On August 12th, at around 11:40 pm, an explosion occurred at a gas station in Tianjin Binhai New Area. Although the cause of the explosion is still under investigation, we should be aware that gas stations and fuel storage areas are extremely dangerous places and we must be cautious in our behavior. One common practice that should be avoided is using a mobile phone at a gas station. This is playing with fire, as gas stations are highly flammable environments. So, why exactly is it dangerous to use a mobile phone at a gas station?
Why is it dangerous to use a mobile phone at a gas station?
When a mobile phone is in standby mode, the internal current is only around 10mA. However, when making a phone call, the phone is in active mode and the internal current increases, potentially creating sparks. If the concentration of fuel in the gas station reaches a certain level, an explosion can occur. Therefore, it is not advisable to use a mobile phone at a gas station.
How can using a mobile phone at a gas station cause an explosion?
1. When the environment is filled with strong electromagnetic waves, a mobile phone may ignite flammable gases.
2. When there is a metal structure similar to a receiving antenna, a mobile phone may generate radio frequency currents, leading to discharge and potentially causing the combustion of flammable gases.
3. If there is a faulty metal structure in the vicinity, mobile phone usage can also generate electrical sparks.
4. To meet explosion conditions, the concentration of fuel and air in the environment needs to reach a certain standard. The explosive concentration occurs when the fuel occupies 5-14% of the total air volume.
What else should not be done at a gas station?
In addition to not using a mobile phone at a gas station, there are other things that should be avoided.
Starting a motorcycle in place after refueling
Motorcycle riders often start their bikes in place immediately after refueling, which poses a safety hazard. Due to the nature of motorcycles, sparks can be generated during the ignition moment and in the exhaust emissions, potentially causing accidents.
Correct approach: Push the motorcycle at least 4.5 meters away from the refueling area before starting the engine.
Smoking at a gas station
Smoking is strictly prohibited at gas stations. Whether inside or outside the station, drivers and passengers should refrain from smoking. The presence of a large amount of flammable gas molecules near the gas station can easily ignite even the smallest spark.
Refueling during thunderstorms
It is advisable to avoid refueling during thunderstorms. Gasoline is a highly volatile substance, and after refueling, the concentration of oil mist in the surrounding air increases. Refueling during thunderstorms can potentially lead to fires.
Wearing clothing that generates static electricity
If wearing clothing that is prone to generating static electricity when refueling, there is a high risk of igniting the flammable and explosive gas molecules present in the gas station.
Common materials that easily generate static electricity include synthetic fibers, nylon, and knitted fabrics. It is important to avoid slapping, taking off, or putting on such clothing at a gas station. Additionally, during autumn and winter seasons, avoid brushing hair at a gas station.
Driving recklessly through a gas station
Some people may drive through a gas station randomly, taking shortcuts or due to traffic congestion. This is very dangerous as it seriously disrupts the normal order of the gas station and increases safety risks.
