Access Canberra Safety Alert 065 – Gas Explosion

The ACT Work Safety Commissioner has issued this safety alert as a timely reminder to everyone regarding the storage and transportation of gas cylinders.

A tragic death occurred outside a south-side Canberra school late on 2 August 2018 following a gas explosion sourced from a work vehicle. Preliminary investigations indicate that an acetylene gas bottle leaked into a compartment at the back of a work ute and an ignition source has caused an explosion tragically killing the driver who was standing next to the vehicle.

Background

Flammable gas cylinders, including oxygen, acetylene, LPG, propane and butane are commonly transported in vehicles. If there is a leak of gas then any ignition source, often the vehicle’s electrical system, can cause a significant explosion.

Checks

When transporting or storing flammable gas cylinders good ventilation is essential. You should ensure:

  • cylinder valves are tightly closed
  • the regulator, hoses and torch are disconnected
  • cylinders are secured in an upright position
  • cylinders cannot be struck by other objects (such as loose tools or other materials) during transport
  • there is no leakage around the main valve area (test with an appropriate detector or soapy water)
  • carry a dry powder fire extinguisher.
Vehicles

Transport in open-type vehicles is preferred where unrestricted ventilation is provided. Some gases are heavier than air so care should be taken to ensure that there is not any low points where leaked gases can accumulate or pool.

Gas cylinders must not be carried in the passenger compartment of any vehicle. If cylinders must be carried in closed areas of vehicles, a storage cabinet with outlets in the base of the cabinet vented outside the vehicle must be used. Purpose built gas storage cabinets are available from various gas and safety gear outlets.

Staff and Training

Ensure persons using or transporting gas cylinders are appropriately trained and instructed on the proper handling, storage and transport of gas cylinders including emergency procedures.

Further Information

For further information on gas safety visit the Access Canberra Website or contact WorkSafe ACT on (02) 6207 3000 or email CMTEDDWorkSafeACT@act.gov.au

Article reproduced from Access Canberra

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