LPG is a popular fuel used in almost every household. It is used in different industries for different applications. Gas cylinder booking apps have made the process of booking LPG cylinders simple and convenient. Though everything related to LPG is convenient, many safety protocols are needed to be followed while handling LPG. Below are some of the safety tips and precautions related to LPG:
General Safety Tips related to LPG
Air is lighter than LPG vapor. Any leakage goes down to the ground and gets collected in low-lying areas. Do not keep highly combustible material, hot surfaces, and ignition sources lower than the LPG vessel or places adjacent to the vessel. LPG evaporates and cools rapidly. It can cause severe cold burns when it comes in contact with the skin or also if you touch any type of LPG equipment without protective goggles and gloves. LPG is a non-toxic gas but has an anesthetic effect when combined in high concentrations with air. The risk of suffocation depends on the concentration as the oxygen declines. LPG is odorless, therefore Ethyl Mercaptan, a smelling agent is added to detect LPG leaks. It is not recommended to detect leaks with any kind of ignition or a naked flame. LPG is highly inflammable like any other fuel. It must be kept in a well-ventilated area away from any source of ignition. When the temperature rises, LPG also starts expanding rapidly. Storage tanks, equipment, and pipelines must be protected against high pressure due to liquid expansion with rising temperatures.LPG causes deterioration of natural rubber and even plastics. Only use equipment designed for LPG.
Safe Storage
- Always keep gas cylinders in a ventilated place, far from open flames, power points, and electrical appliances. Never store cylinders in a closed area as the gas is heavier than air which will cause it to accumulate in low-lying areas causing a flammable mixture.
- Don’t store the cooking gas cylinder in direct sunlight and near to a heat source.
- Always make use of a hose made specifically for LPG. This hose should have a length of at least 2m. The hose should have clamps at both ends. It is recommended to change the hose every 2 years as they get damaged over time.
- When a gas cylinder is in use, it should be equipped with a pressure regulator made specifically for either butane or propane. This helps in regulating the temperature when there is a temperature change. Make sure you are using the correct regulator.
- Follow the instructions properly while connecting the gas cylinder with the pressure regulator. Make sure not to open the gas cylinder valve until the pressure regulator is attached.
- Don’t smoke during the connection of equipment and never check the leak with a flame.
- Check the washer of the pressure regulator before connecting a new cylinder. If a rubber looks damaged then replace it or contact your gas supplier for any advice.
Emergency Procedures in case of an indoor gas leak:
If you smell gas:
- Switch off the valve of the cylinder or tank.
- Extinguish all flames immediately.
- Do not use any electrical equipment.
- Open all windows and doors to ventilate the area.
- Contact your gas supplier or technician who helps in maintaining your appliances.
- If the leak is on a gas cylinder, move it to a ventilated outdoor area.
In case of Major Leak or Fire
- Call the fire brigade immediately, informing them about the leak/fire involving LPG.
- Take everyone out of the premises in case of a leak or an indoor fire.
- Evacuate all people from the area in concern in case of an outdoor leak.
- Call your gas supplier.
- Inform the fire brigade about the areas where LPG is stored.
