» Guidelines for the safe use of LPG in mobile catering installations & ventures.
The main hazards in the storage and use of LPG are leakage, which leads to possible fire or explosion risks; and inadequate ventilation, which leads to the build up of toxic gases due to incomplete combustion.
» Cylinder storage
Cylinders should be installed in the vertical position in either, a suitable compartment on the Unit/Vehicle, or located in a suitable outdoor position.
Any compartment must:
- Be accessible only from the outside
- Be properly ventilated
- Be secure against unauthorised access
- Contain only cylinders, regulators, manifolds change-over devices and pipework
- Be gas-tight to the interior of the unit
- Have 30 minutes fire resistant walls or lining (BS : 476 Parts 20-22)
- Display an “Extremely Flammable LPG” sign
Any open air installation must be:
- On firm and level ground with cylinders secure in the vertical position
- Secure against unauthorised interference
- Sited at least 1 metre, measured horizontally, from any ventilation openings or accessible compartments of any adjacent permanent or temporary buildings or structures, or other possible sources of ignition.
NOTE: Cylinders not to be changed in the presence of naked lights.
The number of cylinders kept should be the minimum necessary for the type and number of appliances served. Any reserve cylinders in stock should be on a 1 for 1 replacement basis.
Tools must never be used to turn cylinder valves on or off.
» Catering appliances
Catering appliances must:
- Be securely fastened or supported in the unit
- Be manufactured to a recognised standard and carry the CE mark.
- Be fitted as the manufacturer recommends. (see also BS 5482 Pt 2 and BS :
- 6173)
- Have adequate ventilation for the type of appliance.
- Preferably be fitted with a properly designed flue
- Have canopies or extractor hoods if appropriate. (always for fryers)
- Have fixed ventilation appropriate to the size of appliance, (NOT doors,
- windows, hatches, or skylights), which must NEVER be less than a total of
- 4000 sq mm (-equivalent to 2” by 4”).
- NOT be located to endanger emergency escape routes from the unit.
- Protected with a flame failure device.
- If a deep fat fryer, have a thermostatic gas cut-off valve which operates if the temperature of the frying medium exceeds 230°C.
- NOT be operated whilst vehicle is in motion.
» Regulators, pipework, maintenance & fire precautions
For information relating to regulators and pipework, maintenance and fire precautions please refer to the PDT “Using LPG in mobile catering installations & vehicles safely”.
