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CODE OF PRACTICE

FOR THE STORAGE OF

LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS

AT FIXED INSTALLATIONS

LONDON

HER MAJESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE

197 I
SBN 11 340365 8
 F O R E\\O R D

THIIiI Code providc3 J general guide to ...are practice In 3toring and handling
liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at fixed storage Inslallalions where tanks
are filled on site. I t has been prepared primarily as a gUIde for any bodies
which may be given the task of enforcing safely reqUIrements at these
installations. I1 IS, howc\cr. recogm<;ed that each ,a\e must be con!.ldercd
on liS merits. and pcclal ClrcumStances may ncccssllate \3riallons of the
requirements here recommended 11 1\ nOI mtended to preclude the use of
alternative designs. materials and methods where these provide eqUivalent
standards of safety. Further 11 I ') nOl the mtentlon that the recommenda
tions of the Code :,hould be applied rigidly to e'l(151111g pi cmises, where for a
variety of reasons It may not be practicable to comply with them. Only
such alterallons as 3re considered t o be reasonable, or essential for the
public safety should be made.

The Code IS divided mto four parts; Part I gl\oe"i general information on
LPG; Part 2 covers the larger storage facilities at refinenes. bulk plants for
distribution of LPG and gas work"i: Part 3 coven. the maller torage
facilities at industnal. commercial and domestic premises. but if the storage
at these premiSes IS large reference IS made to Part 2 of the Code; Part 4
gl\es recommendallons for safe operating pracllce. Installations are
co\oered only up to the mlet of first stage line prure reduction.

The design and construction of plant and eqUipment for the storage and
handllOg of LPG in bulk should be carned oul only by experienced people.
Personnel responsible for operations should understand the physical
characteristics of the products and should be trained 10 the use of the LPG
eqUipment and the action to be taken In an emergency. Attention is dra\\'T1
t o the recommendallons 10 the Code on commiSSIOning ne\\ facllllles. on
the care necesary In draining water or dra\\lng samples from tanks and on
product transfer operations.

The Code does nOI include detailed guidance on the design. construction
and maintenance of LPG eqUipment. For such gUidance reference should
be made 10 the Codes of Pracllce lI\ted 10 AppendIx A .

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 COI,TENTS

PART I GENERAL Poge

1.1 LIQUUIED PETROLEUM GAS (LPG) I
1.2 CIIARACTERISTICS A'ID HAZARDS I

PART 2 STORAGE AT REFINIoRIES AND BULK PLANTS

2.1 scoPr 2

2.2 STORAGE TAt-;K LOCATION AND SAfETY DISTA'ICES 2

2.2.1 Pressure Storage 2
2.2.2 Low Pressure Refngerated SlOrage 5

2.3 PRI:.SSURE STORAGE 6

2.3.1 Design 6
2.3.2 Tank Fillings 6
2.3.3 Tank Connections 7
2.3.4 Pressure Relief 7
2.3.5 Capacity of Relief Valves 7
2.3.6 Relief Valve InformalIon 7
2.3 7 Relief Valve Inslailallon 7
2.3.8 Shut-off Valves and Emergency Shut-off Val"cs 8
2.3.9 Filling Capacity 8
2.3.10 Insulation and Heating of Valves 9
2.3.11 Protection Against Corrosion 9
2.3.12 Maimcnance 9
2.3.13 Marking of Tanks 9

2.4 LOW PRESSURE REFRIGERATED STORAGE 10

2.4, I Scope 10
2.4.2 Design 10
2.4.3 LIquid Level 10
2.4.4 Capacity of Refrigeration System 10
2.4 S Tank Fillings 10
2.4.6 Pressure/Vacuum Relief 10
2.4.7 Insulation II
2.4.8 Protection Against Corrosion 11
2.4.9 Marking or Tanks II

2.5 PIPING, VALVES AND fiTTINGS 11

2.05.1 PIPing 11
2.05.2 Materials 12
2.5.3 Pipe Joints 12
2.5.4 Valves 12

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 Page
2.5.5 Thermal Prc\<iure Relief 11
2.5.6 In.,tallauon and TC!ltmg 12
2.5.7 Imulation 13
2.5.8 Ho')c., 13
2.5.9 Arllculalcd Pipe Connections 13

