Fuel is one of the highest-risk parts of fire performance. A clear fuelling process helps keep performers, safeties and audiences safer.
Fuel needs its own controlled area
- Fuel only in the designated fuelling area.
- Keep the fuelling area separate from the audience and performance area.
- Keep ignition sources away from fuel.
- Close fuel containers when not in use.
- Spin off or otherwise remove excess fuel in the designated area before lighting.
- Do not carry wet props through the audience.
- Clean spills immediately.
- Keep fuel under supervision.
- Pack down and remove fuel safely after the session.
Fuelling hierarchy
Better fuelling starts with using less. Measured fuelling can reduce excess fuel and fuel spray. Where measured fuelling is not practical, use a controlled method that captures excess fuel.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
A Safety Data Sheet provides information about a fuel or chemical, including hazards, handling, storage, first aid, firefighting measures and spill response.
Know what fuel you are using and check the SDS for that product. Performers and fuel-area assistants should know where SDS information is stored and who to escalate to if there is a spill, exposure or other fuel-related incident.
No smoking or vaping near fuel
Smoking, vaping, lighters, sparks and open flame must be kept away from the fuel area. Use visible signage near the fuel zone where practical.
Spin-off and excess fuel
Do not light a dripping prop. Excess fuel should be removed before lighting in a controlled area away from the audience, ignition sources, and surfaces where residue could create a slip hazard. Manage spin-off residue during pack-down.
Spill response
Clean spills and fuel residue promptly. Keep spill-control materials available in the fuel area and ensure fuel-area crew know the escalation process.
This article describes general fuel-handling practices. Official Floasis fuel approval lists and event-specific fuel policies should be confirmed with organisers before an event.