Safe Storage of LPG Gas Bottles

Safe Storage of LPG Gas Bottles

Purpose

LPG gas cylinders are commonly used within Scouting to support outdoor cooking activities, camps, fundraising BBQs and other approved program activities. While LPG is a safe and reliable fuel when used correctly, it is also a highly flammable gas and must be stored, handled and maintained appropriately.
This article provides guidance for Scout Groups, Districts, Activity Centres and Campsites on the safe storage and management of LPG cylinders.

Why LPG Storage Matters

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) is stored under pressure and is heavier than air. In the event of a leak, gas can accumulate in low-lying areas, creating a significant fire or explosion risk if an ignition source is present.
Improper storage of gas cylinders has the potential to result in:
  1. Fire or explosion.
  2. Damage to property and equipment.
  3. Serious injury to members, volunteers and visitors.
  4. Breaches of workplace health and safety obligations.
For these reasons, all LPG cylinders must be managed in accordance with Australian Standards and good industry practice.

Legislative and Regulatory Requirements

The storage and handling of LPG in Australia is governed by:
  1. AS/NZS 1596 – The Storage and Handling of LP Gas
  2. Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Qld)
  3. Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Qld)
Scout Groups and facilities must ensure LPG cylinders are stored and handled in a manner that eliminates or minimises risks so far as is reasonably practicable.

Storage Requirements

LPG Cylinders Must Be Stored Outdoors

LPG cylinders should always be stored:
  1. In an external, well-ventilated location.
  2. In an upright position.
  3. With the cylinder valve fully closed when not connected for use.
  4. Secured to prevent falling, rolling or impact damage.
  5. On a stable surface with good drainage.
  6. Away from vehicle traffic and other activities that may damage the cylinder.

LPG Cylinders Must Not Be Stored Inside Scout Dens

Gas cylinders must not be routinely stored inside:
  1. Scout Dens.
  2. Storage rooms.
  3. Activity halls.
  4. Meeting rooms.
  5. Shipping containers.
  6. Sheds or enclosed structures without compliant ventilation.
Although limited quantities may be permitted under specific provisions of AS/NZS 1596, Scouts Queensland requires LPG cylinders to be stored externally wherever reasonably practicable. This significantly reduces the risk of gas accumulation should a leak occur.

Keep Cylinders Away from Ignition Sources

LPG cylinders must not be stored near:
  1. Electrical switchboards.
  2. Power points.
  3. Air-conditioning units.
  4. Compressors and pumps.
  5. Open flames.
  6. Smoking areas.
  7. Hot water systems or other heat sources.
A clearance from ignition sources must always be maintained.

Avoid Low-Lying Areas

Because LPG is heavier than air, cylinders should not be stored:
  1. Adjacent to drains.
  2. Near pits or trenches.
  3. Under buildings.
  4. Under stairwells.
  5. In enclosed alcoves where leaked gas may accumulate.

Inventory Management

Keep Only What You Need

Groups should minimise LPG storage to the quantity reasonably required to support planned Scouting activities.
Good practice includes:
  1. Holding only the number of cylinders required for upcoming activities.
  2. Returning or exchanging empty cylinders promptly.
  3. Avoiding the accumulation of unused or redundant cylinders.
  4. Reviewing stored cylinders annually.
Alert
Excessive storage increases risk and creates unnecessary inspection and maintenance obligations.

Inspection and Maintenance

Regular Visual Inspections

Before each use, and at least quarterly, volunteers should inspect cylinders for:
  1. Rust or corrosion.
  2. Dents or impact damage.
  3. Damaged valves.
  4. Missing safety collars or foot rings.
  5. Evidence of gas leakage.
  6. Damaged hoses or regulators.
Warning
Any cylinder showing signs of damage must be removed from service immediately and returned to the supplier for assessment.

Leak Testing

Whenever a regulator is connected to a cylinder:
  1. Perform a leak test using soapy water.
  2. Never use a naked flame to check for leaks.
If bubbles appear, disconnect the cylinder and arrange replacement.

Cylinder Test Dates

LPG cylinders require periodic testing and certification.
As a guide, cylinders should be inspected to ensure they remain within their approved test period. Cylinders generally require re-testing or replacement every 10 years.
Volunteers should:
  1. Check the stamped test date on the cylinder.
  2. Remove overdue cylinders from service.
  3. Exchange expired cylinders through an approved supplier.

Transporting Cylinders

When transporting LPG cylinders:
  1. Always transport upright where practical.
  2. Secure cylinders against movement.
  3. Ensure valves are fully closed.
  4. Do not leave cylinders in vehicles longer than necessary.
  5. Ensure adequate vehicle ventilation.

Key Safety Messages

✓ Store LPG cylinders outdoors in a well-ventilated location.
✓ Never store gas cylinders inside Scout Dens or other occupied buildings.
✓ Keep cylinders upright, secured and protected from damage.
✓ Keep cylinders away from ignition sources, drains and enclosed spaces.
✓ Check cylinders regularly for damage, corrosion and expired test dates.
✓ Minimise the number of cylinders held on site to what is required for Scouting activities.
✓ Treat all cylinders as though they contain gas, even when believed to be empty.

Idea
Safe LPG management is a simple but important part of maintaining a safe Scouting environment for all members and visitors.


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