LPG safety advice.
LPG is a safe, clean fuel when it is stored and used properly. Here is what every business should know.
Independent, family-run LPG supplier near York since 1988
Gas emergency
Is your tank or cylinder leaking? Act now.
LPG has a strong smell added so that leaks can be detected. If you smell gas:
- Put out all naked flames and don’t smoke.
- Don’t operate electrical switches, including lights, or use anything that could cause a spark.
- Turn off the supply at the tank or cylinder valve, if it is safe to do so.
- Ventilate by opening doors and windows.
- Move away and keep people out of the area.
- Call 999 if there is a fire or immediate danger.
- Call our emergency number, 01759 361810, so we can advise and arrange help. See emergency guidance.
Call out fees apply if there is no issue with the tank or cylinders.
LPG is heavier than air. It sinks and can collect in drains, cellars and low-lying areas.
Cylinders
Storing and handling cylinders.
Upright and outdoors
Store cylinders upright in a secure, well-ventilated outdoor area, on firm, level ground.
Nothing below ground
Never store cylinders in cellars, basements or near drains and pits.
Away from ignition
Keep cylinders away from heat, flames, electrical equipment and combustible materials.
Valves closed
Close valves on empty and spare cylinders, and fit any protective caps.
Move with care
Use a trolley for larger cylinders and never roll or drop them.
Check connections
Inspect hoses and regulators regularly and replace damaged parts.
Tanks
Keeping your tank safe.
Keep the area clear
No vegetation, rubbish, stored materials or parked vehicles around the tank.
Protect from vehicles
Use barriers where vehicles move nearby.
No ignition sources
No smoking, fires or barbecues near the tank.
Report damage
Contact us straight away about damage, corrosion or anything unusual.
Appliances and ventilation
Appliances, ventilation and carbon monoxide.
- Only a Gas Safe registered engineer should install, service or repair gas appliances. Check the engineer’s ID card.
- Have appliances serviced regularly, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Never block ventilation grilles or flues.
- Fit audible carbon monoxide alarms where gas appliances are used.
- Signs of CO include headaches, dizziness, nausea and tiredness. If you suspect CO, turn off appliances, get into fresh air and seek medical advice.
Regulations
The rules that apply.
Businesses that store and use LPG must comply with health and safety law. The main rules and guidance include:
- The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, covering the installation, maintenance and use of gas appliances and pipework.
- The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR), which require employers to assess and control risks from flammable substances such as LPG.
- LGUK Codes of Practice, including Code of Practice 1 for bulk LPG storage and Code of Practice 7 for cylinder storage.
For more information see the Health and Safety Executive, Liquid Gas UK and Gas Safe Register. This page is general guidance, not a substitute for your own risk assessment.
Call us on 01759 371 305 and we’ll help with questions about your tank or cylinders.
Questions about your installation?
Call the office, Monday to Friday 7am to 4pm, or send us a message.
For commercial customers
Switching your business gas is on us.
We’ll cover your outgoing tank uplift fees with up to £1,000 in account credit.
Account credit
up to£1,000
towards your outgoing supplier's tank uplift fees
Bulk commercial customers only, with a minimum usage of 20,000 litres per year. We’ll cover the outgoing supplier’s tank uplift fees up to a total value of £1,000, paid as credit on your Rectory Gas Supplies customer account. Terms apply.