Flammable & LPG Gas Handling

The SOP for Flammable & LPG Gas Handling outlines the safety protocols and procedures to manage the hazards associated with flammable gases, such as cylinder ruptures, leaks, and fire risks. It is crucial for workers involved in gas handling and storage to adhere to these guidelines to prevent fatalities and injuries. This document ensures compliance with relevant legislation and provides comprehensive safety measures to maintain a safe working environment.

• Cylinder rupture or BLEVE (Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion) from heat exposure → fatality
• Flashback from torch into hose or regulator → cylinder explosion
• Fire or explosion from leaking gas reaching an ignition source → fatality, structural damage
• Asphyxiation in confined spaces from leaking LPG (heavier than air, settles in pits) → fatality
• Crush injury from a falling unrestrained cylinder
• Frost burns from contact with rapidly expanding LPG liquid
• Static-electricity ignition during decanting or filling
• Oxygen-enriched atmosphere from oxygen leaks intensifying combustion of clothing

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and applicable state/territory WHS legislation
• Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Cth) — Chapter 7 Hazardous Chemicals; Part 7.1
• Australian Dangerous Goods Code (ADG Code 7.x) — for cylinder transport
• AS 1596 — The storage and handling of LP Gas
• AS 4332 — The storage and handling of gases in cylinders
• AS 2030 series — Gas cylinders
• AS 4839 — The safe use of portable and mobile oxy-fuel gas systems for welding, cutting, heating and allied processes
• AS/NZS 1716 — Respiratory protective devices
• AS/NZS 1338.1 — Filters for eye protectors — Filters for protection against radiation generated in welding and allied operations
• Safe Work Australia — Code of Practice: Welding Processes
• Safe Work Australia — Guidance on Working with Compressed Gases
• Hot Work Permit and Cylinder Inspection Log (associated documents)