Drivers have been urgently warned about a little-known law that they could be breaking when they go to fill up their car at the petrol station.
Signs across the forecourt warn drivers not to use their mobile phones while at the petrol station.
Some drivers assume that this is because phones could cause fires at the station and at any other location where flammable vapours are present.
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However, the United Kingdom Petrol Industry Assocation (UKPIA) has said that there is no evidence linking fires to mobile ignition in any research.
Why are mobile phones banned at petrol stations?
UKPIA claim that there are two major reasons that mobile phones are banned on the forecourt.
The first is that could create a serious distraction for drivers, even if they've just whipped their smartphone out of their pocket to check a text.
Drivers could become distracted while dispensing fuel or crossing the forecourt due to the number of cars getting ready to fill up.
It states: "Using mobile phones can create a serious distraction for people dispensing fuel or crossing the forecourt due to the number of vehicles moving.
"Traffic movements will always present a risk for customers and therefore remaining vigilant and minimising distractions is central to forecourt safety. The distraction caused to pedestrians by mobile phones increases the risk of accidents."
The second reason for the ban is 'incendive sparking'.
UKPIA have stressed that the risk of incendive sparking from a mobile phone but stated that they are not 'intrinsically safe devices' and should not be used on the forecourt.
It added: "Mobile phones are not designed and certified for use in explosive atmospheres which exist temporarily around the pump and nozzle during refuelling as well as around the fill and vent pipes during petrol deliveries."
Where are mobile phones banned?
- In the area of the vehicle filler point when filling a vehicle.
- In the immediate vicinity of a fuel dispenser, except in clearly identified non-hazardous areas specifically intended for portable device use.
- In the immediate vicinity of tank fill points, tank and separator vents.
- In the vicinity of a tanker when unloading.
The UKPIA said: "Generally, there is no need to restrict the use of mobile telephones in other areas of the forecourt, such as in the shop, in parked motor vehicles or in other traffic-free, non-hazardous areas."
