What is a possible consequence if a breakaway is compromised during use?

When a breakaway is compromised during use, a significant consequence is fuel spillage and environmental contamination. Breakaways are safety devices designed to disconnect and prevent fuel from spilling in the event of an accidental pull-away when using a fuel dispensing system. If this mechanism fails or is compromised, it can lead to uncontrolled release of fuel, resulting in potential spills on the ground and entering the surrounding environment. This poses a serious risk not only to the environment but also to public safety.

The potential for contamination highlights the importance of maintaining equipment properly and ensuring that breakaways are functioning as intended to mitigate risks associated with fuel handling. Effective vapor recovery systems are designed to minimize emissions and environmental impact, and any failure to containment systems directly threatens these objectives.