WorkSafe Tasmania

WorkSafe Tasmania

Safe and well every day

LP gas cylinders

Transporting gas cylinders

  • Do not carry a cylinder greater than 9kg in an enclosed vehicle.
  • Secure each cylinder upright in the vehicle, preferably in the boot, with a plug firmly fitted in the valve.
  • Do not smoke in the vehicle while transporting cylinders.
  • Do not leave the cylinder in the vehicle any longer than necessary. Remove it to a cool place as soon as you reach your destination.
  • If you smell gas, do not start the vehicle. The vehicle’s electrical system may ignite the gas.

Using gas cylinders and devices

  • Do not use a cylinder that has corrosion or damage.
  • Do not use a cylinder that is out of date. The test date, stamped on the base or neck of the cylinder, is valid for 10 years.
  • If you’re using the cylinder with a low-pressure gas device, use a regulator to control the pressure. Ask your gas supplier or the manufacturer to explain how.
  • When you’ve finished using the cylinder, make sure the regulator hose is empty of gas. Turn off the cylinder valve while the gas device is still operating, then turn off the gas device valve.

Storage and maintenance

  • Keep the cylinder away from heat and direct sunlight where practicable.
  • Check the valves are tightly turned off.
  • Carry and store the cylinder upright at all times.
  • Insert a valve plug in the cylinder when you’re not using it.
  • Check your cylinder and hose regularly for damage, malfunction and gas leaks (a ‘rotten egg’ gas smell).
  • Use an approved test station to repair or replace cylinder valves if needed.
  • Do not attempt to repair or remove cylinder valves yourself. Only a licensed gasfitter can do this.

Exchanges and refills

Your local gas retailer can safely refill or exchange your cylinder. Before you purchase a cylinder or accept an exchange cylinder:

  • check it is fitted with a valve plug
  • check the cylinder is in date. To be refilled, a cylinder must have a valid 10-year test stamp.

Do not refill your own gas cylinder. Only trained people using special equipment can do this safely.

Disposing of out-of-date cylinders

Do not throw your old gas bottle into general waste or regular metal recycling bins. This can cause a safety hazard for transport, tip and recycling workers.

The safest option is to take your old cylinder to your nearest LPG swap station, as suppliers have a process for making the cylinder safe for recycling.

Do not try to empty the cylinder yourself at home: LPG is heavier than air and will naturally flow into drains or low lying areas. This could be very dangerous.

Storage and use of gas at public events

Gas is frequently used at public events (festivals, sporting events, markets).

Event organisers and gas users are responsible for providing a safe environment. They should identify, assess and manage the potential risks.

Where practicable, LP gas should be stored and used in accordance with Section 2 of AS/NZS1596 The storage and handling of LP Gas – Minor Storage.

WorkSafe Tasmania resources

Bushfires

Other resources

Storing and using LPG at public events: Consumer, Building and Occupational Services, Tasmania

Last updated: 11 January 2024
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