2.6 SUI'PORTS tOR TANKS AND PIPING 13

2.6.1 Tank Support!> I3
2.6.2 PIPC Supporh 14

2.7 LOADI'G AND UNLOADING .... CILITIS 14

2.7.1 Pumps 14
2 7.2 Compressors 14
2.7.3 Meters 14
2.7.4 Tram.rcr Systems 14
2.7,5 Protection 15

2.8 \ APQRISERS 15
2.8. I General 15
2 8.2 Construction 16
2 8.3 Prcs\ure Rchcf 16
2.8 4 Liquid Control 17
2.8.5 Heat Inpul Control 17
2.8.6 Maintenance I7

2.9 lLECTRICAL 17
2.9.1 Area Clas'i.,k3tion 17
2.9.2 Electrical Apparatus, Earthmg and Bondmg 17

2.10 nRE PROTECTIO' 19

2.10.1 General 19
2 10.2 Commumcallons 19
2,10.3 Waler Supply 19
2.10.4 FirI-Ald Fire EXllngulshers 19
2.10.5 Access 20
2.10.6 Isol all Og Valves 20
2.10.7 Drains and Blow-otT Lines 20
2.10.8 Grass and Weed Removal 20
2.10.9 Warning Signs 20

PART 3 INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL AND DOMESTIC

BULK STORAGE
3.1 seo!'1:. 20

3.2 STORA(.I TANK LOCATION AND SAn.IT DISTANCES 20

3.2.1 Location and Spacing 20
3.2.2 Spillage 22
3.2.3 PrOlCClion 23

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 Page
3.3 STORAG TA ..... ... S
23
3.3.1 Delgn 23
3.3.2 Filtlng' 24
3.3.3 Pressure Relief 24
3.3.4 Capacity of Relief Valves 24
3.3.5 Relief Valve Information 24
3.3.6 Rellcf Valve In">tallatlon 24
3.3.7 Shut-off Valves and Emergency Shut-off Valves 25
3.3.8 Filling Capacity 26
3.3 9 Tank SUPPOrlS 26
3.3.10 ProleCllon Against Corrosion 27
3 3.11 Insta llation of Underground Tanks 27
3.3.12 M:lIntenance 27
3.3.13 Marking of Tanks 27

3.4 r'IPING, VALVES AND IITTINGS 27

3.4.1 Matenals 27
3.4.2 Pipe Jomts 28
3.4.3 Valves 28
3.4.4 Thermal Pressure Relief 28
3.4.5 Installation and Testing 28
3.4.6 Hose\ 29

3.5 PUMPS, COO,1PRESSORS AND METERS 29

3.5.1 Pumps 29
3.5.2 Compressors 29
3.5.3 Metero; 29
3.5.4 ProteCllon 29

3.6 VAPORISERS 29
3.6.1 General 29
3.6.2 Con,,>truction 3J
3.6.3 Pressure Relief 3J
3.6.4 Liquid Control 3J
3.6.5 Heat Input Control 3J
3.6.6 Maintenance 3J

3.7 I:L[CTRICAL J2
3.7.1 Area Classification 32
3.7.2 Eleclrlcal Apparatus, Earthing and Bonding J2

3.8 rtRE PROTECTION J2

3.8.1 General 32
3.8.2 Water Supply J2
3.8.3 First-Aid Fire Extinguishers 34
3.8 4 Access 34
3.8.5 Isolaung Valves 34
3.8 6 Gra">s and Weed Removal 34
3.8.7 Warnmg Signs 34
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 Page
PART 4 OPERATIONS

4.1 TRAINING 34
4_2 SFGREGATION OF PRODUCTS 35
4.3 PURGIr-.:G AND FILLING TANKS AND SYSTEMS 35
4.4 DRAINING OF TANKS 36
4.5 PRODUCT TRANSFERS 36
4.6 ATTENDANCE DURING OPERATIONS 37
4.7 At' I ION IN EMERGENCY 37
4.8 LlGHTlf'o.;G STORAGE AND OPERATING AREAS 37

