Liquefied Petroleum Gases  LPG Cylinders and Associated Equipment Domestic and Commercial Utilization of LPG  LPG as an Automotive Fuel

Liquified Petroleum Gas, often referred to as LPG, is a type of flammable hydrocarbon gas like propane, butane, or a mixture of these gases. When stored under pressure, LPG becomes a liquid which allows for easy transportation and storage. LPG poses numerous hazards ranging from potential leaks and explosions to the dangers posed by improper handling and storage. Liquified petroleum gas is heavier than air and will flow along floors and tend to settle in low spots, such as basements. This could cause an explosion if the mixture of LPG and air is within its explosive limits and there is an ignition source. Workers can be at risk of suffocating if the gas displaces air and reduces the oxygen concentration in the area. Hazardous exposure to LPG can happen by inhalation, skin, and eye contact. Excess pressure due to overfilling, temperature changes, corrosion, a faulty pressure relief valve, or a malfunctioning regulator can lead to leakage, container rupture, damage to connected equipment, or even explosion. Because of these hazards, adequate training must be provided to all workers who may handle compressed or liquified gas cylinders or who will be working near LPG tanks. Appropriate PPE, especially eye and hand protection, should be worn when connecting and disconnecting LPG to or from hoses. Take care when choosing a storage location for liquified petroleum gas. The containers should not be located in any area that has a risk of experiencing excessive heat, tampering by unauthorized persons, or physical damage by passing or falling objects. It’s best to store LPG cylinders at least 20 feet away from the building in an area that is protected from rain, like an open-air cage with floor and a roof. LPG cylinders should not be stored (even temporarily) near exits, stairways, or any other high-traffic areas. Protect stored LPG cylinders from falling by using a support system, like a chain. Consider securing each container individually for easy and safe removal. LPG cylinders should not be rolled, dropped, dragged along the floor, or allowed to bang against other objects. LPG cylinders should be placed in a such a way that the relief valve is in direct contact with the vapor space in the container. LPG cylinders, like propane, may generally be stored in a vertical position. When propane cylinders used to fuel forklifts are placed horizontally the relief device must be at the top. When not in use, the valve on the LPG container should be closed to avoid a potential leak. Do not use excessive force when opening or closing the valve. Carry and transport liquified petroleum gas cylinders in a vertical position, with the valves closed. It is best if the LPG containers have some amount of ventilation while being transported. The LPG cylinders must not be left inside a closed vehicle during hot weather if there is a chance of excessive heat build-up. When transporting an LPG cylinder in a vehicle, it’s generally okay to lay it down but it’s always best to keep it standing up and secured, if possible. Never ask a passenger to hold onto an LPG container. Always transport LPG cylinders in the trunk or cargo area of the vehicle.