November 2014

A service tech reported a near miss after working at a site where he implemented
lockout/tagout (LOTO) and attempted to cut power to a dispenser. Working in the sump, the
service tech felt uneasy about the power since he hadnt verified it. The tech then removed
himself from the sump and checked the power, only to find out it was not off, as the circuit
breaker had been mislabeled. According to the submitting company, this near miss
should serve as a reminder that anyone working around electrical power should
always verify, then verify again, both the LOTO and lack of power. The PEI Safety
Committee notes that the tech should notify the site owner that the circuit breaker
was mislabeled, and request that a certified electrician inspect, and properly label,
the circuit breaker. The committee also notes that all companies should have a
written lockout/tagout procedure that includes: notification of those affected by the
LOTO; identification of all energy sources, including stored energy; equipment
shutdown; isolation; application of locks/tags; release of stored energy; and
verification of isolation.
A service tech experienced a near miss after he merged onto the freeway. As he was driving,
other drivers were honking and pointing at the load on the service vehicle. The service tech
then realized that his blower was loose and had nearly fallen off the service vehicle. According
to the submitting company, this near miss should serve as a reminder that drivers
should check their vehicle load before driving. Drivers should ensure all items are
properly tied down and secured. The company also notes that drivers should use
their mirrors to keep a constant watch on the vehicle bed to ensure all items are
intact. The PEI Safety Committee recommends that shortly after beginning a trip, the
driver should take an opportunity to check for settling of the load and the need for
additional tightening of straps. This check should also be performed at all stops along
the way.
A service tech reported a near miss when working at a site where he observed another
contractor working in a scissor lift located directly above an active dispenser. The contractor
was lifting heavy objects onto the canopy roof and had not barricaded the work area. The
service tech communicated with the contractor, alerting him that a tool or part could drop and
injure a customer, worker or vehicle. The contractor was appreciative of the heads-up and
proceeded to delineate his work area to prevent customers from using the dispenser.
According to the submitting company, this near miss should serve as a reminder that
while working in an active forecourt, workers should continually check their
surroundings and if an unsafe situation is observed, take action to make it safer for
workers and the general public. The PEI Safety Committee notes that all work areas
Suggestions made by the PEI Safety Committee are offered for informational purposes only. PEI assumes no responsibility for
the results produced from the advice offered by the Committee.
This newsletter and other safety resources provided by PEI are intended for use solely by member companies. Permission is
granted to reprint, transmit or redistribute this material for your own use so long as the source is credited to Petroleum
Equipment Institute and there is no charge to end users. We request copies of any document based on this material be
shared with PEI electronically (cbouldin@pei.org) or by fax (918-491-9895).

should be established and a barricade maintained to protect workers and patrons. The
committee also notes that there are many ways (testing, study materials, etc.) to
train technicians working in the forecourt to do so properly and to help prevent
injuries to anyone who may be nearby. It is important that employers take the time to
properly train anyone who might work around others.
This PEI SafetyLetter has been reviewed by:
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Petroleum Equipment Institute