• What is the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) recommended exposure limit for propane?
• What are the fire and explosion dangers associated with propane?
• Is propane stable when exposed to air, moisture, or heat?
• Are there any conditions to avoid when using propane?
• Does propane have an odour threshold (at what level can I smell it)?
• Is the odour of propane reliable as a warning property?
• How can I work with propane safely?
• What can be done to control hazardous conditions?

What is the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) recommended exposure limit for propane?

TIME-WEIGHTED AVERAGE (TLV-TWA): 2500 ppm

TLV BASIS - CRITICAL EFFECT(S) : Asphyxiation

NOTE: In many jurisdictions, exposure limits are similar to the ACGIH TLVs. Since the manner in which exposure limits are established, interpreted, and implemented can vary, obtain detailed information from the appropriate government agency in each jurisdiction.

What are the fire and explosion dangers associated with propane?

Extremely flammable gas. Can form explosive mixtures with air. Gas is slightly heavier than air and may travel a considerable distance to a source of ignition and flash back to a leak or open container. Can accumulate in confined spaces, resulting in an explosion or toxicity hazard. Compressed gas. Heat from a fire can cause a rapid build-up of pressure inside cylinders, which may cause explosive rupture.

Is propane stable when exposed to air, moisture, or heat?

Yes, it is stable.

Are there any conditions to avoid when using propane?

Static charge, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources

Does propane have an odour threshold (at what level can I smell it)?

22,000 mg/m³, 36,000 mg/m³ (method not specified)

Is the odour of propane reliable as a warning property?

POOR - pure propane; GOOD - with added mercaptan odourant

How can I work with propane safely?

This material is a FLAMMABLE GAS. In some workplaces, it will be available as a compressed gas. Before handling, it is very important that engineering controls are operating and that protective equipment requirements are being followed. People working with this chemical should be properly trained regarding its hazards and its safe use.

Eliminate all ignition sources (e.g. sparks, open flames, hot surfaces). Keep away from heat and welding operations. During transfer operations, cylinders and vessels should be electrically grounded and bonded to prevent the build up of a static charge. Post NO SMOKING signs. It is very important to keep areas where this material is used clear of other materials which can burn. Prevent the release of gas into the workplace air.

Do not use with incompatible materials such as strong oxidizing agents (e.g. nitrates and perchlorates) which can increase risk of fire and explosion.

In large scale handling operations, use non-sparking ventilation systems, approved explosion-proof equipment and intrinsically safe electrical systems. Keep aisles and exits free of obstruction. Consider the installation of leak and fire detection equipment along with a suitable, automatic fire suppression system.

Use smallest, practical cylinder size in a well ventilated area separate from the storage area. Leave cylinder cap on cylinder until cylinder is secured and ready for use. Always secure cylinders to a wall, rack or other solid structure in an upright position. Do not handle cylinders with oily hands. Use the appropriate pressure regulator. Ensure equipment is compatible with cylinder pressure and contents. Follow supplier recommendations. Before connecting the cylinder for use, make sure that back feed from the system into the cylinder is prevented. Do not open cylinder if damaged. Never use excessive force when opening. Open cylinder valve slowly to prevent rapid decompression and damage to valve seat. Keep cylinder valves clean and free from contaminants (particularly oil and water). Make sure valves on gas cylinders are fully opened when gas is used. Open and shut valves at least once a day, while cylinder is in use, to avoid valve freezing. Make sure cylinders are labelled clearly. Avoid damaging cylinders. Move cylinders by hand truck or cart designed for that purpose. Do not drop cylinders or permit them to bang against each other. Do not lift cylinders by the cap or with a lifting magnet. Shut flow off at cylinder valve and not just at the regulator after use. Replace outlet caps or plugs and cylinder caps as soon as cylinder is disconnected from equipment. Keep empty cylinders under slightly positive pressure. Do not use cylinders as rollers or for any other purpose than to contain the gas as supplied. Regularly check cylinders for evidence of corrosion or leakage.

Follow handling precautions on Material Safety Data Sheet. Have suitable emergency equipment for fires, spills and leaks readily available. Practice good housekeeping. Maintain handling equipment. Comply with applicable regulations.

What can be done to control hazardous conditions?

Engineering control methods to reduce hazardous exposures are preferred. Methods include mechanical ventilation (dilution and local exhaust), process or personnel enclosure, control of process conditions, and process modification (e.g. substitution of a less hazardous material). Administrative controls and personal protective equipment may also be required.

Provide adequate local exhaust and dilution (general) ventilation to maintain airborne levels of propane safely below the lower explosive limit. Use a non- sparking, grounded ventilation system separate from other exhaust ventilation system. Exhaust directly to the outside taking necessary precautions for environmental protection. Supply sufficient air to replace air removed by exhaust ventilation systems.

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Document confirmed current on January 15, 2003

Document last updated on September 23, 1998

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