Substances

Petrol

Also called gasoline, unleaded, fuel.

An extremely flammable fuel classified as a carcinogen and mutagen because of its benzene content. Vapour causes drowsiness, and swallowing even a small amount can be fatal if it enters the lungs. The main risks at work are fire during refuelling and skin contact when decanting.

Last reviewed 8 September 2026

Hazard data from the HSE GB MCL, the ECHA C&L Inventory and HSE EH40, checked 8 September 2026. Classification checked automatically against the HSE GB mandatory classification list (version 8) and the ECHA C&L inventory on 9 September 2026. Confirm the concentration and form against the supplier data sheet for the product you use.

Identification

CAS number86290-81-5
EC number289-220-8
Physical formliquid
Signal wordDANGER
PictogramsGHS02 Flammable; GHS07 Harmful or irritant; GHS08 Serious health hazard; GHS09 Hazardous to the environment
Routes of exposureinhalation, skin, ingestion

Hazard classification

Harmonised classification from the GB mandatory classification list (index 649-378-00-4), with supplier self-classifications marked. The harmonised entry (Note P) covers the carcinogen, mutagen and aspiration hazards and applies because petrol contains more than 0.1% benzene. Flammability, drowsiness, skin irritation and the environmental hazard are the supplier classification on UK petrol data sheets.

  • Flammable liquid, category 1 (supplier classification)
  • Carcinogenicity, category 1B
  • Germ cell mutagenicity, category 1B
  • Aspiration hazard, category 1
  • Skin irritation, category 2 (supplier classification)
  • Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure, category 3 (supplier classification)
  • Hazardous to the aquatic environment, chronic category 2 (supplier classification)

Hazard statements

  • H224 Extremely flammable liquid and vapour. (supplier classification)
  • H350 May cause cancer.
  • H340 May cause genetic defects.
  • H304 May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways.
  • H315 Causes skin irritation. (supplier classification)
  • H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness. (supplier classification)
  • H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects. (supplier classification)

Workplace exposure limit

No workplace exposure limit is listed in EH40/2005. Exposure must still be reduced as low as is reasonably practicable and adequately controlled.

Products that contain it

Common products whose hazard data comes from this record. The concentration and form vary, so always check the product data sheet.

  • Unleaded petrol (E5 or E10) (Any forecourt). Standard pump petrol in cans for small plant.

Common uses

  • Fuelling mowers, strimmers, generators and vehicles
  • Decanting from jerry cans
  • Cleaning parts (not recommended)

First aid

Swallowed: do not induce vomiting, call 999. Skin: wash with soap and water, remove soaked clothing. Inhaled: fresh air.

In an emergency call 999. For advice call NHS 111. Always follow section 4 of the safety data sheet for the product you have.

Storage

Approved metal or plastic containers, no more than 30 litres without a licence, in a ventilated store away from ignition sources and buildings (Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulations 2014).

Sources

We do not host or copy manufacturer safety data sheets. Ask your supplier for the current sheet for the product you use.