Important Propane Safety Information
Posted by Grange Co-op on 1st Mar 2016
Important Propane Safety Information for users of small cylinders
Please read and follow the safety rules in this post. Share this information with your family to help keep everyone safe and to reduce the risk of serious and potentially fatal injury, fire, or explosion.
Refilling small cylinders
MAKE SURE YOUR CYLINDER IS EQUIPPED WITH AN OVERFILL PREVENTION DEVICE (OPD).
An OPD is a safety feature that helps prevent small propane cylinders from being overfilled. An overfilled cylinder doesn’t have enough space left if the liquid expands when exposed to warmer temperatures. This can cause an increase in cylinder pressure and create potentially hazardous conditions.
Most cylinders with OPDs have special triangular handwheels with the letters “OPD” on them. In many states, cylinders without OPDs cannot be refilled. If you are uncertain as to whether your cylinder has an OPD valve on it, ask your propane retailer.
OLD OR DAMAGED CYLINDERS
NEVER use a damaged cylinder or a cylinder that has been in a fire. All cylinders must be inspected before they are refilled. The law requires periodic inspection of cylinders, and it is against the law to refill out-of-date cylinders. The last inspection date is stamped on the cylinder.
DISPOSAL OF CYLINDERS
NEVER dispose of your propane cylinder by throwing it in the trash. Check to see if there are municipal programs for collection in your area, or contact your propane retailer for guidance on disposal of the cylinder.
If you smell gas
- Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames.
- If you are able to, safely turn off the cylinder valve. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).
- Immediately leave the area and call 911 or your local fire department.
- Before you restart the appliance, have a qualified service technician inspect your cylinder and appliance.
Take the sniff test
Propane has a strong, unpleasant smell like rotten eggs, a skunk’s spray, or a dead animal. Propane manufacturers add the smell deliberately to help alert customers to propane leaks, which can create a safety hazard. Teach everyone in your home or building what propane smells like. You may be able to ask your propane retailer for a demonstration. Always take action if you smell any kind of foul odor. For more information, please visit: www.usepropane.com