Liquefied petroleum gases

Overview

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which includes propane, butane, and mixtures of these gases, is used as heating, cooking, and auto fuel.

LPG is heavier than air and will flow along floors and tend to settle in low spots, such as basements. This could cause an explosion if the mixture of LPG and air is within its explosive limits and there is an ignition source. People also risk suffocating as the gas displaces air and reduces the oxygen concentration. People can also be exposed to LPG by breathing it in, skin contact, and eye contact. Other workplace hazards associated with LPG include excess pressure in storage containers and improper use of safety devices, regulators, electrical installations, and other potential sources of ignition.

LPG is generally stored as a liquid, in steel vessels ranging from small gas canisters to large gas cylinders and storage tanks.