Small Cylinder Safety 
Click on a link below to jump down the page.
What Should I Do if I Smell Gas?
How Should I Store Small Cylinders?
How Should I Transport Small Cylinders?
What Should I Do if I Have a Problem with My Cylinders or Outdoor
Appliances?
How To Test for Propane Leaks
What Is an Overfill Prevention Device (OPD)?
What Should I Do with My Old or Damaged Cylinders?
How Should I Dispose of Cylinders?
What Should I do If I smell gas?
- Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames.
- If you are able to, safely turn off the cylinder valve. To close the
valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).
- Immediately leave the area and call 911 or your local fire department.
- Before you restart the appliance, have Shawley’s inspect your
cylinder and appliance.
Some people may have difficulty smelling propane due to their age (older
people may have a less sensitive sense of smell); a medical condition;
or the effects of medication, alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. Consider purchasing
a propane gas detector as an additional measure of security.
Odor fade is an unintentional reduction in the concentration of the odor
of propane, making it more difficult to smell. Although rare, this can be
caused by the presence of air, water, or rust in the cylinder. New and reconditioned
small cylinders that sit too long before being filled are prone to internal
rust when moisture and air get inside.
How Should I Store Small Cylinders?
- NEVER store or place a propane cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area
such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent.
- NEVER store or place a propane cylinder in an area of excessive heat
(120 degrees or higher) or near a stove, fireplace, or other heat source.
The heat builds up pressure inside the cylinder, which may cause the
pressure relief valve to release propane. Flash fires or explosions can
result from exposing cylinders to heat.
- NEVER store or place a spare cylinder under or near a barbecue grill.
- DO NOT smoke or have any ignition sources such as flames or spark-producing
electrical tools in the area while handling or transporting cylinders.
How Should I Transport Small Cylinders?
- ALWAYS transport and store a cylinder in a secure and upright position
so it will not fall, shift, or roll.
- ALWAYS close the cylinder valve and, if required, seal with a plug,
even if the cylinder is empty.
- NEVER keep a filled cylinder inside a hot vehicle
or transport it inside a closed trunk
- ALWAYS place the cylinder in a well-ventilated area of the vehicle.
- ALWAYS proceed directly to your destination and immediately remove
the cylinder from your vehicle.
- The law places limits on the number of cylinders and the amount of
propane that can be transported in closed-bodied vehicles such as passenger
cars and vans. Ask us for more information on state and local codes that
apply to you.
What Should I Do if I Have a Problem with My Cylinders or Outdoor Appliances?
DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES TRY TO MODIFY OR REPAIR VALVES,
REGULATORS, OR OTHER CYLINDER OR APPLIANCE PARTS. Propane cylinders incorporate
special components such as valves, connectors, and other parts to keep them
safe for use with grills and other propane appliances. Damage to any component
can cause a gas leak.
DON'T RISK IT! Call Shawley’s or a qualified gas service technician
for assistance.
How To Test for Propane Leaks
It is important to inspect your cylinder and outdoor gas appliances
for leaks. Do this before using them for the first time each season, as well
as on a regular basis. This can be accomplished with a simple "bubble" test:
- Apply leak detector solution or thick soapy water to the connection(s)
between the cylinder valve and the regulator outlet.
- Slowly open the cylinder valve and watch for bubbles.
- If bubbles appear, close the cylinder valve, tighten the connection,
and repeat the process. If bubbles still appear, call Shawley’s
immediately.
What Is an Overfill Prevention Device (OPD)?
MAKE SURE YOUR CYLINDER IS EQUIPPED WITH AN OVERFILL PREVENTION DEVICE
(OPD).
An OPD is a safety feature that helps prevent small propane cylinders from
being overfilled. An overfilled cylinder doesn't have enough space left
if the liquid expands when exposed to warmer temperatures. This can cause
an increase in cylinder pressure and create potentially hazardous conditions.
Most cylinders with OPDs have special triangular handwheels with the letters "OPD" on
them. In many states, cylinders without OPDs cannot be refilled. If you are
uncertain as to whether your cylinder has an OPD valve on it, ask Shawley’s.
What Should I Do with My Old or Damaged Cylinders?
NEVER use a damaged cylinder or a cylinder that has been in a fire. All cylinders
must be inspected before they are refilled. The law requires periodic inspection
of cylinders, and it is against the law to refill out-of-date cylinders.
The last inspection date is stamped on the cylinder.
How Should I Dispose of Cylinders?
NEVER dispose of your propane cylinder by throwing
it in the trash. Check to see if there are municipal programs for collection
in your area, or contact Shawley’s for guidance on disposal of the
cylinder.
