LPG gas is basically the mixture
of propane and butane, and it is odorless in its natural state. The smell that
we notice when there is a leak is actually the stench of an entirely different
agent, called Ethyl Mercaptan. This
substance is added to the gas when it leaves the main storage terminals.
But if it smells so bad, why is it added?
As we
all know, LPG is very dangerous, because if it leaks, it can cause terrible
fires and devastating explosions. To avoid this, Ethyl Mercaptan is added to
the gas, which possesses that strong odor
of rotten cabbages. The smell
helps us detect when there is a leak, which actually makes a lot of sense from
a safety and security perspective.
PROPERTIES:
Chemical
Formula: C2H5SH
Appearance:
Colorless liquid
Density: 0.816 g cm-3
Boiling
point: 35℃
The density of atmospheric air is 1 g cm-3. As the ethyl mercaptan density is
less than the density of atmospheric air, it will float below the air. So, it
is easy to smell and to identify the leakage of LPG.
PREVENTIVE ACTIONS:
In the event of a gas leak or
suspected leak,
1.
Stop the gas flow at
the container
2.
Turn off all naked
flames and eliminate all sources of ignition BUT do not turn electrical
switches on or off.
3.
If leak is indoors,
open all windows and doors, to disperse the gas.
4.
In the case of
cylinders, disconnect the cylinder and move it outdoors to an open area.
5.
If the leak cannot
be stopped or a significant leak has occurred, evacuate the premises.
6.
Contact your
installer and contact the 24 hour gas emergency service at 0414506688
In the event of fire,
- Contact the fire brigade (dial
999) and advise them that an LPG container is on the premises.
- Turn off the gas supply at the
LPG container if it is safe and practical to do so.
- Evacuate the building
This contains Informative one.
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