Propane Safety & Information

Propane is a highly efficient hydrocarbon fuel extracted from natural gas. It is also extremely versatile, with uses as a motor fuel, in home and commercial heating, and in a wide range of recreational equipment.

Propane may take the form of a liquid or gas, depending on pressure and temperature. Usually it is stored as a liquid under pressure. In its natural state, propane is non-toxic, colourless, odourless and heavier than air. Normally an "odourant" is added so that it can be readily detected in the event of a leak.

Propane, like gasoline, provides many benefits if handled carefully. But there is also the potential for propane explosions and fires it if is handled incorrectly. Propane is flammable in gas or liquid state. Propane is non-toxic, but can displace oxygen leading to suffocation in confined spaces. Liquid propane coming in contact with skin can cause freeze burns. Proper protective clothing should always be worn when handling propane.

 

The following safety tips are important:

• Do not smoke when filling a propane tank or when near the propane dispenser.
• Extinguish appliance pilot lights during gasoline and propane refueling. Otherwise the lights could act as sources of ignition and cause an explosion.
• Use only certified appliances (those approved by the Canadian Gas Association (CGA), the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC). Other appliances not clearly marked with these approvals should first be converted by a qualified propane technician.
• Leak-test your system. Apply soapy water or leak-test solution to your cylinder valve, regulator fittings and piping connections. Close the appliance's on-off valve, then open the cylinder valve completely and look for bubbles from the soapy water. If you find any, close the cylinder valve completely and have the leak repaired by a qualified propane service person. 

 

When transporting and handling propane:

• Keep the cylinder valve closed tightly and secured by a plastic plug.
• Keep cylinders upright and well-ventilated at all times.
• Handle cylinders gently and with care.
• Use only approved cylinders which are in good repair.
• Extinguish or remove all ignition sources before handling, transporting or installing propane cylinders.