TABLES

Table 2_2.1 Location and Spacmg for Pressure SlOrage at

Refineries and Bulk Plants 3
Table 2.2.2 Location and Spacing for Low Pressure Refrigerated
Storage 5
Table 2.8.1 (i) Safety Distances between Vaporisers and Storage
Tanks 16
Table 2.8.1 (ii) Safety Distances between Vaporisers and BUil dings 16

Table 2.9.1 C lassl fical ion of Dangerous Areas 18

Table 3.2.1 Location and Spacing for Tanks for lnduslrial,
Commercial and Domestic Bulk: Storage 21
Table 3.6.1 (i) Safety Distances between Vaporisers and Storage
Tanks 30

Table 3.6.1 (11) Safety Dista nces between Vaporisers and BlIildings 30
Table 3.7.1 Classification of Dangerous Areas 33

APPENDICES
Appendix A References 38
Appendix B Reference Temperatures 39

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PART I GE:\ERAL

I I LlQUEHED PETROLE U M GAS (LPG)

Q. "Liquefied Petroleum Gno;' or 'LPG' is a generic term, used 10 dc')cnbe

liquefiable gase consi!Joung predommantly ofC] .tnd C" hydrocarbons.

h. Thc hydrocarbon... C\I.,t a... ga')o at normal almophenc temperatures

and presure but the)' can be liquefied under moderate pressure. I f the pres
'iure is sub!Jcqucmly relea\ed. the hydrocarbons ;lgnm become gaseous.

c. As liquids they occupy only about l/no1h oflhe .,pace they would need If
they were stored as gases. From a commerCial !>Ollll of view It IS therefore
more practicable to store and convey the hydrocarbons as liquid'i than as
gae.

d, The 1\\ 0 liquefied petroleum gases I n gener.1I ..e

are kno,",n as 'Com
u
nerclal Butane' and 'Commerclal Propane" The characterlstlc and com
posllion of thc3c products arc sct OUI In SS 4250'.

(>.LPG may be slorcd a'i n liqUid eITHER at amblcllI lcmpcralurc under

moderate pressure OR In a refrigerated condulon at a lower pressure. If
the temperature of storage IS !.ufficlcntiy low. the LPG may be ...tored at
substantlall) atmospherit: pres\ure.

f At 15 C commercial butanc has a vapour pre..,ure of about 25 psig and

commercial propane has a vapour pressure of about 105 psig.

1.2 CHARACTE R I STICS AND HAZARDS

a. LPG I!. colourless. and II'. ..... elght as a liquid 1\ onl) just over half that of
an equivalent volume of watcr,

b. LPG vapour IS denser than air. commercial butane being about I\\ICC as
heavy a) air and commcrclal propane about onc ,lIld a half time... as heavy
33 air. Because of this. the vapour may flow along the ground 'lIld Into
drall1s, Sinking to the lowc3t IcvcI of the )urrOundlngs. In suit air condi
tions any accumulallon of vapour will lake limc to disperse.

c. When ml\cd WIth air 111 ccrtall1 proportlon\, LPG form) an Inflammable
mixture. The inflammable range extend.:. bet\.\ccn approxlmatcl} 200 of the
vapour In air 31 113 lower bmlt and approximately 10"'", oflhe vapour III air
at 11... upper Itmlt. Outside thl) range. any mixture 1\ clther too weak or too
rich to propagate flame. Within the range there I.., the risk of explo\ion.
Small quanlltles of the liquefied gas can give rise to large volume... of
vapour/air ml;c.ture and thus cause considerable hazard. A SUitable. prop
erly calibrated exploslmeter mOl} be used for tc\ung the conccnlrallon of
LPG m air. On no account should a naked flame be ued to dclet:1 a leak.

