Accidents with gas cylinders are usually the result of misuse and can have severe consequences. Gas is invisible, highly flammable and can cause an explosion. Therefore, it is important that you are always aware and careful when handling gas cylinders. On this page, you will find more information and tips on the safe use of gas cylinders at home and outdoors.
Keep away from open fires!
Never come close to a gas cylinders with a flame or burning cigarette or cigar. Gas is invisible and highly flammable. If a gas cylinder leaks, contact with open flames can lead to a life-threatening situation.
Types of gas cylinders
There are different types of gas cylinders available. Larger gas cylinders (100lbs) are mainly used at home or for commercial purposes. In addition, there are also smaller mobile gas cylinders (20, 32 or 40lbs) which are suitable for recreational use, e.g. for a BBQ. When using large gas cylinders, different rules apply for connecting, transporting and storing than for small mobile gas cylinders.
Storage or keeping of gas cylinders
Gas cylinders are under high pressure and must therefore be stored with care. Thus, please pay attention to the following points:
Store and transport gas cylinders in an upright position. Secure the cylinder to a wall with a strap or chain to prevent it from falling over.
Always store gas cylinders outside the house in a cool, well-ventilated place. Avoid placing the cylinder in direct sunlight, so place it in a well-ventilated shed or outside in the shade.
Do not place cylinders near electric motors (minimum distance: 1.5 m).
Keep cylinders as far away as possible from your cooker or oven (minimum distance: 3M).
Connecting gas cylinders
Large gas cylinders should be connected by a specialist. However, it is important that you regularly check the connection and the gas installation yourself.
Check regularly that the connections are still in good order. Trace leaks with a brush of liquid detergent.
Have your gas installation checked every five years by an authorised professional.
You can connect smaller gas cylinders yourself, but please note the following points:
Ensure that gas cylinders are connected with an approved hose and according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Only use approved high-pressure hoses with a maximum length of 1.5 metres. Renew the hoses at least every two years.
Always use a pressure reducer between the cylinder and the gas device. The required gas pressure is indicated on the type plate of the unit.
When connecting gas cylinders, install the regulator that allows the highest pressure to pass closest to the appliance.
Ensure that the connections on both sides are fitted with suitable hose clips.
Use of gas cylinders
When using gas cylinders, the rules and tips you will find under the heading ‘Storage or keeping of gas cylinders’ also apply. Please take note of the following points as well:
Never fill gas cylinders with LPG. If you repeatedly "overfill" with LPG, the gas cylinder can explode. This is life-threatening.
Close the cylinder valve when you are not using the gas appliance. Do not use tools to open and close the valves; do it by hand.
Leave the filling of gas cylinders to recognised filling stations.
Never place a gas cylinder loose at a BBQ, but always shield it with sufficient ventilation openings. This can be a compartment or for example a cardboard screen.
Call in professionals if the connection fails according to the instructions. Above all, do not experiment.
Close the gas cock and cylinder valves when you are on holiday.
Do not try to repair damaged hoses, always replace them.
Fire extinguishers
In situations where fire can start, it is always wise to have the right fire extinguishers at hand. More information about fire extinguishers at home can be found here.
