Product Overview

This Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a comprehensive safety management document designed to identify, assess, and control risks associated with the storage, handling, transfer, and use of LPG on Australian worksites. It provides detailed procedures and controls to support WHS compliance and safe management of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in a wide range of construction, maintenance, and industrial applications.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Selection, inspection, and safe storage of LPG cylinders, tanks, and associated fittings
• Safe handling, manual movement, and securing of LPG cylinders to prevent impact, crushing, or falling hazards
• Connection and disconnection of LPG cylinders to appliances, burners, and equipment using correct procedures
• Leak detection, isolation, and response procedures for suspected or confirmed LPG gas leaks
• Management of ignition sources, hot work, and static electricity in areas where LPG is stored or used
• Ventilation and atmospheric monitoring controls to prevent accumulation of LPG in low-lying or enclosed areas
• Use of LPG for heating, cutting, or other construction processes in accordance with manufacturer instructions
• Transport of LPG cylinders on vehicles, including securing, segregation, and signage requirements
• Emergency response procedures for LPG-related fires, explosions, or uncontrolled releases
• Training, competency, and supervision requirements for workers handling or operating LPG systems
• Use, inspection, and maintenance of regulators, hoses, valves, and flame arrestors to prevent equipment failure
• Housekeeping, signage, and exclusion zones around LPG storage and use areas on site
• Incident reporting, investigation, and corrective actions following LPG-related near misses or events

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for gas fitters, plumbers, construction and maintenance contractors, facility managers, manufacturing and workshop operators, and site supervisors responsible for any work involving LPG storage, handling, or use.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017
• Safe Work Australia – Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace Code of Practice: Guidance on identifying, assessing, and controlling risks from hazardous chemicals such as LPG
• Safe Work Australia – Labelling of Workplace Hazardous Chemicals Code of Practice: Requirements for correct labelling of LPG cylinders and storage areas
• Safe Work Australia – Preparation of Safety Data Sheets for Hazardous Chemicals Code of Practice: Reference for understanding and using LPG Safety Data Sheets on site
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Risk of Fire and Explosion at the Workplace Code of Practice: Controls for ignition sources, flammable atmospheres, and emergency response involving LPG
• AS/NZS 1596: The storage and handling of LP Gas: Key standard for safe design, storage, and handling of LPG installations and cylinders
• AS/NZS 5601 (Gas installations): Requirements for safe installation and use of gas systems and appliances where LPG is used