Steps to conduct a pre-fill container inspection

A propane container, whether an ASME tank or DOT cylinder, must be visually inspected prior to being filled. This inspection takes only a few minutes and goes far to ensure safety.

Photo by LP Gas staff

As you approach the container, observe the following:

• The container must be located a proper distance from an important building, driveway or source of ignition. Refer to NFPA 58 2020 Section 6.4 and Annex I.
• Look for building additions and ignition sources added after the container was installed.
• The container must be sitting level on a firm foundation such as concrete blocks or a paved surface.
• Observe the container for signs of leaks such as odor, hissing noise, oil residue or insects.
• There must be no corrosion, dents, digs, gouges or abrasions, and the dome and legs (or collar and foot ring) must be securely attached.
• The ASME container data plate must be securely affixed to the container and legible. A DOT container must have a current requalification marking.
• All container appurtenances must be in place, leak-free and operating properly.
• Regulators must be secure under cover with the vent facing down. Second-stage regulators must be vented a proper distance from building openings and ignition sources.
• Yard lines must be properly buried and aboveground piping secure.

The container is the backbone of the installation. Never service a defective container.

Keep your eyes on safety.

Read more:

• Safety minute: Confirming odorant in propane
• Know the basics of a new piping pressure test
• Complete thorough system leak checks
• Make a habit of propane forklift safety
• 10 safety checks to complete during the off-season

Benny Gay is vice president of operational support at ThompsonGas. He can be reached at bennygay@thompsongas.com.