As with any energy product (gasoline, natural gas, electricity, fuel oil, wood, etc.) it is important to respect, understand, and know how to safely use propane, your propane system, and appliances. The following provides information regarding; "What Propane Is," proper and periodic maintenance of your propane system, who should perform the maintenance on your system, detecting a leak, emergency procedures to follow if you suspect or have an actual leak, testing for leaks, the "benefits" of not "running out of gas," how to connect and transport cylinders, etc.

Please take the time to become familiar with this information. Once you have reviewed this information, share it with all members of your family. By better understanding propane, how to use your propane system, and what to do if you have or suspect a leak, you will have the knowledge to comfortably and safely enjoy the benefits of propane.

Thank you for taking the time to review this report, which will enable you to have a better understanding of your propane system. If you have any questions or concerns about Propane, contact us.

Propane is a liquid stored under pressure in tanks and cylinders. In most systems, propane is vaporized to a gas before it leaves the tank or cylinder and then is dispensed through a pressure regulator to your appliance.

In its natural state, propane is an odorless, colorless gas. A chemical odorant is added to propane to give it a distinctive smell so the presence of propane can be detected. Propane is a convenient, versatile, and economical fuel for vehicles and appliances (such as ranges, water heaters, and furnaces).

Propane vapor disperses readily, as do all gases. The movement of propane vapor, which is heavier than air, can be influenced by such factors as air currents, relative temperatures, and air flow rates. Propane vapor should be treated with the same caution as is applied to other flammable gases.

• Propane is heavier than air and may collect initially near the floor or ground.
  
• Always look, listen and smell for propane before attempting to light appliances.
  
• Severe freeze burns or frostbite can result if propane liquid comes in contact with your skin.
  
• Propane may cause suffocation, flash fires, or explosions if gathered in high concentrations.
  
• Propane gas detectors can increase the likelihood of detecting a propane leak. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for proper placement of propane gas detectors.

LEAKS AND THE SMELL OF GAS
Always be sensitive to the slightest gas smell. Learn to recognize the odor of propane gas. To become familiar with the smell of propane, call us for a Scratch-And-Sniff brochure, and ask to smell the propane when we fill your tank.

Warning Signs
Below are some warning signs of a gas leak. If you smell propane, no matter how strong or weak the smell, treat it as a serious gas leak.

NOTE: If there is a gas leak, follow the Emergency Procedure located at the end of this report, which should be placed on or near your propane appliance.

Examples of warning signs which may indicate a gas leak has occurred are:

• When the smell of gas lasts more than an instant after igniting
stove-top burners.

• When the presence of a foul odor persists.

• When you cannot find the reason for the foul odor.

• What you think may be garbage, sewage, or a dead animal may
be a serious gas leak.

• When you hear a hissing noise near a gas appliance, piping, or storage tanks and cylinders.

Odor Fade

NOTE:
Under rare conditions, the chemical odorant (usually ethylmercaptan) that gives propane its distinctive smell can "fade" or diminish in intensity.
On rare occasions, a leak can exist and the gas may not have an odor.

• Odor fade can occur when there is an underground propane leak. The movement of gas through the soil can filter out the odorant.

• Oxidation (a chemical reaction involving internal rust in the tank or cylinder) also causes odor fade. New and reconditioned tanks and cylinders that sit too long before being filled are prone to internal rust when moisture and air get inside.

Adsorption is another cause of odor fade. The odorant in leaking gas can adsorb (stick) on new or old building materials such as unpainted or untreated masonry, rough wall surfaces and on furniture fabrics and drapes, thus reducing the intensity of the odor. Adsorption of odorant can also occur on the inside walls of gas piping and static or periodically used propane storage containers and distribution systems.

Other Reasons Why You May Not Smell A Leak

In addition to odor fade, physical conditions may prevent you from smelling a leak.

Some physical causes are listed below:

• colds, allergies, or sinus congestion;

• use of tobacco, alcohol, or drugs;

• cooking odors and certain foods you eat;

• taking certain medications;

• decline in ability to smell, especially for older people;

• prolonged exposure to the odor of propane; and

• musty or damp smells, such as in a basement.

• The smell from a propane leak may not wake you when sleeping.

If you are concerned that you may not be able to smell a propane leak, contact your family doctor.

Note: As an added precaution avoid relying solely on your sense of smell by installing propane gas detectors.

TESTING FOR GAS LEAKS
All propane leaks are dangerous. Follow the Emergency Procedure found at the end of this report, which should be placed on or near your propane appliance.