I
 d. Because or the characteristics outlined in Clauses 1.2b. and 1.2c. any
vapour/air mixture arising rrom leakage or other cause may become
Ignited some distance rrom the point or escape, and the flame may travel
back 10 the onglnal source of leakage.
e. LPG vapour is slightly anaethetic and may also cause suffocation if
present in umcienlly high concentrations.
f. LPG is normally odorised before dltnbution, by the addition of an
odorant such as ethyl mercaptan or dimethyl sulphide, enabling detection
b} smell of Ihe ga:) at concentrations down 10 one fifth of the lower limit of
mflammabllity (i.e. approximately 0 4% of the gas in air). However, in
some cases where, for example, the odorising mllerial mlY be harmful to a
process or does not serve any useful purpose as a warning agent, the LPG
is not odorised.
g. Esc.,pe of LPG may be noticeable otherwise than by smelt. When the
liquid evaporates, the cooling effect on the surrounding air causes conden
sation and even freezing of water vapour in the air. This may show itself as
frost at the point of escape and thus make it easier to detect an escape of
LPG.
h. OWing to its rapid vaporisation and consequent lowering of tempera
ture, LPG can cause severe frost burns if brought into contact with the
skin. Protective clolhing such as gloves and goggles should be worn if
exposure to this hazard is likely to occur.
i. A container which has held LPG and is 'empty' may SIill contain LPG
in vapour form and is potentially dangerous. In this state the intern2.1
pressure is approximately atmospheric and if a valve is leaking or left open,
air an diffuse into the contamer, forming an inflammable mixture and
creating a risk of explosion while LPG can be displaced to the atmosphere.

PART 2 STORAGE AT REFINERIES A N D BULK PLANTS

2.1 SCOPE
2.1.1 This Part of the Code covers LPG storage installations at refineries, bulk
plants for distribution of LPG and gas works. Where the total LPG
storage at a gas works does not exceed 30,000 gallons waler capacity the
recommendations of Part 3 should be followed. Part 3 covers storage at
industrial, commercial or domestic premises, unless storage at these
premises involves tanks of individual capacity greater than 30.000 gallons
water capacity or group storage greater than 100,000 gallons water capacity,
when the recommendations of Part 2 should be followed.

2.2 STORAGE TANK LOCATION AND SAFETY DISTANCES

2.2.1 Pressure storage
o. Location and :.pacing
1. The djstanc given in Table 2.2.1 are minimum recommendations for
aboveground tanks and refer to the horizontal distance in plan be
tween the nearest point on the storage tank and the nearest poim of a

2
 specified feature (e.g an adjacent storag'! tank. building, boundary).
The distances are for both spherical and cylindncal tanks.

11. Wi th the proviion of radiation walls or adquate fixed water spray

systems, separation di<;tances may be reduced but specialist advice
should be obtained.

Table 2.2.1

Location and spacing for pressure storage at refineries and bulk plants

Factor Recommendations for LPG stored in pressure tanks

J. Between LPG pressure Onc quarter of the sum of the diameters of the two
storage tanks adjacent lanl.s. but not less than 5 rt
--

2. To tanks contamlng 50 rt fro m the top of the bund surrounding tanks

Inflammable liquids contaming inflammable liquids with a flash-pomt
with a nash-point belo" 150 F
below 150 F

3. To low pressure refrig-
crated LPG tanks
One dIameter of the largest low pressure refngerated
storage tank. but not less than 100 fl. The pressure
storage tank should be not less than 50 re from the
top of the bund surroundmg the refngerated storage
tanl.

4. To process unit. office Water capacity of MaXimum total SeparatIOn

bUilding, workshop, largest single tank water capacity dIstance
laboratory. ""rehouse, m a group of all tanks in a In fect
boundaf). busy mternal group
road carrYing uncon-
trolled tramc. or any Gallons Gallons
fixed source of IgnitIon Over 250-500 1500 10
O\er 500-2000 6000 25
Olicr 2000-30.000 100.000 50
O\er 30,000-75,000 225.000 75
O,er 75,000 500.000 100

b. Spi ll age
t. The provision of conventional bunds (see Clause 2.2.2h. around LPG
pressure storage tanks deSigned and constructed tn accordance with
Clause 2.3.1 is not reqUIred (but sce Clause 2.2.lb.iii for separation
kerbs).

