The leading causes of BBQ fires are equipment failure, leaks and hose breaks. By following these safety tips you will minimise the possibility of being caught on the wrong side of an accident this summer.
1. General LPG
storage and safety checks
- If the BBQ hasn't been used for a while, check the gas cylinder, hose
and connections to make sure they are still in good condition.
- Check hoses for blockages, such as spiders, which might have nested
inside during winter.
- Check connections to make sure that they are clean and fitting snugly.
- Do not store spare cylinders under the BBQ, especially in home built
enclosures. Cylinders in this position can get extremely hot due to
reflected heat from the BBQ.
- Always leak-test the connection to the cylinder every time it is
reconnected. Most leaks occur when the rubber o-ring fitted to the
regulator cracks due to age hardening, being cut or simply being
incorrectly positioned. The hose assembly should be replaced at least
every 5 years.
- LPG Hose-end and regulator connections can be simply and safely
checked by spraying a soapy water solution on them. Bubbles will form
if gas is escaping. If you see bubbles, turn off the LPG and disconnect
the hose. Then reconnect and test again for leaks.
- Use the correct type of hose. Do not make temporary connections.
- Hoses must not be kinked, or placed under strain by using them to
support the weight of the cylinder.
- Never transport LPG gas cylinders of more than 9kg in an enclosed
vehicle. Do not carry more than two cylinders in an enclosed vehicle at
the one time.
- LPG cylinders must be securely held in an upright position, preferably
in the vehicle’s boot.
- Ensure valves are turned off firmly when not in use.
- Always keep cool and away from flames, sparks and heat.
- Some cylinders are provided with a threaded plastic plug. These plugs
have a left hand thread and are removed by rotating in an anti-
clockwise direction.
- Adequate ventilation is essential when using LPG to allow the gas to
burn and burnt gases to dissipate.
2. Getting ready to fire up
- Operate BBQ in accordance with the instructions and only open the
cylinder valve one complete turn. Fully opening the valve makes no
difference to the gas flow and can sometimes jam the valve in the open
position. This can then lead people to think that the valve is actually
closed.
- Shut off the gas cylinder and the BBQ when the BBQ is not in use.
- Never use a BBQ indoors or in a confined space because of the risk of
fumes and smoke and the possibility of starting a fire. To prevent a fire
hazard, ensure there is adequate clearance around the BBQ.
3. Make sure you’ve got the right gas - Only use LPG cylinders from reputable outlets.
- People with their own cylinders should ensure that they are only filled
by authorised re-fillers who will also check if the cylinder has a current
test date.
If you suspect or detect any leakage from the valve of a cylinder, move the cylinder to a safe location from any possible source of ignition. Keep all flames and sparks away. Check valve is turned off. Hose with water.
If it is not possible to stop the leak, keep the leak uppermost so that only gas and not liquid escapes. Keep hands and face clear of any escaping liquid.