Seven safety tips for preventing gas cylinder damage, explosion
A little caution goes a long way in preventing potential disasters. Incorporating safety measures into our daily lives can protect both lives and property.
Preventing gas cylinder damage and explosions is crucial for ensuring safety in environments that handle compressed gases, such as industrial settings, laboratories, hotels, restaurants, and even residential areas. Gas cylinders contain high-pressure gases, and if not properly maintained or handled, they can pose significant risks, including leaks, ruptures, or catastrophic explosions.
According to a former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas, Bassey Essien, expired and faulty cylinders, along with undetected leakages, are among the leading causes of gas cylinder explosions.
He explained that cylinders have expiry dates and a lifespan of 15 years, during which they should be maintained every five years.
“That maintenance is what we call re-qualification. You take it to a company with the facility to re-qualify it, and this should be done three times, every five years. At the end of the 15 years, it means the cylinder has exhausted its lifespan and should be taken out of circulation. When a cylinder expires, its strength reduces, and anything can happen to it afterwards,” he said.
Beyond expired cylinders, Essien also highlighted that leakages from the cylinder or its valve could lead to explosions. “If the cylinder is leaky, you change it, and if the valve is leaky, you change it before you refill,” he advised.
“When that small rubber in the valve weakens, it can cause leakage and trigger an explosion. Some gas plants even offer to replace it for free, which is why regular checks are essential. People can detect leaks by applying soapy water to the cylinder. If bubbles form anywhere, it indicates a leak that needs immediate attention. People should be aware of these risks, as they are common causes of explosions.”
The consequences of a cylinder explosion can be devastating, causing injuries, loss of life, and property damage. To mitigate these risks, it is essential to adhere to strict safety guidelines, including proper storage, regular inspection, correct usage, and the use of protective equipment.
Gas cylinders can pose severe safety risks with devastating consequences if safety precautions are not prioritised in households, laboratories, hospitals, restaurants, hotels, and other settings. Understanding how to prevent such explosions and respond to emergencies is crucial for anyone using liquefied petroleum gas.
By following these safety measures, you can effectively minimise the risk of explosions, ensuring a safer environment for all.
Avoid using fabricated cylinders
There is a standard metal for producing gas cylinders, but because it is expensive, many people attempt to bypass it. In Nigeria, some welders fabricate cylinders using low-quality metal plates, painting them to sell to unsuspecting buyers. Avoid such cylinders, as they cannot withstand the required pressure and may burst.
“People should either discard a damaged cylinder or consult certified welders from the Department of Petroleum Resources. These professionals are trained to handle welding for oil and gas products,” Essien added.
Avoid faulty connections and heat exposure
Faulty connections can lead to gas leakages, allowing gas to escape and build up in confined spaces.
Dropping, bumping, or tampering with cylinders can also damage the safety valve, leading to an uncontrolled gas release.
Additionally, storing cylinders near stoves, ovens, or direct sunlight can increase pressure dangerously.
Gas cylinders should be stored in a well-ventilated, dry, and cool area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or flammable materials.
Ensure cylinders are kept upright and securely fastened to prevent tipping.
Use compatible equipment
Always use the correct regulators, hoses, and fittings compatible with the specific type of gas in the cylinder. This ensures proper pressure regulation and reduces the risk of leaks or mishandling.
A former Director-General of the Standard Organisation of Nigeria, Dr Joseph Odumodu, stated, “There is a standard in Nigeria; NIS 587 specifies that every cylinder must go through a requalification every five years. That also provides for a 15-year life cycle.”
He, therefore, advised to ensure gas fittings are securely fixed and in good condition.
Desist from opening the gas flow before igniting the fire
The Chairman of the Safety and Technical Committee, Nigeria Liquefied and Compressed Gases Association, Felix Ekundayo, advised in an interview with PUNCH that users of burners without automatic ignition should avoid opening the gas flow before igniting the fire.
“Never open the flow of gas then light a spark,” he added.
This can result in an excess amount of fuel in the air, which may lead to an uncontrolled fire or, worse, an explosion,” he added.
Don’t over-pressurise your cylinders
Ekundayo also advised against over-pressurising a cylinder or attempting to exceed its rated pressure. According to him, “Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe operation and handling. It is wrong for anybody to want to overfill a cylinder.”
He pointed out that even when a cylinder is 6kg, one is not expected to fill up the space with 6kg or 6.5kg, stressing that it’s dangerous to do so.
For a 6kg gas cylinder, it is advisable to fill it with 5kg of gas or a maximum of 5.5kg,” said the Operations Manager at Solid Ventures, Apapa, Ken Balogun,.
Handling gas leakage at home
If you suspect a leak, immediately turn off the cylinder valve and open windows for ventilation. Never switch on your lights.
“Before turning on your electrical appliances, perform a quick sniff test around the cylinder and connections. A gas odour indicates leakage. Do not turn on switches, lighters, matches, or cigarettes. Switching on your lights or lighting a lighter can lead to fire and explosion. Always turn off the gas supply at the cylinder valve when not in use, even for short periods,” a leading LPG Company, SuperGas advised on its website.
Avoid using electrical appliances near cylinders
Avoid using electrical appliances or open flames near the cylinder when changing connections or checking for leaks.
People are often advised not to make calls in the kitchen while cooking on a gas stove for their safety.
Tech experts have warned that such actions could trigger a fire, potentially leading to an explosion if the flames cannot be controlled.
