To avoid cooking gas cylinder accidents, there is an urgent need to review common practices to keep safe and avoid accidents. Some of the practices could be the cause for concern, according to Samir al Zadjali, Health, Safety and Environment Advisor at Petroleum Development Oman and Secretary at the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (UK) IOSH Oman Branch.
“There might be several reasons behind such events; most importantly, lack of awareness regarding safe handling of LPG cylinders; improper fitting of regulators; poor condition of hoses; inappropriate connection and fitting; storage of gas cylinders close to combustible materials as well as keeping regulator knob open position when not in use,” he said.
Need for awareness
According to him, there is a drastic need for awareness. “The concerned authorities shall increase the safety awareness related to LPG cylinders by organising seminars at different venues including universities, colleges, TV programmes etc, emphasising the safe handling of gas cylinders.
“Some misconceptions might need clarification; for instance, keeping the cylinders outdoors is a good procedure, but how is it stored? Should we pay attention to how the cylinders are moved?
Al Zadjali noted that people sometimes keep cylinders in laying positions or leave them in hot water tubs in an attempt to get the residual LPG left at the bottom of the bottle. It might cause serious explosions.
Never expose it to sunlight
Many households prefer to keep the gas cylinders outside in the open. Is there any danger when the temperature is high? Al Zadjali replied, “Keeping domestic gas cylinders outside and separated from the kitchen is a good practice. However, under no circumstances should they be kept in an open atmosphere or exposed to direct sunlight. Due to high temperature, this will increase the pressure inside the cylinder bottle and subsequently cause a blast.”
So where and why do people go wrong? According to Al Zadjali these are some of the errors leading to mishaps. “After installing or replacing a gas cylinder people fail to ensure that the connections and fittings are adequately secure and there’s no sign of leakage. Using pipes or hoses with signs of wear/damage is another error. Igniting the burner without prior check could also to accidents. Sometimes, people also opt to drop or slam the cylinders on hard surfaces, especially when transporting and handling them, which could lead to an explosion. ”
Safety measures
According to Al Zadjali, people must ensure that the cylinders are protected against sunlight exposure and extreme weather conditions. Regularly inspect the fittings, connections, and regulators for possible leaks and repair them if deemed necessary. Always ensure that knobs are kept OFF when not in use. Maintain proper handling of electrical appliances installed near LPG cylinders. Ensure kitchens have proper ventilation.
Ensure the kitchen is equipped with safety equipment like fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and heat detectors. Ensure that people at home are trained on how to use the fire extinguisher and what type to select for different fires. Never put gas cylinders in the laying position; make sure the valve is always at the uppermost/stand position.
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