BHETA has welcomed Liquid Gas UK’s publication of Guidance Sheet 40 (GS40), which offers updated guidance on the correct storage, marking, transportation and disposal of non-refillable LPG cylinders.
While non-refillable LPG cylinders have been on the market for many years, there has been some confusion over the required marking, storage, transportation and disposal of these products. Given their flammable nature, it is vital that the entire supply chain comes together to make sure every product on the market is handled safely at all times.
When combined with oxygen, LPG can create a flammable vapour and, potentially, an explosive atmosphere, which is why regulations exist to ensure they are handled, stored and transported safely, minimising risk throughout the supply chain.
GS40 sets out these requirements, clarifying the legal responsibilities that the entire supply chain must comply with, including importers, suppliers, wholesalers, distributors, retailers and merchants. It also explains the difference in construction standards between LPG cylinders designed for soldering, brazing and general plumbing work, and the LPG canisters and cartridges used with portable cooking appliances.
This type of LPG cylinder must be non-refillable and constructed in accordance with ISO 11118 including having a non-refillable sealing device. For shipping, they must also be marked (when applicable) with UN 1077 (propylene), or UN 1978 (propane). Each cylinder must also be supplied with a data sheet to ensure customers fully understand the required safety procedures. LPG canisters and cartridges, meanwhile, are manufactured to EN 417 standard and marked with UN 2037.
There are specific storage and separation distances for retail premises and indoor storage and for larger quantities of storage of gas indoors, where Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) may apply. Any business storing gas cylinders indoors should read and understand the LGUK Codes of Practice or consult with a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor to assess their specific requirements.
UN 1077 and UN 1978 cylinders are classified as LQ0 products for transportation, which means the whole supply chain must comply with ADR regulations – the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road. Either full or partial ADR compliance is required, depending on the amount of LPG being carried. To carry >333kg, full ADR applies including drivers must hold an ADR driver training certificate. If carrying <333kg, partial ADR applies including drivers must have received relevant ADR awareness training. As well as this, cylinders should be transported in open or ventilated vehicles with the appropriate ADR warning placards; if this is not possible, the doors must be marked with a suitable warning label.
ADR regulations do include a Derogation to allow retailers with their own distribution centres to distribute cylinders via their own fleets if they are delivering from distribution centres to retail and then on to end users (and vice versa), but they must still comply with ADR requirements.
BHETA COO Will Jones said: “It’s great news that LGUK has pulled all these rules and regulations together into one Guidance Sheet. While the HSW 1974, DSEAR 2002, and ADR 1996 rules and regulations have always been in place, there has been seemingly a lack of cohesion across the market. Ultimately, it is in the interest of the market to be safe, compliant and consistent in its approach. This will create a fair trading arena and one where the correct information is being disseminated throughout all parts of the supply chain.”
View the GS40 document at www.liquidgasuk.org
view the GS40 document