If you suspect a leak, go to a neighbor's phone and call us to check your system for leaks. Your Brick Propane Service Representative is a trained professional.

There are three ways to test for a gas leak:

- the sniff test,

- the bubble test, and

- propane gas detectors.

NOTE: As an added precaution, avoid relying solely on your sense of smell by installing propane gas detectors.

Sniff Test
Being heavier than air, leaking propane tends to collect initially in low areas. To check whether there is a leak using the sniff test, get down on your hands and knees and sniff close to the floor to smell for propane. If you smell propane, do NOT light a match. Follow the Emergency Procedure at the end of this report, which should be placed on or near your propane appliance.

Bubble Test
(This test should be performed by your trained propane service person.)

The bubble test enables you to check for leaks by applying a leak detector solution, or thick soapy water, on all connections. The leak detector solution can be obtained from Brick Propane. Perform this test when installing and filling tanks or cylinders and any time you suspect a leak.

Apply leak detector solution, or thick soapy water, to the connections between the cylinder valve and regulator outlet and/or any other connections you suspect may be leaking.

Slowly open the tank or cylinder valve and watch for bubbles.
If bubbles appear, close the tank or cylinder valve and tighten connections immediately (but do not over tighten).

Repeat steps 1 through 3 until the bubbles stop. If you cannot stop the bubbles, contact Brick Propane for service.

NOTE: Some people believe that the smell of propane gas is a signal that their tank is nearly empty and should be refilled. When a tank is low you may get a momentary whiff of gassy smell when burners are ignited. However, if the smell of gas odor continues, you may have a serious propane gas leak. Any persistent gassy smell is your signal to follow the Emergency Procedure found at the end of this report, which should be placed on or near your propane appliance.

Propane Gas Detectors
The National Fire Protection Association and federal and state agencies responsible for regulating propane safety acknowledge that odorants added to propane do not provide 100% effective leak detection; on rare occasions a leak may not be detected by smell. Gas detectors, listed by the Underwriter Laboratories (UL) and others, can be used as an extra measure of safety for detecting leaks. Detectors that sound a loud alarm are now on the market at a reasonable price. In the event that a leak occurs while you are asleep, the alarm may assist you in becoming aware of the leak.

BEWARE: Gas detectors are only an aid. YOU must always be responsible for ensuring your safety. If you smell any gas at all, you should follow the Emergency Procedure found at the end of this report, which should be placed on or near your propane appliance, even if your gas detector is not sounding an alarm.

Installing Propane Gas Detectors
Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions when installing gas detectors. Brick Propane will provide the name of a manufacturer upon request.

• Do thoroughly ventilate basements or closed-up houses before lighting pilots or working on propane appliances. Simply opening doors and windows for a few minutes may not be sufficient. There must be a positive cross ventilation air flow.
  
• Do remain especially alert for the odor of propane when you are working near or with a propane appliance. Remember to sniff at floor level prior to and while lighting pilots, performing service, or making any adjustments.
  
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for lighting pilots.

• Do NOT smoke or have any source of ignition (such as flames or spark producing materials) in the area.
  
• Do NOT have extra or unnecessary people (particularly children) in an area when lighting a pilot or checking, repairing or adjusting any sort ofpropane appliance, equipment, piping, cylinder, or tank.
  
• Do NOT light pilot lights, perform service, or make adjustments in an area where other odors make it difficult for you to detect the smell of a propane leak, such as in a musty basement or closed up house.
  
• Do NOT light the appliances or their pilots as long as a musty or damp smell persists.
  
• Do NOT force or use tools on the pilot light or its control. If a knob or button on a gas control valve does not operate easily by hand, then it may be damaged and may need to be replaced immediately. Never oil a sticky knob or button on a gas control. The oil may cause the control valve mechanism to stick and malfunction.

DON’T RISK IT!! CALL YOUR PROPANE DEALER.

CAUTION: As stated in previous caution statement: It is strongly recommended that a trained professional relight your pilot lights or perform any service.

Back To Top

Portable Propane Cylinders

Improper use and handling of portable propane cylinders can be very dangerous. This section describes the precautions you should take when working with cylinders.

NOTE. There are special rules that apply to cylinders. The rules are explained below.

Shown below are illustrations of various types of portable propane cylinders:

WARNING: Do not smoke or have any ignition source, such as flames or spark-producing electrical tools, in the area while handling or transporting cylinders.

USING CYLINDERS

Check and make sure that cylinders:

• are not used or stored indoors or in an enclosed area.
  
• have the shut-off valve firmly closed when the appliance is not in use.
  
