Product Overview

Summary: This LPG Storage and Handling Safe Operating Procedure sets out clear, practical steps for safely receiving, storing, transferring and using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Australian workplaces. It helps businesses control fire, explosion and asphyxiation risks while demonstrating compliance with WHS duties and relevant Australian Standards.

LPG is widely used across Australian workplaces for heating, cooking, powering equipment and industrial processes, but it presents significant safety risks if it is not stored and handled correctly. This Safe Operating Procedure provides a structured, step‑by‑step approach to managing LPG cylinders and bulk tanks, from delivery and inspection through to connection, use, disconnection and return or disposal. It details how to set up compliant storage areas, segregate LPG from ignition sources, manage ventilation, and implement robust leak detection and emergency response practices.

For businesses, uncontrolled LPG use can lead to fires, explosions, property damage, serious injury and prosecution under WHS legislation. This SOP translates complex regulatory and technical requirements into clear, task‑focused instructions that frontline workers and supervisors can follow. It supports consistent training, reduces reliance on informal practices, and provides documented evidence that your organisation is systematically managing LPG risks in line with Australian standards and regulator expectations.

Key Benefits

• Ensure LPG storage and handling practices align with Australian WHS legislation and relevant Australian Standards.
• Reduce the risk of fire, explosion and gas leaks through clearly defined control measures and inspection routines.
• Standardise how workers receive, move, connect and disconnect LPG cylinders across all sites.
• Improve emergency readiness with documented procedures for leaks, fires, evacuations and first aid.
• Support inductions and refresher training with a clear, worker‑friendly reference document.

Who is this for?

• WHS Managers
• Site Supervisors
• Facilities Managers
• Warehouse Managers
• Maintenance Supervisors
• Gas Fitters and Technicians
• Hospitality Venue Managers
• Manufacturing and Production Managers
• Laboratory Managers
• Construction Site Managers
• Service Station Operators

Hazards Addressed

• Fire and explosion due to LPG leaks and ignition sources
• Asphyxiation from gas accumulation in poorly ventilated areas
• Cold burns and frostbite from contact with liquid LPG or rapidly discharging cylinders
• Cylinder rupture or projectile hazards from heat exposure or mechanical damage
• Manual handling injuries from lifting, moving or securing LPG cylinders
• Vehicle and mobile plant impacts on LPG storage cages or tanks
• Static electricity and other ignition sources during transfer operations
• Environmental and property damage from uncontrolled gas release

Included Sections

• 1.0 Purpose and Scope
• 2.0 Definitions and Abbreviations
• 3.0 Roles, Responsibilities and Competency Requirements
• 4.0 Applicable Legislation, Standards and Codes of Practice
• 5.0 LPG Hazards and Risk Management Overview
• 6.0 LPG Storage Requirements (Cages, Tanks, Ventilation and Separation Distances)
• 7.0 Cylinder and Tank Receipt, Inspection and Acceptance Criteria
• 8.0 Safe Manual Handling, Transport and Securing of LPG Cylinders
• 9.0 Safe Connection, Operation and Disconnection Procedures
• 10.0 Leak Detection, Testing and Routine Inspection Checks
• 11.0 Control of Ignition Sources and Hot Work Near LPG
• 12.0 Housekeeping, Signage and Security of LPG Storage Areas
• 13.0 Emergency Procedures for Leaks, Fires and Explosions
• 14.0 Incident Reporting, Investigation and Corrective Actions
• 15.0 Training, Induction and Competency Verification
• 16.0 Document Control, Review and Continuous Improvement

Legislation & References

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and corresponding state and territory WHS Acts
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (Cth) – Hazardous chemicals and hazardous atmospheres
• Safe Work Australia – Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of hazardous chemicals in the workplace
• Safe Work Australia – Model Code of Practice: Managing the risk of hazardous atmospheres
• AS/NZS 1596: The storage and handling of LP Gas
• AS 4332: The storage and handling of gases in cylinders
• AS/NZS 60079 (series): Explosive atmospheres – Electrical equipment for hazardous areas
• AS 1940: The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids (context for mixed hazardous storage)
• AS/NZS 3000: Electrical installations (Wiring Rules) – requirements around hazardous areas and ignition sources