11. The ground beneath tanks should either be concreted or compacted.

and so sloped as to:
o. prevent the ae-cumulatlon of any liquid beneath them; and
h. ensure a flow away from the tanks and any important areas.

3
.Voln. I Where all thc connection... of Ihe ve')el are groupell at one end
the above pro'o';,)lons need only be requIred beneath the con
!lcction..,.
2. Pro'o'l<;lon ...hould also be made for a no.... away from the tanks
and any important areas of coolmg water applied under fire
conlllt lon.

Ill. Separation kerb'), 10\\ to avoid ga!) traps. with a ma,\lmum height of
2 f, may be reqUired to dIrect plllage to suitable places away from the
tank... and other Important areas.
IV. To prevent the formlllg of gas pockets, which might affect the safety
of the timk, the \'icinIlY of LPG storage tanks should be free of pits
and depres'ilom, other than those nccc!)sarlly required for the contaLn
men! of ",plllage.
v. LPG 'itorage tanks should be installed well away from tanks contain
Ing liquid oxygen or other hazardous substances and III such cases
speciah'it ad\u.:e should be obtamed on spacing. In any case, no
pressure toragc lank for LPG should be located In any bund where
there ... any permanent source of heat (c.g. steam mams) or within the
bunded enclo<.ure of:
Q. a tank cOlltainlllg an mflammable liquid with a flashpoint below
150 F;
h. a !;.Ink contalnlllg liqUid oxygen or any other hazardous sub
stance;
c. lov,,-pressure refrigerated LPG tanks:
d. any healed storage tank (e.g. fuel oil tank).

c. Lay-out of tank..
The lay-oul and grouplllg of tanks, as disllnct from spacing, should
recei"e careful com.lderauon so as to ensure accessibility for fire-fighting
and the aVOidance of spIllage from onc tank flowing towards any othcr
tank or towards a nearby Imporlant area. The number of storage lanh In
one group \hould not e,ceed 6, !lubject to the ma-..;imum total capaClly of
a group given III Table 2.2.1. Any tank III one group should be at least 25
ft frolll an) tank III another group unle...s a radiation wall is erected
bcl\\een the group').

tI. Fencing
To prevent trespa...<;lIlg or tampering. the area whIch includes tanks,
pumping cQulpmenl and loading and unloading facitities should be
endo\cd by an IIldu<;lrial type fence at least 6 fl hIgh at a distance of not
le..... than 5 fl from the Installation unless the fence is a boundary fence,
when the dIstance... given In Table 2.2.1 will apply. Where necessary.
fence... should have <lt least t\\O meal1') of e-..;it, not adjacent to onc another.
Gate... should open outwards, should not te self locking, and should
provide ea...y mean') of escapc from \\rithm.
4
2.2.2

a Locallon and Spa':lng

The di')lam;e; gl\en III Table 22_2 arc minimum rec:ommendJlion'lo and
refcr to the hon/onlal dbtanl'C 10 plan bet",een the ne<lre,t pOint on the
..torage tank and the neare'il pOlOt of a spcr.:lfied feature (e_g an adJJcent
Slor:lge tank. bUIlding, boundary ).

TlIblc 2.2.2

Location and spacing for la! prsurc refrigerated ;Iorage

Factor Recommendations for I o.... Pressure Refrigerated

LllG Storage

Bct.... een refrigerated One half of the sum of the diameters of the t.... o
I PG storage tanks adJacent tan"s

1. To lan"s containing The diameter of Ihe largest refngerated storage tank

mOammablc liqUids but not less than 100 r,
with a Oashpolnl
below 150 r

3. To pressure slorage The diameter or the largcst rerngerated storage tank

tanks but not less th an 100 n The pressure storage tan"'
should be not less than SO ft from Ihe lOp of Ihe
bund surrounding the rerrlgerated storage tan"

