LP Tank Safety

MAKE-IT-SAFE MONDAY

Propane is a highly combustible gas that when compressed will turn into an easily transportable liquid. You will typically encounter propane tanks in the home as fuel sources in barbecues and portable stoves. As an industrial fuel source you will see propane used in a variety of applications including blowtorches, feed stock production, forklifts, and as automobile fuel. Safely handling and storing of propane cylinders is a major safety issue that is often overlooked by residential consumers as well as industrial users.

Here are tips to ensure that your home and business are using essential propane safety practices:

Never store propane cylinders indoors, in a house, or garage. Leaking gas will accumulate near the floor until an ignition source is reached such as the pilot light on a furnace or water heater.  

Never store propane cylinders in close proximity to other flammable or combustible materials.

Propane should not be stored on wet or soggy ground. Prolonged exposure to wet conditions can cause the tanks to rust and potentially leak. 

Cylinders should always be positioned so the relief valve is in contact with the vapor space inside the tank. The compressed liquid will always settle to the bottom of the tank which is more dangerous than the gas vapors. All consumer tanks should remain vertical. Tanks with relief valves should be rotated so the relief valve is near the top of the tank when it is placed on its side.

Do not, under any circumstances, try to modify or repair valves, regulators, or other appliance parts.

Propane leaks smell like rotten eggs. If you smell a leak, evacuate the premises, and contact your local fire department, or propane supplier. When leaving the premises, do not alter any electrical outlets or light switches.

Use team-lifts or lifting equipment for the transportation of LP cylinders. Propane tanks can get heavy, especially when full. Never roll a tank on its side to transport it from one point to another. Always use team-lifts, hand trucks, a Lift’n Buddy or a forklift for moving larger LP tanks.

Thank you for your time and attention.  Let’s make it safe this Monday.

Brad Lindemann
Sales Coordinator, Lift’n Buddy, a Southworth Company