The word ‘safe’ is typically associated with propane. And it IS safe as compared to other forms of gas, when handled properly.
Propane safety is taken seriously by propane organizations, propane suppliers and retailers. The Propane Education & Research Council, for instance, offers a Propane Safety Brochure and Propane Safety Booklet for a nominal charge.
The National Propane Gas Association provides a Certified Employee Training Program (CETP) that covers safety practices. And the National Fire Protection Association outlines safety tips in regards to those who use propane.
If You Use Propane, Do It Safely
While some of this and other propane safety materials might address issues that most consumers or professionals know about, it’s worth taking time to review safe propane practices. There might always be one or two things that you didn’t think of or even realize, and one small mistake when it comes to propane use can result in a major catastrophe.
Let’s take a closer look at some general propane safety topics that all home and business owners who use propane in any way should be aware of to ensure their well-being and the well-being of their families, employees and patrons.
What You Should Know for Safe Propane Use
Propane is a liquid gas that is both colorless and odorless. Odorless? You might think. Then how can I possibly know if there’s a leak?
For your safety, a chemical is added to propane to give it that very distinct “rotten egg” or “decayed cabbage” smell. It’s actually easy to detect a propane gas leak. If your home is powered by propane, or if you have a propane stove or fireplace or any other appliance, and you smell this unmistakable odor, quickly:
- Extinguish any flames
- Turn off the propane at the main source–know where your shutoff valve is!
- Get all family members or employees out of the house or building
- Call your propane supply company or fire department
- Have a professional check your propane systems, such as gas lines and storage tank
Of course, it’s not safe to use propane tanks inside the home. Tanks should be located outside; you can choose from above- or underground storage tanks. Your system should receive regularly-scheduled maintenance and a safety checklist should be completed at each inspection. Propane systems should be checked after heavy rains, high winds or other storms.
Keeping tanks filled is a little-considered but important propane safety tip. Running out of propane can cause pilot lights to go out, for instance. Lighting pilot lights can sometimes be challenging. Follow all instructions for lighting pilot lights carefully. If you’re at all hesitant or unsure, have a professional complete this task.
Also, a line or valve might be left open when your tank runs out of propane. When it’s filled, this can inadvertently cause a leak you might be unaware of. Avoid this potentially fatal mistake by keeping tanks filled.
An overfill prevention device (OPD) is recommended for small propane cylinders. Overfilling increases the pressure inside the cylinder, which is hazardous.
Capping unused gas lines is necessary when it comes to propane safety. Again, if you’re unsure, call a professional.
Play It Safe With Diversified Energy
You don’t get to be a leading propane supply company by being unsafe or unreliable. For all your propane needs, you can turn to Diversified Energy. We serve North Carolina and the Mount Joy, PA area.
Safety is our utmost concern at Diversified Energy. We have top-notch technicians who are safety-certified and can safely install propane tanks and gas lines, inspect and repair equipment and make timely propane deliveries using our Automatic Delivery System.
Join over 25,000 satisfied customers. Search our Service locations and find out more about making Diversified Energy your propane supplier.
Our safe propane delivery, installation and maintenance practices are tops in the business.
