LPG Cylinder Explosion: Reasons and Precautions

Domestic LPG cylinders if not handled properly, can lead to disastrous and fatal consequences. It’s almost impossible to have an LPG blast on its own without related factors. Firstly, a gas leak from the cylinder or regulator gets mixed with air, forming a combustible mixture. To complete the fire triangle we need a spark or a source of ignition. This spark ignites the combustible LPG-air mixture and this leads to an explosion. Such explosions normally take place during the odd hours when people are not alert, like right after getting out of bed if one uses electrical appliances or uses the gaslighter.

Prevention is always better than cure. It’s imperative to follow safety measures while handling LPG cylinders. It’s mostly negligent and careless handling that leads to cooking gas cylinder explosion. Embracing these effective safety measures will help in avoiding such accidents.

• Don’t put the cylinder in a hot water bath even if there is some residual LPG left as chances of a gas cylinder explosion are always on the rise when they are exposed to heat and fire.
• Unknowingly keeping the gas knob in an open position. Remember to keep the regulator knob in off position when not in use.
• Do not store flammable and plastics in the kitchen near the LPG cylinder or cooking area.
• Proper handling of electrical appliances.
• The kitchen and the cooking area should be well ventilated.
• ISI approved rubber tubes and regulators are to be used.
• LPG cylinders should be bought from authorized franchisees only.