OKLAHOMA CITY -- Consumers can now check out local gas stations for compliance with state regulations via a new Web site, corporation commissioner Jim Roth announced on Monday.

Visit The Web Site

"For the most part our state gas stations do a great job of staying in compliance with Corporation Commission Rules," Roth said. "But when they do have violations, it is our job to inform the public."

Roth said that more than 5,000 stations have been cited since July 2007 for various violations. The Commission has been forced to lock down more than 300 violators during that same time frame, he said.

The Web site notes the nature of each violation, Roth said.

"Not all violations are the same. That is why citizens should do research before purchasing fuel," he said.

State law places the responsibility of regulating gas pumps in the hands of the Corporation Commission Fuel Inspectors. Calibration tests are preformed on all of the state's gas pumps. A pump must be within minus six cubic inches, or about six tablespoons, of a 5-gallon measure in the calibration test.

Operators failing the test are given 24 hours to comply before the pump is locked down. Pumps exceeding 19 cubic inches are locked down immediately. Fuel inspectors also check octane rating, for water in the gas, ethanol content, and compliance with safety and environmental rules.

"It is my responsibility as a commissioner to educate and protect the public," Roth said. "Providing this information will empower citizens to make informed decision about fuel purchases at a time when it is most critical to do so."