esv.vic.gov.au
Multiple risks involved in the
misuse of portable gas appliances
By Jason Treseder, Senior Gas Engineer
Following these simple rules will ensure the safe use of portable gas
appliances and reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, or fire
and property damage.
There is often a change in how
consumers use portable outdoor gas
appliances during the cooler months that
increases the risk of a serious incident
occurring. By being aware of how to use
your portable gas appliance correctly,
you can significantly reduce the risk of
tragedy occurring.
It is critical that portable gas
appliances intended for outdoor
use are only used outdoors.
Appliances such as barbecues, portable
un-flued camping heaters and patio
heaters must never be used indoors,
and must have good ventilation when
they are used outdoors. Cold weather
and a lack of indoor heating can create
the temptation to bring outdoor gas
appliances indoors, but this is not worth
the risk of a serious incident happening.
In recent years, patio heaters and
camping heaters have been involved in
a number of fatalities and caused painful
injuries. In each case, the gas heaters
were being used in small-enclosed
spaces during cold weather. It is worth
remembering that Indoor areas include
tents, caravans, cars or any enclosed
area that has low levels of fresh air and
limited ventilation openings.
NOTE: An outdoor area is defined as an area with
multiple large openings with plenty of free flowing
air. The appliance instruction manual will provide
diagrams of different room configurations required
for a partially enclosed area to be considered
outdoors. Examples include a room with two open
sides/walls, or a room with no roof or door.
Risk of carbon monoxide
poisoning
Risk of gas leaks
All gas appliances require fresh air to
operate safely, and good ventilation to
allow the products of combustion to
escape. Before using the appliance, ensure it is in
good condition and you are familiar with
its operation. Look for signs of damage
or missing parts and check the condition
of all hoses, seals and O-rings.
If an outdoor appliance does not have
enough ventilation for carbon monoxide
to dissipate, conditions are created for
high levels of carbon monoxide gas to
form within the space. Carbon monoxide
is lighter than air and forms pools that
build up to dangerous levels very quickly. Seals and O-rings must be correctly
fitted and in good condition with no
visible cracks or damage. If you are not
clear on the appliance’s operation, read
the manufacturer’s instruction manual
and be aware of the safety warnings
provided.
Clear warning labels are displayed
on the appliance, in addition to the
specifications for use in the instruction
manual. Check for gas leaks before attempting
to light your appliance. This should
be done each time the appliance is
used, particularly for new appliances or
appliances that have not been used for a
while. Leaks can be identified by coating
connections with soapy water, either
with a brush or squirt bottle. If you see
bubbles forming, there is a gas leak at
that connection.
Risk of fire
An operating gas appliance will also
generate radiant heat that can result in
damage to property and personal injury
if it is not located correctly.
Ensure there is adequate clearance
around the appliance from nearby
combustible materials such as timber
walls, tent walls, sheds and fences.
The instruction manual and labels on
the appliance will specify the minimum
clearances required. Particular attention
should be paid to side clearances and
overhead clearances to minimise the
risk of fire. Appliances should also be
located away from walkways and on
firm level ground to prevent tipping.
Be aware that LP gas has a distinctive
odour and the smell of gas may also
indicate a gas leak. If a leak is identified,
isolate the gas at the cylinder or cartridge
and investigate the cause of the leak.
It may simply be a matter of tightening
the connection and checking again, or it
may be the result of missing or damaged
seals, which must be replaced before the
appliance can be used.
If a connection continues to leak,
disconnect the gas and do not use the
appliance until the cause of the leak
has been repaired. If you cannot fix the
leak, contact the supplier or a licensed
gasfitter for assistance.
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