Bulk LPG tanks are dedicated pressure vessels that are heavily regulated and covered by a variety of legislation.
When your LPG tank was first installed, whether it is an above-ground tank sited in your garden, or an underground LPG tank buried with just the access cover visible, it will have been located in accordance with strict Codes of Practice and LPG tank installation regulations. Whilst domestic LPG users can own their tanks, there are safety and legal issues to consider, and in the vast majority of cases, the tank will be owned by your supplier who will also be responsible for its maintenance.
However, as a user of LPG, you still have responsibilities in relation to your tank. In this blog we’re going to take a look at these responsibilities, what they mean to you, and what you need to do to ensure that your tank is maintained in a safe and compliant condition.
Let’s look at the main reasons for the tank storage regulations
Whilst LPG, when used correctly, is a very safe energy source, the domestic bulk LPG tank storage regulations are there for the safety of you, your family, and your premises.
LPG is a highly flammable and pressurised gas, and in the event of a leak, it can ignite. The distance between your LPG tank and any structures reduces the chance of ignition should there be a leak. Depending on the type of tank and its capacity, there are minimum separation distances from buildings, boundaries, property lines or fixed sources of ignition that must be adhered to.
The regulations also ensure that your LPG delivery driver has clear access and line of sight between the wagon and your tank when making deliveries. Plus, access for ongoing tank maintenance and even emergency access should it ever be needed.
Remember the regulations are there to protect you, your property – and the environment too! So let’s take a closer look at what you need to know.
Siting your tank
Over time, you may wish to make changes to your property and the area in which your LPG tank was originally installed. Perhaps you want to erect a shed or a fence, build a conservatory or garage, or even plant shrubs nearby to make the surrounding area more aesthetically pleasing.
These should not be any closer to the tank than the minimum distance - it's important to be mindful of the separation distance between the tank and any buildings, fences, or boundary lines. Do not erect any building or structure within 3 metres of the tank or allow any deep-rooted shrubs to grow within the same distance. Also, remember that LPG storage tanks should never be installed in buildings or open pits, or enclosed by walls or solid fences on more than two sides. Visual screening should be no closer than 1 metre from the tank to ensure there is adequate ventilation.
Another consideration is where you park your vehicles. They must be parked at a safe distance from your tank to ensure there’s no risk of them accidentally bumping the tank or rolling into it. Typically the required distance is 3 metres. Also, vehicles can act as ignition sources which could potentially ignite any LPG vapours in the vicinity of the tank. And if your LPG tank is an underground one, vehicles should not be driven over or parked directly above the tank.
Ventilation
To allow air to flow freely in the area around your LPG tank, make sure your tank is in an open, unobstructed location with plenty of room around it so air can flow freely.
LPG is heavier than air so will sink and accumulate at ground level or low-lying areas such as basements or trenches should there be a leak. Keeping to the tank minimum separation distances ensures there is sufficient ventilation around the tank so any gas can disperse in the event of a leak, reducing the risk of a dangerous build-up of gas.
Stay rubbish free
It’s important to keep the area around your tank free from rubbish and combustible materials which could increase the risk of fire. Debris near the tank could also obstruct safety features such as LPG regulators and valves, increasing the risk of leaks, not to mention hindering air circulation.
Keeping the area clutter-free will help ensure compliance – as well as make it easier for your driver to deliver and your engineer to carry out regular maintenance.
Do regular routine inspections
Whilst your supplier will be responsible for regular maintenance of your LPG tank, and your driver will inspect it each time he tops you up, having a quick check around the visible parts of your LPG tank on a regular basis is important – that way you’ll be familiar with your tank and more likely to spot any changes should they happen. Do not, under any circumstances, try and rectify anything yourself but contact a professional GAS SAFE registered engineer.
Check on a regular basis for signs of rust or corrosion, or any visible signs of damage or wear and tear to the tank’s exterior. Inspect valves, connections, and fittings for leaks using a soapy water solution – if you see any bubbles, you may have a leak. A hissing sound could be an indication too, as could any sudden unexplained drop in pressure or LPG tank reading.
Keep the area around the tank rubbish-free and well-maintained. Cut back overhanging branches, overgrown bushes, and shrubs, and keep fire pits, barbecues or any other potential ignition sources at a safe distance.
Do not attempt to move the tank yourself
Whilst you might be tempted to move your tank yourself, don’t! Moving your tank requires specialist knowledge.
LPG tanks are pressure vessels and are heavily regulated. Your tank must be moved in compliance with legislation, a thorough safety assessment must also be carried out before, during, and after the tank is moved. Always use a professional GAS SAFE registered engineer with the specialist knowledge and equipment needed.
If you are planning to make any changes to your property, please contact your supplier for help and advice and to ensure you stay gas safe. Or if you’re planning to move your LPG storage tank, you must ensure it is still safe and conforms to domestic LPG tank siting regulations. We’re here to help and if you have any questions, pick up the phone and give us a call on 01423 772 789. We’ll be happy to help.