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Gas safety
Whether you use reticulated natural gas or a gas bottle at your home or business, you should always be aware of potential safety concerns.
Gas (natural and LPG) is colourless and odourless in its natural state. However, a chemical is added to give it a distinctive odour, similar to that of rotten eggs. This makes it easier for you to detect a gas leak and react immediately.
Neither natural gas nor LPG is poisonous or toxic, but if an area becomes filled with gas, it can cause nausea and dizziness due to the lack of oxygen. In extreme cases it can result in asphyxiation.
If you smell a gas odour:
- don't panic
- open doors and windows
- don't light a match, candle or cigarette
- don't turn electrical appliances or lights on or off
- check your gas appliances are turned off and if this does not resolve the problem call your gas distributor.
Call 000 in the first instance in an emergency situation.
The emergency number of your gas distributor should be in the top right-hand corner of your gas bill under Emergencies or Leaking Gas. Keep this telephone number handy.
Appliances
Gas appliances should be checked regularly by a qualified person. This ensures that they continue to operate safely and efficiently. Always use a licensed gasfitter to install, repair, service or remove gas appliances.
When buying a gas appliance, look for safety features such as flame failure devices, which cut off the gas if the flame is accidentally extinguished, and automatic re-ignition, which allows the appliance to relight itself if the flame is accidentally extinguished.
Pipelines
You have safety responsibilities if you are excavating on your property where there are gas pipelines. Just about anywhere you dig there could be an underground pipe or cable.
Dial Before You Dig on 1100 is a free service that covers electricity, gas, water and telecommunications, and provides the location of underground pipes and cables within your property. If the proposed excavation site within your property has underground networks, all relevant plans showing their location should be provided within two working days.
Digging and damaging pipes or cables may disrupt essential services, cause injuries and could result in a fine.
Cylinders
Your LPG distributor will maintain and test your house-connected cylinders. However, you still should be aware for any signs of malfunction. Is there a gas smell? Has the cylinder been damaged? If you have any concerns, ring your distributor.
Portable recreation LPG cylinders (barbecue, camping) need particular care. These cylinders usually contain nine kilograms of LPG and can be refilled or exchanged at most service stations.
All cylinders must have a valid 10-year stamp to be refilled. Gas refilling stations are obliged to check the date of every cylinder to be refilled. If the cylinder is not "in test" then it should not be filled.
Keep cylinders secure during transport, and don't carry them in the passenger compartment. Use and store your cylinder in a well-ventilated area, and store away from excess heat and possible sources of ignition.
Last updated 29 June 2011