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NASCAR Pit Crews Must Wear Fire-Protective Gear

After a pit road accident at Richmond which led to an explosion, NASCAR has issued new rules for pit crews.
NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Paul Menard (27) pits during the Spongebob Squarepants 400 at Kansas Speedway.

CONCORD, N.C. (AP) - NASCAR is updating its fire safety requirements for race teams in the wake of an explosive accident on pit road at Richmond.

Three crew members were injured in a fire that erupted during a pit stop in last month's Xfinity Series race. Fuel spilled as the crew was servicing Brendan Gaughan's car and a spark ignited the blaze.

NASCAR senior vice president Robin Pemberton said Friday the Richmond fire was caused when a fastener bolt failed on the gas can.

NASCAR will now mandate all over-the-wall pit crew members wear fire-protective underwear, socks, head socks and gloves. All previously were recommended for over-the-wall pit crew members other than the gas man.

The mandate takes effect June 4, except for the socks, which must be SFI-certified by August.

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