Fuel spills involving an area of 18 inches or less in any dimension are normally of minor consequence. Ramp personnel shall?

• A. Post a fireguard upwind with foam-type or halon-type extinguisher until area is purged
• B. Stand by until the aircraft is dispatched
• C. Inert the spill
• D. Immediately report to supervisor

Answer: (B)

Small fuel spills are treated as potential hazards that require proper coordination rather than immediate improvised cleanup. The correct approach is to pause and await instructions from supervision and the flight line dispatcher. This keeps the operation synchronized with aircraft movement and ensures the spill is handled by the right personnel and procedures, without introducing unnecessary risks or delaying departures. In this scenario, standing by until the aircraft is dispatched ensures safety, proper oversight, and a controlled response rather than taking actions that might spread fuel or create ignition opportunities.