How to safely transport gas cylinders

The preferred method of transporting gas cylinders is to let a professional gas transport company handle it, but sometimes that may not be an option. In these cases, you need to know how to properly do it yourself.

Basic requirements

These requirements do not apply to the private transport of LPG for personal or domestic use, but the following basic requirements should be observed.

▸ The vehicle used to transport the gas cylinders should be suitable for the task, have sufficient power and be in good condition.

▸ The vehicle should be allowed to transport gas cylinders in an upright position.

▸ The vehicle is kept open (preferred) or has adequate ventilation.

▸ Try to limit the number of cylinders you transport.

▸ Ensure that cylinder contents are clearly labeled.

▸ Ensure that the cylinder valve is in the fully closed position.

▸ Use valve protection caps before moving.

▸ The pressure-reducing device must be connected to the cylinder’s vapor space.

▸ Use a cylinder trolley or other mechanical lifting device to move the cylinder to the vehicle.

▸ Never drop cylinders or allow items to hit them.

▸ Prefer open-top vehicles or trailers.

▸ Always prefer to transport cylinders in an upright position.

▸ Cylinders should only be placed on a flat floor or platform.

▸ If cylinders are secured on pallets, the pallets must be capable of transporting 3,500 pounds each and the cylinders must be secured with webbing rated at 10,000 pounds.

▸ Secure gas cylinders in a vehicle or trailer to prevent movement during transport. Cylinders should not move relative to each other or the support structure.

▸ When transporting hydrogen or cryogenic liquid cylinders, the vehicle must have an open body and be capable of holding the cylinders upright when subjected to 2g of acceleration, and the vehicle must not enter a tunnel.

▸ Apparatus may be carried as long as the apparatus cannot be operated while in the vehicle and its transport does not present a risk of fire. Apparatus in boxes or packages will meet this requirement.

▸ Any vehicle transporting gas cylinders must also carry the following items.

Shipping documents. Also known as a hazard manifest, pick list, waybill, or daily travel form. They contain information about the type, size and quantity of hazardous materials. They must always be within the driver’s reach.