Should hazmat drivers turn off the engine when fueling?

The correct answer to whether hazmat drivers should turn off the engine when fueling is indeed "Yes." Turning off the engine while fueling is an important safety measure designed to prevent fire hazards. Fueling involves handling flammable liquids, and having an engine running increases the risk of ignition due to potential sparks or heat from the engine components.

When the engine is off, the possibility of combustion is significantly reduced, making the fueling process safer for both the driver and the environment. This is particularly critical when transporting hazardous materials, as the consequences of a fire or explosion can be catastrophic.

While there may be instances in practice where specific regulations or company policies dictate different procedures or exceptions, the general rule across most regulations, including those relevant to hazmat transportation, is to turn off the engine to ensure safety during the fueling process.