LP gas cylinder testing | Resources Safety & Health Queensland
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Petroleum and gas safety alert no. 90 | 30 June 2019 | Version 1

LP gas cylinder testing

What happened?

Testing commissioned by the Petroleum and Gas inspectorate in February 2019 program identified several safety issues with the valves on 4 and 9 kg LP gas cylinders.

Key issues

The report conducted by a National Association of Testing Authorities ( NATA) certified Laboratory identified:

  • One of the four cylinders in the tested sample failed the cyclic endurance test (opening and closing) on the cylinder valve.
  • One of the four cylinders in the tested sample failed during the closing torque test.(closing force)
  • Three of the four cylinders valves in the tested sample failed during the opening torque test (opening force)
  • There were instances where, after applying torque, the valve no longer operated, the valve could not be fully closed or the handle operated freely in the opening direction.
  • One of the four cylinders valve spindle in the tested sample sheared and the valve could not be operated.

Recommendations

The Petroleum and Gas inspectorate recommend that LP Gas cylinder users consider the following actions:

  • Insert a POL (Prest-O-Lite) valve plug in the cylinder when you aren’t using it. (see Figure 3)
  • Conduct a leakage test using a soapy water solution on the LP Gas cylinder valve when it is connected to a gas device and when it is in use and after use. ( link to LP gas cylinder safety videos in reference section)
  • Check your cylinder regularly for damage, malfunction and gas leaks (a ‘rotten egg’ gas smell).
  • Do not attempt to repair or remove cylinder valves yourself
  • Return faulty cylinders to your nearest LP Gas dealer
  • Use an approved test station to repair or replace cylinder valves if needed.

Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available. The information in this publication is what is known at the time of writing.

We issue Safety Notices to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious incident, raise awareness of risks, and prompt assessment of your existing controls.

References and further information

  • LP Gas Cylinder Alert No 30 17 August 2007
  • https://www.qld.gov.au/emergency/safety/home/gas/gas-safety-videos

Authorised by Bill Date - Chief Inspector

Contact: Tony O'Connor, Principal Inspector , +61 7 07 4447 9271

Issued by Queensland Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy

Safety: This information is a guide only and is issued to promote safety through experience. It is not to be taken as a statement of law and must not be construed to waive or modify any legal obligation.

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