Forecourt Safety

March 17, 2026

What Every Technician and Site Operator Needs to Know

Safety on the forecourt has come a long way. With today’s advanced equipment and systems, fuel-related incidents have significantly decreased—but that doesn’t mean the risks are gone.

In fact, many of the hazards we see today come from something much less predictable: people, movement, and environment.

To help address this, POST developed a Forecourt Safety video that walks through real-world scenarios, common hazards, and practical steps technicians and site operators can take to keep worksites safe.

👉 If you haven’t seen it yet, it’s a must-watch for anyone working on or around a forecourt.

Why Forecourt Safety Still Matters

Forecourts are dynamic, high-traffic environments. At any given moment, you may have:

  • Vehicles entering and exiting

  • Customers are distracted by phones or rushing

  • Technicians working on active equipment

It only takes a moment of inattention for a routine task to turn into a serious incident.

That’s why forecourt safety isn’t just about equipment—it’s about awareness, communication, and teamwork.

Key Risks to Watch For

1. Vehicle Traffic & Public Interaction

One of the biggest risks on the forecourt is the interaction between workers and the public.

Customers don’t always recognize work zones—and with the rise of quieter electric vehicles, the risk of unnoticed movement is increasing.

What this means:
Stay alert, make your presence visible, and never assume others see you.

2. Slips, Trips & Spills

Fuel, oil, water, snow, and ice can quickly create hazardous surfaces.

These are some of the most common—and preventable—incidents on site.

Best practice:
Clean spills immediately, maintain walkways, and stay ahead of seasonal conditions.

3. Hazardous Substances

Improper handling of fuels and chemicals can lead to burns, respiratory issues, or environmental damage.

Always:

  • Use proper storage and labelling

  • Refer to Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

  • Follow WHMIS requirements

4. Poor Housekeeping

Cluttered spaces and blocked access points can quickly escalate into serious hazards—especially in environments with ignition sources.

Keep it simple:
A clean, organized site is a safer site.

Communication Comes First

Before any work begins, there should be a clear discussion between the technician and the site operator.

This includes:

  • Scope of work

  • Potential hazards

  • Safety controls

POST documentation—like Job Safety Analyses (JSAs) and Safe Work Permits—helps formalize this process and ensures everyone is aligned.

These aren’t just forms—they’re essential safety tools.

Don’t Overlook PPE

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is your first line of defence.

From high-visibility apparel to gloves and eye protection, each piece plays a role in protecting you from specific hazards.

Just as importantly, PPE signals to others that work is in progress—helping prevent incidents before they happen.

Barricading: A Simple Step That Saves Lives

Barricading is one of the most effective ways to control the work area.

It:

  • Keeps vehicles and pedestrians out

  • Protects workers from traffic

  • Clearly defines the work zone

If your work area isn’t properly barricaded, you’re relying on others to “just know”—and that’s a risk you don’t want to take.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Every forecourt should have a clear emergency plan—and everyone on site should understand it.

Before starting work, make sure you know:

  • Muster points

  • Emergency contacts

  • Evacuation procedures

Preparation makes all the difference when seconds count.

Watch the Video: See Forecourt Safety in Action

While understanding the concepts is important, seeing them applied in real scenarios brings everything together.

The POST Forecourt Safety video demonstrates:

  • Real hazards on active forecourts

  • Proper barricading techniques

  • Communication between technicians and site operators

  • Safe work practices in action

👉 Take a few minutes to watch and share it with your team—it’s a valuable tool for safety meetings and toolbox talks.

Final Thought

Forecourt safety isn’t one person’s job—it’s a shared responsibility.

When technicians and site operators work together, communicate clearly, and follow best practices, risks can be significantly reduced.

Stay aware. Stay prepared. And keep safety at the forefront of your mind—every time you step onto the forecourt.