Hawaii is one of the few, if not the only, states in the nation that do not allow hold open latches on gas pump nozzle handles. Known as "Latch-Open Devices" by Fire Codes, these latches/clips reduce pain and barriers to access for people with disabilities affecting grip strength of the hands. One such disability, arthritis, affects more than 12% of the US population. The latches also provide a convenience and safety factor for all individuals refueling.
Model fire codes specifically allow for Latch-Open Devices to be provided at fuel pumps. Despite this, the Hawaii State Fire Council has amended its model code, NFPA 1, to prohibit the Latch-Open Devices. Commentary on this amendment by the State Fire Council indicate it has continued to be held over from previous versions of the fire code amendments out of concerns over spillage and explosions from static buildup. These concerns are no longer valid. The spillage issue has been addressed through modern technology and fire code updates modifying the required controls on the fuel pump nozzles and hoses. The static buildup issues have been thoroughly studied and proven to be statistically insignificant and of inconclusive causation.
Please join us in urging the Hawaii State Fire Council and Hawaii State Legislature to remove these code amendments and allow latch-open devices to be installed at Hawaii gas stations in accordance with the international standard of care.
