing.
Ms. Radcliff describes this approval process as “rigorous,” designed to ensure that fuel containers will not corrode, leak, or break under typical handling conditions. She also recommends that consumers avoid using containers larger than 25 litres, as larger volumes increase the risk of ignition from static electricity.
Any fuel container that fails to meet both the age and approval requirements should never be used for fuel storage. Furthermore, selling containers that do not comply with these regulations is illegal and can result in significant penalties. For instance, in Tasmania, individuals found selling or supplying non-compliant fuel containers can face fines exceeding $7,000, while businesses can be penalised with fines upwards of $34,000.
Consequences of Unsafe Fuel Storage and Stockpiling
Storing or transporting fuel in an unsafe manner can have severe repercussions. Mel Percival, General Manager of Advocacy and Government Relations at RACT, points out that such practices could even invalidate insurance policies. It is highly recommended to consult with your insurance provider and carefully review your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to understand any exclusions or conditions that might apply to your insurance policy concerning fuel.
Storing excessive quantities of fuel or doing so unsafely could lead to your insurance policy being voided if the fuel subsequently causes damage or loss, leaving you personally liable for the financial consequences. The risks are amplified when using second-hand containers. While Australia does not have a specific offence for stockpiling fuel, authorities caution that penalties can still be imposed if fuel storage or transport regulations are breached. Service stations also face penalties if they dispense fuel into non-compliant containers.
Alternative Strategies for Fuel Savings
Experts universally agree that there are more effective and safer methods to save money on fuel than resorting to stockpiling, irrespective of whether a jerry can is new or second-hand. According to RACT, implementing several straightforward strategies can lead to a reduction in fuel costs, potentially saving over $500 annually.
Here are some key steps to help reduce your fuel expenses:
- Drive More Smoothly: Employ gentle acceleration and braking. This driving style consumes less fuel compared to frequent stop-start manoeuvres.
- Utilise Cruise Control: On open roads, using cruise control helps maintain a steady fuel consumption by preventing unnecessary speed fluctuations.
- Maintain Optimal Tyre Pressure: Regularly check your tyre pressure. Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, leading to reduced fuel efficiency.
- Remove Unnecessary Weight and Aerodynamic Drag: Take off roof racks when not in use and remove any excess weight from your vehicle. Increased drag and load force the engine to work harder, consuming more fuel.
- Plan Your Trips Efficiently: Combine errands and plan your routes in advance. This minimises overall travel distance and reduces the number of short trips, during which engines are less efficient.
- Limit Air Conditioning Use: In mild weather, limit the use of your air conditioning. It places an additional strain on the engine, thereby increasing fuel consumption.
Ms. Percival suggests that adopting these driving habits can be equivalent to saving more than 35 cents per litre at the pump. She advocates for following these tips and resetting your trip meter to monitor the extended distance you can travel on a single tank of fuel. Another vital strategy is to actively compare fuel prices, utilising price-tracking apps to identify the most affordable service stations and taking advantage of any eligible membership discounts.
