LPG Safety
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a safe and reliable energy source when handled correctly. To help protect you, your family, and your business, we’ve put together essential LPG safety tips. These cover everyday handling, transport, storage, and what to do in emergencies such as bushfires, floods, or cyclones.
Need Help or Smell Gas?
Your safety is our priority. In cases of emergency, always contact Emergency Services on 000. For urgent issues, reach out to the help lines listed below. If you are unsure about handling LPG cylinders, contact your local Supagas branch for expert advice.
Emergency Services: 000
Supagas 24-Hour Emergency Line QLD, NSW, ACT, VIC, TAS, SA: 1300 651 106
Supagas 24-Hour Emergency Line WA & NT: 1800 093 336
Rule #1: If You Smell It, Switch it Off!
LPG is deliberately given a strong odour (similar to rotten eggs) to make leaks easy to detect. If you smell gas:
Turn off the cylinder valve immediately.
Extinguish all flames and remove ignition sources.
Do not operate electrical equipment or vehicles nearby.
Contact Supagas or Emergency Services if the leak persists.
Remember: prevention is the best protection against fire.
Freeze Burn Risk - Handle Cylinders Safely
LPG is stored as a liquid under pressure but is released from the cylinder as a gas. When released, it can drop to –42°C, causing severe freeze burns if it contacts skin.
To stay safe when changing or handling cylinders:
Always wear long sleeved anti-static clothing.
Use thermally insulated gloves.
Protect your eyes with safety glasses.
Always Store Cylinders Upright
LPG liquid expands rapidly if released. Keeping cylinders upright ensures only vapour, not liquid, escapes in the event of a leak or high pressure increase within the cylinder.
Store on a flat, stable, non-combustible surface.
Cylinders must be secured against accidental dislodgement.
Keep cylinders outside in a well-ventilated area.
Do not store in basements, sheds, or enclosed spaces.
Leave Installation to the Experts
All fixed LPG installations must be carried out by a licensed or authorised gas fitter. This includes homes, businesses, food vans, caravans, and boats.
Only use hoses, regulators, and parts designed and approved for LPG.
Regularly check fittings and appliances for deterioration or corrosion.
Have systems serviced at recommended intervals to ensure compliance and safety.
How to Check the Gas Level in Your Cylinder
Want to know how much gas is left in your LPG cylinder? Here’s a simple method you can do at home:
Fill a jug with hot water. Carefully pour the hot water over the outside of the cylinder, starting from the top and working your way down to the base.
Run your hand down the cylinder. The metal will remain warm above the LPG level, while the portion of the cylinder that contains LPG will feel noticeably cooler.
Mark the level. The point where the temperature changes shows approximately how much LPG is left inside the cylinder.
Safety note: Only adults should handle hot water. Please exercise care, and remember that Supagas is not responsible for any mishandling or injury resulting from this process.
Safe Transport of LPG Cylinders
When transporting LPG:
Secure cylinders upright at all times.
Ensure the valve is shut tightly and fitted with a protective plug if required.
Remove cylinders from your vehicle promptly upon arrival.
Transport inside a cabin is not permitted for any LPG cylinder larger than 9kg. Transport inside a cabin is permitted, but not recommended, for a maximum of 1 x 8.5kg or 1 x 3.7kg gas cylinder.
How to Safely Replace an Empty 45kg LPG Cylinder
When changing over an empty 45kg LPG cylinder make sure to:
Shut off the valve on the empty cylinder.
Turn off appliance isolation cocks.
Disconnect safely before attaching the new cylinder.
Recheck all connections for leaks before use.
LPG Safety - Cyclones, Severe Storms and Flooding
Here are some LPG safety tips in the event of cyclones, severe storms and flooding:
Close all cylinder valves before the weather event.
Keep cylinders upright and secure them to a fixed structure (e.g., post, wall, or cage).
Never move cylinders indoors, into vehicles, or sheds.
Do not use LPG appliances during the event.
Report lost or damaged cylinders to Supagas—do not attempt recovery yourself.
Do not reopen valves until a licensed gas fitter has inspected your system.
LPG Safety - In the Event of a Bushfire
Clear vegetation and flammable materials from around cylinders.
Ensure cylinders are upright, outside, and secured in a stable position.
Close all cylinder valves and shut off all appliances prior to the bushfire approaching.
After the fire threat passes, do not use cylinders until checked for heat damage by a licensed gas fitter or contact Supagas to arrange a swap.
General Cylinder Storage Guidelines
Keep cylinders away from ignition sources, heat, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Store in well-ventilated outdoor areas only.
Do not paint, alter, or tamper with cylinders.
Always check manufacturer’s and supplier’s safety instructions.