Using Propane Safely e-learning reference material

Guide Book Series

Transportation

Transporting Cylinders Basic safety requirements

It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that their vehicle is safe, well-maintained and has the capability to carry gas cylinders. The driver must have received appropriate training and knowledge about the gases being carried and be aware of the basic actions required in the event of an emergency.

The driver does not need to carry any special documents to transport small quantities of gas cylinders. However, it is useful to have the right information to assist the emergency services in the event of an incident.

It is safe to carry propane cylinders on vehicles providing operators follow some basic legal and safety requirements. This content highlights the basic rules for transporting small numbers of gas cylinders on vehicles whilst at work. Anyone carrying gas cylinders on a vehicle in the course of their work has to comply with ADR (Road Traffic Regulations) . Full compliance with ADR is required to carry toxic or corrosive gases. There are exemptions for other gases if the number of gas cylinders being carried is under the specified threshold limits laid out in ADR. Ideally gas cylinders should be transported in an open vehicle. If this is not possible, drivers must make sure that they have good ventilation to maintain a healthy environment inside the vehicle. The most effective way to improve ventilation is to open a window.

Drivers are not required to display any hazard warning labels or signs on their vehicles if they are only carrying small quantities of gas cylinders.

Organisations must make sure they have informed their insurance company that they are carrying gas cylinders on their vehicle(s).

If the driver suspects that there is a leak from a gas cylinder, they should take the following immediate actions: If driving, stop and park the vehicle as soon as practical in a safe place, away from naked flames and flammable substances. Turn off the ignition. Do not smoke or allow anybody to smoke in the vicinity of the vehicle. Check the cylinder valve. If it is open, close the cylinder valve immediately (if safe to do so).

Smoking must never be allowed in a vehicle when gas cylinders are being carried. This includes everybody - not just the driver.

It is mandatory to carry a fire extinguisher if gas cylinders are being transported at work. A 2kg dry powder extinguisher is the minimum requirement and the driver must be trained in its use. The ignition of a flammable gas following a leak could be catastrophic, also oxidising gases strongly support combustion.

Increase the ventilation in the vehicle. Open all doors, windows, luggage areas etc. If there is a liquid leak (i.e. LPG) do not touch the liquid as it will result in a cold burn. If the cylinder continues to leak, and it is safe to do so, remove the leaking cylinder from the vehicle and place in a safe, well-ventilated area. Consider notifying the emergency services. Ensure that the vehicle has been adequately ventilated before continuing with the journey. If the leak cannot be stopped, do not return a leaking cylinder onto the vehicle. If additional help is required, contact your gas supplier for advice.

Cylinders must be securely stowed, preferably in the luggage area. If the vehicle is involved in an accident the driver and any passengers could be injured by unsecured items being thrown around inside the vehicle. Gas cylinders should be removed at the end of each journey and it is advisable that they are not left in closed vehicles overnight. If the vehicle is left for short periods, then the cylinders should be kept out of sight as they, and their associated equipment are attractive to opportunist thieves. Drivers should ensure the valves are closed on all cylinders being transported. They should also check there are no leaks (using an approved leak detection solution or spray). If ancillary equipment is attached to the cylinders the system should be fully purged of gas (in a well-ventilated area) before the journey commences.

The emergency services attending an accident or incident should be advised that the vehicle is carrying dangerous goods (gas cylinders). 29

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