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LPG Cylinder Safety

When working with cylinders or operating cylinder valves, ensure that you wear appropriate protective clothing - gloves, boots and safety glasses.

Basic Safety Rules for Cylinders

  • Ensure all equipment is connected correctly

  • Use a soapy water mix to check for leaks. Never use a match

  • Ensure all LPG equipment is in first class condition

  • Ensure your quantity of cylinders stored complies with local regulations

  • Always turn off valves when not in use

  • Always store cylinders upright

  • In case of a leak, move cylinders to a safe location

  • Store cylinders away from possible ignition points

  • Store cylinders away from excessive heat

  • Stored cylinders must not obstruct passageways or exits

  • Do not store cylinders in cellars, basements or confined spaces

  • Ensure all staff are trained on emergency procedures

  • During transportation, all cylinders must be adequately restrained.

Care of LPG Cylinders and Fittings

  • Every cylinder must be inspected by an authorised LPG test station at least once every 10 years. The last inspection date should be clearly stamped on the cylinder collar, neck or footing

  • If any leakage is detected or suspected from a cylinder, turn it off immediately and refer to emergency procedures

  • LPG cylinders (except specially designed forklift and automotive cylinders) must always be stored and transported in an upright position to comply with safety regulations

  • Cylinders should be stored in a well ventilated space and away from possible sources of ignition, excess heat or other compressed gases

  • Always secure cylinders during transport. Remove hoses, regulators and fittings and attach a sealing plug whenever the cylinder is not in use

  • Always shut off cylinder valve before disconnecting and ensure equipment is turned off fully before connecting new cylinder

  • The filling of any cylinder (other than automotive) from a service station bowser is an offence.

Use and Care of LPG Appliances

  1. Installation and maintenance of LPG appliances must only be carried out by licensed or authorised LPG installers or service company

  2. The installer is responsible to ensure that new or replacement appliances are connected, tested, adjusted and in safe working order. Appliance operating instructions should be handed to the consumer and explained by the installer

  3. LPG appliances must not be connected to other gas supply systems, such as natural gas

  4. Adequate ventilation must be provided to allow air for satisfactory combustion and ensure ample dispersal of the burnt gases. This is particularly important for unflued appliances

  5. Installations in caravans, recreational vehicles and boats must comply with the installation code applicable to fixed appliances. Cylinder compartments must be sealed from the interior of vehicles/boats and vented to the outside. Cylinder valves must be closed when a caravan is in transit. Never use any gas appliance, including a refrigerator, in a moving vehicle

  6. Turn off every LPG appliance in caravans/boats before refuelling

  7. Do not use unflued LPG appliances under any circumstances in bedrooms, bathrooms or sleeping annexes.