Using Propane Safely e-learning reference material

Guide Book Series

The Working Environment

Fundamentals The environment we work in

Gas density relative to air One of the most important properties of a gas is its density relative to air. The density of air is 1. So if the density of a gas is lower than air (i.e. 0.6) the gas will rise, if it’s higher (i.e. 1.5) it will fall.

Gas

Density relative to air

You are surrounded by a gas called air that has three main components; nitrogen, oxygen and argon.

Hydrogen

0.07 0.14

Helium

Acetylene Nitrogen

0.9

Lighter than air

0.97

Air

1

Argon

1.38

Propane

1.5 1.5

Heavier than air

Propylene

The density dictates whether a gas will rise or fall if it leaks into, or is released into the working environment. All gases that are lighter than air will tend to move to the highest point in any enclosed space and will collect there unless there is ventilation at high levels. Gases that are heavier than air such as propane and butane will collect in low lying areas and should not be stored or used near to drains, ducts, trenches or inspection pits.

20.93%

0.93%

0.11%

78.03%

Nitrogen

Oxygen

Argon

Carbon Dioxide Neon Helium Krypton Hydrogen Xenon

Operators may work with a variety of different gases. Each gas has its own characteristics which affect:

{ { The way the human body reacts to a gas

{ { The gas’s behaviour in the working environment

When handling and using gases operators should always have access to the corresponding Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for each of the gases being stored, handled, transported or used. The SDS provides essential information on the properties, hazards associated with the gas, first aid, fire fighting measures, handling and storage as well as other facts. Safety Data Sheets are freely available from your gas supplier. You can also download them from the web.

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