• are not next to a stove or a fireplace, in a hot vehicle, or near any other heat sources. The heat builds up pressure inside the cylinder, and may cause the pressure relief valve to release propane.
  
• are in a secure upright position when they are transported, stored, or used.
  
• are always used with a regulator.

New And Reinstalled Cylinders
When disconnecting cylinders, whether full or empty, first close the shut-off valve, then disconnect the cylinder and snugly seal the valve with a plug, a cap, or an approved quick-closing coupling. This important safety precaution prevents air and moisture from forming rust inside the cylinder.

Internal rust can develop in new and unused cylinders, which may lead to odor fade. A sniff test should be done to make sure odorant is in the cylinder when connected or reconnected.

Regulator
NEVER USE PROPANE FROM A CYLIN­DER WITHOUT A REGULATOR (Except for forklift cylinders). Protect the regulator connector from scratches and dents. Any damage to the connector may cause a leaking joint. Make sure the regulator vent is pointed downward and the regulator is protected. This prevents ice from blocking the vent. Ensure the regulator vent is clean. Check that nothing has blocked the vent, such as an insect, mud-dauber, wasp nests, spider cocoons, etc..

Shut-Oft Valve
Cylinders are equipped with a shut-off valve. When portable appliances are not being used, the valve should be shut off.

Storage
Store propane cylinders outside only. Never store cylinders in an enclosed area or a basement. Always use the cylinders in a secure manner to prevent rolling or falling.

Leaks
Always be alert for the smell of propane when you are in an area where cylinders are used or stored.

Heat
Never place a cylinder near a stove, fire­place, or other heat source. The heat builds up pressure inside the cylinder, which may cause the pressure relief valve to release propane.

WARNING: Flash fires or explosions can result from exposing cylinders to heat.

REFUELING CYLINDERS

Weight Limit
Cylinders should not be filled past their rated capacity. The weight limit is usually specified on the cylinder. If it has been overfilled, the pressure relief valve may release propane as the cylinder warms. Overfilling can lead to flash fires and explosions.

Rusted, Damaged, And Out-Of-Date Cylinders
It is against the law to have visibly rusted, damaged, and out-of-date cylinders filled. The date should be on the cylinder. Check with Brick Propane for questions about cylinder condition.

Overfilling Prevention Device (OPD)
Requirement
All new, vapor-service cylinders having a propane capacity of 4 pounds through 40 pounds and fabricated after 09/30/98, must be equipped with UL listed OPDs as a secondary means of protecting against overfilling (the primary means is to determine the fill limit by weight).


Effective 10/01/98, affected used cylinders must be retrofitted with UL listed OPDs when being requalified under DOT regulations.

Effective April 1, 2002, affected cylinders cannot be filled unless they are equipped with UL listed OPDs.

Cylinders equipped with UL listed OPDs will have a triple-notched valve handwheel with the letters “OPD” clearly and permanently marked on it.

Please refer to NFPA 58 (latest edition) for detailed information on Overfllling Prevention Devices.

Gas-Outs
Never let a cylinder become empty or nearly empty. Always leave a small amount of gas pressure to prevent gas-outs.

Disposable Containers
Never refill small disposable propane containers, such as those used to fuel camp stoves or propane torches.

CONNECTING CYLINDERS

CAUTION: Before connecting cylinders, read all the appliance instructions and the warning label on the cylinder.

Positioning The Cylinder
Position the cylinder in an upright position. Do not kink or damage any hose or tubing between the cylinder valve and the regulator.

Installing The Regulator
Install the regulator with the vent pointing downward and under a protective covering.

Using a wrench, on cylinders over 40 pounds capacity, tighten the regulator inlet connection nut counter-clockwise into the cylinder valve. The nut has a left-hand (reverse) thread, which requires you to tight­en it in the counter-clockwise direction. Do not over-tighten.

Checking For Leaks
To check for leaks, perform a bubble test. Apply leak detector solution or thick soapy water to the connection(s) between the cylinder valve and the regulator outlet.

Slowly open the cylinder shut-off valve and watch for bubbles. If bubbles appear, close the cylinder valve and tighten the connection and call Brick Propane immediately.

DISCONNECTING CYLINDERS

CAUTION: Before disconnecting cylinders, read all the appliance instructions and the warning label on the cylinder.

Before disconnecting a cylinder, close the shutoff valve on the cylinder and turn off all pilot lights and burners to appliances. Then disconnect the cylinder and install the plug, cap, or approved quick disconnect coupling cap. This prevents moisture and air from forming rust in the cylinder.

