How to Solve the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Safety Problem?

Recently, the 19th Central Safety Production Inspection Team conducted a comprehensive and in-depth inspection of Xinyang City, Henan Province, focusing on key areas and rigorously investigating potential risks and hazards, sounding the alarm for local safety production. Among the issues, the LPG safety problems exposed at a company in Xinyang were particularly prominent and deserve serious attention from all sectors of society.

Inspection Case: Shocking Hazards

During their inspection of the company, the inspection team discovered serious safety hazards.

▲In the company’s cylinder storage area, densely packed LPG cylinders were stacked upside down against the wall, reaching up to seven layers high. According to safety regulations, LPG cylinders must be stacked upright; stacking them upside down greatly increases the risk of leakage and could lead to serious accidents such as explosions.

▲Next to the stacked cylinders, the probe of a combustible gas alarm, which should be constantly monitoring for leaks, was wrapped in a white plastic bag, and the explosion-proof pipe connecting the alarm was loose, rendering it ineffective.

▲Furthermore, opening the doors to the two warehouses on the left, also filled with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders, revealed that no combustible gas alarms were installed.

These hidden dangers are like ticking time bombs, potentially triggering catastrophic consequences at any moment. (Source: WeChat Official Account of the Ministry of Emergency Management of the People’s Republic of China)

Key Points for Safe Storage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is highly flammable and explosive. Once a leak occurs and accumulates, it can easily cause explosions, fires, and other major safety accidents upon contact with open flames or other ignition sources. Therefore, several key points must be given high priority when storing LPG.

1. Upright Storage: LPG cylinders must be stored upright; this is a basic safety requirement. Upright storage ensures the stable presence of both liquid and gaseous LPG within the cylinders, preventing liquid leakage. If stored upside down, liquid may flow into the pressure reducing valve, causing it to malfunction and potentially leading to leaks and explosions. Therefore, companies must designate specific upright storage areas for LPG cylinders and use appropriate supports or securing devices to ensure the cylinders do not tip over.

2. **Categorized Storage:** Enterprises should strictly demarcate dedicated storage areas for new and expired LPG cylinders, clearly labeling them. New and expired cylinders are in different states; storing them together may cause confusion and increase safety risks. Expired cylinders may have internal damage or residual hazardous substances, requiring separate storage and professional handling. Categorized storage prevents misuse of expired cylinders and improves safety management.

3. **Maintain Ventilation:** Storage areas for LPG cylinders must maintain good ventilation. If LPG leaks and ventilation is inadequate, it can accumulate in localized areas. When it reaches a certain concentration, it may explode upon contact with an open flame or electrical spark. Therefore, storage areas should have sufficient ventilation openings to ensure airflow and timely removal of leaked LPG outdoors.

4. **Controlling Storage Quantity:** Enterprises should reasonably control the number of LPG cylinders stored based on their usage needs and safety requirements. Storing too many cylinders together could have disastrous consequences in the event of an accident. Simultaneously, the area and load-bearing capacity of the storage area must be sufficient to meet the cylinder storage requirements to avoid structural damage due to overloading.

Proper Installation and Use of Combustible Gas Detectors

Installing combustible gas detectors in areas with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders is crucial. LPG is highly flammable and explosive; any leak or accumulation can easily lead to explosions, fires, and other serious accidents upon contact with open flames or other ignition sources. These areas are designated as key monitoring zones according to regulations. Installing detectors allows for real-time monitoring of gas concentrations, providing timely alerts when levels exceed safe limits, prompting personnel to take preventative measures, and ensuring the safety of life and property.

Key Points for Installing Combustible Gas Detectors

Installation Location>>>

Combustible gas detectors should be installed in areas where LPG leaks may occur, such as cylinder storage areas or near equipment using LPG. Generally, detectors should be installed at a height of 0.3-0.6 meters above the ground, as LPG is heavier than air and tends to accumulate at lower levels. Avoid installing detectors near ventilation openings, doors, or windows, as these areas are susceptible to airflow interference and can affect their sensitivity.

Quantity Configuration>>>

The number of combustible gas detectors should be determined based on the size and layout of the storage area. For larger storage areas, multiple detectors should be installed to ensure comprehensive coverage and timely detection of leaks. Generally, a detector should be installed at regular intervals (e.g., 5-15 meters).

Regular Inspection and Maintenance >>>

Combustible gas detectors require regular inspection and maintenance to ensure proper operation. Enterprises should develop an inspection plan, regularly calibrating and testing the detectors to check their sensitivity and alarm functions. Simultaneously, dust and debris on the detector surface should be cleaned regularly to avoid affecting detection performance. If a detector is found to be faulty or damaged, it should be replaced promptly.

Chicheng Electric Liquefied Petroleum Gas Safety Solutions

Chicheng Electric’s industrial and commercial point-type combustible gas detectors are compact, highly sensitive, easy to install, and do not occupy much space. They are ready to use immediately upon power-up.

The GTYQ-QB500N combustible gas detector has a built-in wireless module that can directly connect to the Chicheng Electric Smart Cloud Platform, enabling remote data viewing, online alarms, and data analysis. By monitoring the concentration of leaked combustible gases in real time, the system can issue audible and visual alarms and simultaneously activate ventilation and robotic arms to effectively prevent accidents.

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) safety cannot be ignored. By strengthening the safe storage management of LPG, correctly installing combustible gas detectors, and implementing comprehensive safety solutions, LPG safety accidents can be effectively prevented, protecting the lives and property of the public. Chicheng Electric is willing to work with you to build a solid safety barrier and create a safe environment for social stability and development.