Hazard Alert - Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) Barbeque Safety

Safety and Health are aware that a number of Faculties, Schools and Student Groups at UWA have purchased their own barbeques and liquid petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders. Most fires involving barbeques are due to leaking gas bottles, faulty connections or a build up of grease and fat (NSW Fire Brigades http://www.nswfb.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=763). The storage of these barbeques and LPG cylinders within buildings could pose a threat to the safety and health of the occupants. Potential problems could arise with the security of the cylinder, potential explosive atmosphere from escaping gas and the specific storage location of the cylinder in cases of emergency situations. LPG is heaver than air and if there is a leak in any gas couplings, fittings or hoses the gas will tend to collect in low points and may remain in an area for some time creating a potential fire or explosive situation.  Australian Standard 1596-2002 S2.3 states that ‘The use and storage of cylinders of LP Gas indoors, whether full or nominally empty, should be avoided wherever practicable’.

It is important to make sure that the barbeque is serviced and maintained correctly and that the condition of all hoses and connections is checked before each use. The barbeque should be clean before use, do not leave food cooking unattended and do not put the barbeque close to combustible materials. For gas barbeques a garden hose or other continuous supply of water nearby should be available. The following are standard safety considerations when using LPG barbeques:
• LPG cylinder is required to be re-tested every 10 years. Do not use cylinders beyond the date stamped on the cylinder.
• Check gas cylinders for rust or damage and ensure connections are correctly tightened on the barbeque before lighting. Spray soapy water on suspect connections, bubbles will form if gas is escaping. If in doubt, turn off the gas and have a licensed gas fitter attend to the hose or connection.
• Make sure the barbeque is on a firm, level base, sheltered from wind gusts and well away from anything flammable.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the correct start up and shut down procedures, do not connect or disconnect cylinders in the vicinity of a naked flame and shut of the cylinder valve before disconnecting the bottle from the BBQ.
• Only use a barbeque in a well-ventilated area because fumes and gases emitted may be harmful. These barbeques are not intended for indoor use.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies.
• If a gas leak occurs, shut off the cylinder immediately to allow any gas to dissipate.
• After the cooking is finished make sure the gas is turned off at the cylinder.
• Cylinders should be carried and stored upright at all times.
• Cylinders should be stored outside in an adequately ventilated area.
• House the cylinder in a secure location and provide protection against falling, damage and excessive temperature rise.
• Provide separate storage for LPG away from any oxidizing gases by at least 3m. Do not store or use petrol, flammable liquids or aerosols near LPG cylinders.
• Do not store the cylinder in close proximity to an ignition source, or in locations that could jeopardize escape from the building in the event of fire (under no circumstances in stairwells).
• Keep children away from the barbeque and remove and secure lighters and matches.
• Use alcohol responsibly around barbeques.
If you detect a strong smell of gas, call Security on 2222.
 
References:
 Australian Standard 1596-2002
DOCEP Energy Safety: Safe locations for using gas barbecues. http://www.docep.wa.gov.au/EnergySafety/PDF/Publications/Safety_Gas_Barbecues.pdf
DOCEP Energy Safety: Using LP Gas safely. http://www.docep.wa.gov.au/EnergySafety/PDF/Publications/safety_gas_lpg.pdf
NSW Fire Brigades: General Barbeque Safety http://www.nswfb.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=763

The storage and housing of LPG in Western Australia is controlled by the Energy Safety (DOCEP) with references to Australian Standards 1596-2002 & AS 5601-2002.