Fuel management
Refuelling a quad
Photo: M. Benavente | Antarctic stations and logistics rely on the use of fuel.
Diesel fuel is used to make water, generate power for light and heating, run vehicles, aircraft and camp stoves. Although we are implementing renewable energy options, particularly at Mawson with the wind turbines and hydrogen demonstration project, we still rely heavily on fossil fuels.
Fuel transfer is always a potentially hazardous procedure, whether it be a major station refuelling operation, or refilling a quad out in the field.
The AAD has developed Fuel Transfer Standard Operating Procedures for all station and field refuelling operations. Observe all the protocols when refuelling your vehicles either on station or out in the field. Always use a spill tray when refuelling a stove out in the field.
To minimise the potential for fuel spills, observe the following rules:
- Always refuel vehicles on return to station
- If refuelling in the field take a field fuel spill kit and be familiar with its operation
- Only refuel in still conditions to minimise the likelihood of spills
- If fuel is spilt, use the fuel spill kit to contain the spill and if possible return contaminated snow/soil for treatment on station
- Report all spills to the Station Environment Officer
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