Jonathan Collier highlights how to make sure you always choose safe, compliant LPG cylinders.

Non-refillable LPG cylinders sit at the heart of many soldering, brazing and heating tasks on site. They are widely used, but some merchants and installers are unaware of the rules that govern how they must be marked, stored, transported and disposed of. Their convenience and performance make them a trusted part of the trade toolkit, but it’s important that merchants and installers always choose compliant, safe cylinders to protect themselves and their customers. 

LPG and propylene gases are stored in cylinders as a liquid under pressure. When stored and used correctly they are safe, but they do contain properties that can make them a potential hazard. Any leak may result in a flammable/explosive atmosphere that could cause injury if ignited. Merchants and installers who understand how to use and transport the cylinders safely, and how to spot whether the cylinders they choose are compliant, will be best placed to protect themselves, their customers and the wider supply chain.

What does compliant mean?

To be compliant, a welded or brazed non-refillable cylinder for use with LPG and Propylene gases must meet ISO 11118 construction standards. This includes the use of a non-refillable sealing device and the correct UN number marking for transport. 

Cylinders must be marked with the correct number: UN 1077 identifies propylene, while UN 1978 identifies propane. If the UN number is not either of these, and/or the ISO 11118 reference is missing, the cylinder is not compliant. This could mean that it does not contain a non-refillable sealing device, does not meet the minimum safety specification, or that it is incorrectly transported under Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) regulations. Using a non-compliant cylinder introduces risks the merchant, installer or transport contractor cannot control. These non-refillable LPG cylinders must be fitted with a pressure-relief valve and should also be dispatched with a data sheet to ensure installers fully understand the required safety procedures. 

Storing cylinders safely

When LPG cylinders are stored indoors, minimum separation distances apply and you should check with your Health and Safety representative what quantities can be stored at a trade counter and in a warehouse. Storing significant quantities in industrial premises, however, requires additional precautions under the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR). These include minimum separation distances between the cylinders and boundaries or other ignition sources and, potentially, the installation of an atmospheric box. Any business wishing to store between 15kg and 400kg of LPG indoors should contact a DSEAR Advisor to assess their specific requirements.

Transporting cylinders

Transport is a common area of non-compliance. For example, installers who carry cylinders in vans must keep them upright, secure them correctly and ensure the vehicle is ventilated. Cylinders must not travel loose in the cab, and the torch should always be disconnected during transport. Merchants, distributors and their carriers/couriers must be aware of and follow the ADR regulations for transport of these items.

The entire industry has a shared responsibility to keep these products safe. Distributors, merchants and carriers all have legal duties to meet.  When these steps are followed, LPG gas cylinders are reliable and safe to use. When the whole supply chain follows the HSW 1974, ADR and standards, there is a better chance the industry remains safe and professional.

Jonathan Collier is Managing
Director of Monument Tools.