Potential risks
Risk of death
Risk of explosion caused by liquefied petroleum gas escaping from a leaky liquefied petroleum gas system in enclosed areas or when the compressed-gas tank is overheated due to work being done.
Risk of burn injuries caused by explosions.
Risk of frostbite to skin and body parts caused by liquified petroleum gas spraying out and by coming into contact with components that are near the valve when the compressed-gas tanks are being emptied. Risk of poisoning or risk of suffocation caused by inhaling liquefied petroleum gas.
Safety instructions/precautions
Wear protective clothing, safety gloves and safety glasses
Keep suitable fire extinguishing equipment at hand
Keep all combustible materials and objects away from fuel-burning devices
Avoid the formation of sparks
Perform a fire safety check of all hazard areas and their surroundings after work has been performed
Never perform work in enclosed areas
Before commencing work, ensure that all sources of ignition have been removed. Ensure adequate ventilation of the immediate area around the vehicle.
Adequate ventilation means an exchange of air at least 3 times an hour at a distance of 3 meters from the gas shutoff valve.
Close the gas shutoff valves at the compressed-gas tanks before commencing repair work.
Close off the gas cylinder valve if the vehicle is to remain in closed areas, e.g. in halls or garages, for longer periods of time.
Maintenance and repair work may only be carried out by specially trained personnel.
Due to the fact that explosions can occur when the gas system has leaks, a leak test must be performed before restarting the system after repairs have been done in which the pipes and lines of the gas system have been opened.
In the Federal Republic of Germany, this leak test can only be performed by specially trained DVFG personnel as per the DVGW Work Sheet G 607.
(DVFG - German Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association)
(DVGW - German Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Water)
Observe country-specific regulations.
First aid measures:
Remove the affected person from the hazard area.
Following contact with the eyes immediately and thoroughly wash out eyes with plenty of water, making sure that the eyelids are open.
Following skin contact soak local frostbite injuries with water. The patient should get some rest and be kept warm.
Following inhalation, if drowsiness, headaches, visual impairment or irritation of the eyes, nose or throat occur, take the person into the fresh air immediately. Place unconscious persons in the recovery position and check breathing and pulse. If there is no breathing or insufficient breathing, the preferable action is to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. If necessary, carry out CPR.
If any symptoms occur, consult a physician immediately.