Interpretation ID: aiam3145
Chief
Cleveland Fire Department
1645 Superior Avenue
Cleveland
OH 44114;
Dear Mr. Barry: This is in response to your letter of July 2, 1979, in which you aske for copies of any current or recommended standards concerning the use of plastic auxiliary fuel tanks. May I apologize for the delay in this response.; I have enclosed a copy of a letter, which was sent to a company whic planned to manufacture auxiliary fuel tanks and to do some installation, that details the ways in which the safety standards and statutes administered by this agency apply to the manufacture of auxiliary fuel tanks of all types. In addition, I have enclosed a copy of an advance notice of proposed rulemaking that this agency issued with respect to a proposal to issue performance standards applicable to nonmetallic fuel tanks.; At this time the agency does not have any standards applicable to th use of auxiliary fuel tanks. However, several months ago we issued a consumer advisory warning against carrying fuel in portable containers in the trunks of cars. We consider this advisory applicable not only to portable containers but to any fuel container mounted in an area not normally consigned to such use. I have enclosed a copy of this advisory for your information. In addition, we are planning to issue a press release in the near future specifically addressed to the dangers of using auxiliary fuel tanks.; If you have any reports, case histories, photographs, or other materia concerning any fires or fire problems caused by the use of auxiliary fuel tanks we would be most grateful if you would allow us to examine them. Your concern in this area of vehicle safety is deeply appreciated.; Sincerely, Frank Berndt, Chief Counsel