TRANSPORTING CYLINDERS

Transportation And Storage

• Always transport and store cylinders in a secure and upright position so they will not fall or roll.
  
• Never transport in the passenger compartment of any vehicle.
  
• Never transport without closing and sealing the valve.

Heat
Never keep a filled cylinder inside a hot car or van, or inside the closed trunk of a car. Heat may cause the pressure relief valve to release propane.

WARNING: Flash fires and explosions can result from exposing cylinders to heat.

PROPANE POWERED VEHICLES

Propane System Test
Read and follow the instructions that come with your vehicle on how to properly use and maintain the propane system.

Your gas system should be periodically checked by your dealer for loose connections.

DISPOSING OF SMALL PROPANE CONTAINERS
Never Burn Or Crush Empty Containers. Many ordinary household products use unodorized propane as the propellant. Although they may seem empty, the containers may have propane vapors left in them.

Propane can be released when exposed to heat or pressure, enabling flash fires or explosions to occur.

Back To Top

Rental Property and Propane

INTRODUCTION
Landlords renting property with propane- fueled appliances are responsible for trying to limit the risks associated with propane.

LANDLORD RESPONSIBILITIES
Landlords have the following duties:

• inform renters of propane dangers and emergency procedures,
  
• maintain equipment, and
  
• correctly install propane appliances.

Informing Renters About Propane
Landlords should inform renters about the following information on propane:

• Review with the renter all of the information in this report, especially the Emergency Procedure.
  
• Verbally explain that propane can be dangerous. Explain what you expect the renter to do when a gas-out occurs or a pilot light goes out. The safest procedure is to have only trained personnel relight the pilot and check the tanks and cylinders.
  
• Remind the renter that any smell of gas means there is a leak, and to follow the Emergency Procedure when a leak occurs.
  
• Provide the renter with a scratch-and- sniff pamphlet containing the propane odor, and have the renter smell the odor while you are there.
  
• Provide the renter (or maintenance person) with the appliance manuals.
  
• Explain the additional risks of appliances installed below grade, if any are installed on the property.
  
• Post the Emergency Procedure found at the end of this report near each appliance and on doors.
  

Back To Top

Propane System Checklist

Refer to “Checking Your Propane System,” for more detailed information.

Your entire propane system should be checked periodically by a trained propane service person.

WHAT SHOULD BE CHECKED

1. Smell for propane odor.

2. Check cylinders and tanks for exterior rust, dents, and date.

3. Check that disconnected:

• cylinders are plugged
  
• piping is capped

4. Check the liquid level gauge on the tank or cylinder if so equipped. Refill per recommended guidelines.

5. Ensure the appliances are properly vented.

6. Check appliances for rusty or water- damaged gas control valves.

7. Check that the regulator:

• vent is pointed downward to prevent blockage from ice
  
• vent is not blocked by insects, mud­daubers, wasp nests, spider
  cocoons, etc.
  
• connector is protected from scratches or dents

8. Check that cylinders:

• are stored outdoors or in an open area in an upright positon.
  
• on portable appliances, have shut­off valves firmly closed when the appliance is not being used
  
• are away from a stove or fireplace, or not left in a hot car
  
• are in a secure position
  
• are used with a regulator

9. After a gas-out, check that shut-off valves on the cylinder or tank are turned off.

10. When closing up the house for an extended period of time, check that the propane system has been shut off at the tank or cylinder and check that the appliances are shut off.

11. The propane system on any vehicle should be inspected periodically.

Back To Top

EMERGENCY PROCEDURE FOR A PROPANE LEAK

If you smell gas in your house workplace or around any gas equipment or appliance, follow the emergency procedure below

Step Action

1 Put out all smoking materials and other open flames.

Do NOT operate electric switches.
Do NOT light matches.
Do NOT use your phone.

Any spark in the area where propane gas is present may ignite the gas. This could include the spark of a light switch, telephone. fan, or refrigerator motor, and even static electricity from walking across a room.

2 IMMEDIATELY get everyone out of the building, vehicle, trailer, or area.

3 Close all gas tank or cylinder supply valves.

4 Use your neighbor’s phone to call Brick Propane and the fire department. Do NOT re-enter the building, vehicle, trailer, or area until a trained service person advises it is safe to return.

5 Let the service person and firefighters check for escaped gas. Have them air out the area before you return.

6 Have the trained propane service person

• pressure check the system
  
• repair the leak
  
• turn on the gas
  
• check all the gas appliances, and
  
• relight the pilots on the appliances.

7 Re-enter the area only when the service person and firefighters say it is safe.

Back To Top