Personal Safety

Training

Any person responsible for, or involved with, the operation and dispensing of LPG should have an understanding of the physical characteristics of the product and be trained in the operation of all ancillary equipment.

An employer has a duty under Health & Safety Act 1974 to ensure his employees are familiar and competent with the use and handling of LPG. For advice on training courses, contact Calor.

Personal Protective Equipment (P.P.E) (only for FLT installations)

Owing to its rapid vaporisation and consequent lowering of temperature, LPG, particularly liquid, can cause severe frost burns if brought into contact with the skin.

P.P.E appropriate for use with LPG must always be worn when the refuelling operation is taking place.

• Neoprene gloves, preferably gauntlets (or similar, impervious to LPG liquid).
• Goggles or faceshield.
• Long sleeved cotton overalls.
• Safety footwear.

See Useful Links for details of various suppliers of safety clothing and equipment.

Housekeeping

Housekeeping is one of the most important items influencing the safety of the Calor Gas Installation.

No smoking, no naked lights or other sources of ignition, including the use of mobile phones, pagers, or radio transmitters, are permitted in the vicinity of the installation.

• All emergency exits and gangways to be kept clear at all times.
• Do not ignore the hazard signs or remove them. (Or put your emergency sign here).
• The area must be kept free from long grass, weeds, rubbish, and other readily ignitable or hazardous materials.
• Do not park vehicles (except for during refuelling) inside the safety distances.

First Aid

Inhalation
LPG vapour is mildly narcotic, which means that inhalation of high concentrations will produce anaesthesia. Prolonged inhalation of high concentrations will cause asphyxiation. The emergency treatment for inhalation is to move the casualty to fresh air, keeping them warm and at rest. In chronic cases, where there is a loss of consciousness give oxygen, or if breathing ceases give artificial respiration. In all but the minor cases, professional medical treatment should be sought immediately.

Eyes
Immediately flush eyes with plenty of tepid water for at least 15 minutes. Hold eyelids apart while flushing to rinse the entire surface of eye and lids with water. Seek medical attention immediately.

Skin
A strong refrigerant effect is produced when liquid LPG comes into contact with the skin. This is created by the rapid evaporation of the liquid, and it can cause severe frostbite, depending on the level of exposure.

First aid treatment must be carried out immediately by placing the affected part gently under slowly running cool water, keeping it there for at least 10 minutes or until the pain ceases. If this is not possible cover the affected parts with light, dampened or wet woollen material. Encourage the casualty to exercise any fingers, toes or legs that are affected to increase circulation.

If this is not done, in severe cases, tissue damage will take place before medical aid can be obtained. In all but the most minor cases, professional medical treatment should be sought.