Propane is a clear liquid and gas. To warn of a propane leak an odorant is added that smells
like skunk odor or rotten eggs. Normally during filling you will smell the characteristic
propane smell. If you smell a strong propane odor, stop filling and leave the area
immediately to allow leaked gas to dissipate.
A liquid propane leak is much more dangerous than a vapour leak in that liquid propane
when released to the atmosphere expands 270 times its volume as it goes from a liquid to a
gas. Propane gas is approximately 1 ½ times heavier than air and can settle in low areas.
Propane vapours are extremely flammable when mixed with the correct amount of air. The
flammable limits are 2.15 to 9.6 % propane in the atmosphere. In mixtures below 2.15 %
volume the mixture is to lean to ignite. Above 9.5 % volume the mixture is too rich to ignite.
When propane is released into the air there will be a flammable propane/air mixture
somewhere.
Propane’s flammability requires that the filling area be restricted to the person filling the
cylinder. Signs must be posted that indicate sources of ignition, smoking, running vehicles
etc. must be at least 10 feet (3m) from the point that the filling process takes place.
2.2 Personal Protective Clothing:
When filling propane cylinders, you must wear clothing that cannot build up and release
static electricity. Clothing containing a high percentage of nylon can build up and release
static electric charges that are capable of igniting propane vapours. Wear clothing made from
cotton or other natural fibers such as wool.
You are transferring propane liquid when filling the 1 lb. propane cylinders and it is
recommended that to protect your eyes, wear safety glasses or goggles and to protect your
skin, wear appropriate gloves that will not freeze to your hands and long sleeves.
2.3 Contact with Liquid Propane:
If exposed eyes or skin come into contact with liquid propane flush eyes with lukewarm
water for 15 minutes. If there is a “freeze burn”, submerge the affected area in lukewarm
water and keep at this temperature until circulation returns. If fingers or hands are frost
bitten hold them next to a warm part of the body such as under the arm. Seek immediate
medical care.
2.4 Potential Ignition Sources:
Open flames from lighters and matches are capable of igniting propane vapours. Vehicles are
also considered a source of ignition. Therefore, smoking or any other source of ignition is not
permitted when filling propane cylinders. As previously stated sources of ignition are not
allowed within 10 feet of the filling location.
Test connections for leaks using either a commercial leak detector solution (available at
hardware stores) or an electronic detector calibrated for propane.