4. To process unit, offii.:e 150 feel

building, ",or""hop,
laboratory, .... arehouse.
boundaT). busy Internal
road carrying uncon-
trolled traffic. or an)
fh.ed source of Igmtlon

h. Bund or Impounding Basin

I. A bund should be prOVided around all 10 .... pre!.surc lanh containing
refrigera ted LPG. The lank\ \houtd be completely surrounded by the
bund, unlc)) Ihe topography of the area I.. .. uch, either naturally or by
con"tructlon. Ihal "plllag... can be dlre(.:lcd qUldl)' and safely. by
gravity dramage and dl\er';,lon ....all.. I f reqUIred. to a depre ... .. lon or Im
pounding ba.. m localed ""lIhm the boundary of the plant. Bunds
,hou Id be deSigned 10 be of ..ufliclent ..I rcngl h to WII h,land I he pre')sure
10 which they would be s ubjec te d If the volume \...lthm the bunded en
clm.ure ""ere filled .... lIh ....aler
. The area ....llhm Ihe bund, dcprc!.';,ton or
Impoundmg ba...m .. hould be I ..olated from any oUblde dramage s)":,lem
by a valve. normally closed unless the area IS bcmg drained of waler
under coni rolled condllion<;,.
11. Where only- onc lank i; .... lIhm the bund, lhe nel capaclly ofthe bunded
cnclo)urc. mcludulg thc carmcllY of any depre:,slon or Impounding
ba')m, hollld be nOI lcs!. Ihan 75 per cenl of the lank capacity. Where

5
 more than onc tank is within the main enclosure, intermediate bunds
should be provided, so as to give an enclosure around each tank of 50
per cent of the capacity of that tank, and the minimum effective
capacity of the mam enclosure, includmg any depression or Impound-
1I1g basin, should be 100 per cent of the capacity of the largest tank,
nJter nllowing for the volume of the enclosure occupied by the re.
maming tanks. It is desirable for the required capacity to be provided
by bunds not exceedmg an average height of 6 ft as measured from the
outside ground level.
Ill. The number of storage tanks within a main enclosure should not
exceed three.
IV. The area within the bund should be graded to levels which ensure Ihat
any spillage has a preferential flow away from the tank.
v. No tanks other than low pressure tanks for refrigerated LPG should
be \\lIhm the bund.

c. Lay-out of Tanks
The lay-out and grouping of tanks, as distinct from spacing, should receive
careful consideration so as to ensure accessibility for fire fighting.

2.3 PRESSURE STORAGE

2.3.1 Dco:;ign
u. Storage tanks should be designed, fabricated and tested in accordance
With a recogOlsed pressure vessel code for static chemical plant.

b. The deign pressure of the tank should be not less than the vapour
pressure of the actual LPG to be stored, at the highest temperature that
the contents of the tank will reach in service (see Appendix B).
Nore: The vapour pressure is dependent on the surface temperature of the
Contents (cr. Clause 2.3.9)

c. Careful con:,ideration should be given to the materials used for con

strucllon. bearing in mind the minimum temperature that the material of
the tank wilt reach in service. In the case of smaller tanks with high draw
off rates, thiS may be below the minimum ambient temperature.

d. Slorage tanks for refrigerated pressure storage should be designed in

accordance with the low temperature requirements of the Code referred 10
in Clause 2.3.lu. Storage tanks for low pressure refrigerated SlOrage of
LPG should be designed in accordance with Section 2.4 of this Code.

e. For refrigerated pressure SlOrage, the capacity of the refrigeration

system or the means of vapour dispo:,al should be adequate to maintain
the LPG in the lank at a temperature such that its vapour pressure is below
the presure setting of the relief valves on the tank..

2.3.2 Tank fWings

a. Each tank should be provided wilh at least one each of the following
fitllngs, all of which should be suitable for use with the LPG at a pressure

I
 not le') than the de')lgn pre')')urc of the tank to which they arc filled and
for temperatures appropriate to the charactenstlcs of the LPG and
worio..l n8 condlllons:
I. Pres:,ure rehef valve connected directly 10 the vapour space.
11 Drain, or other means of remO\lOg the liquid conlents.
Ill. Conlen!'. gauge or ma"mlUm le\'el Inou.:ator.
IV, Pre')')urc gauge connected to Ihe vapour c;pace.
v. Where a maximum level indicator is not filted, means of meac;unng the
temperature of Ihe conlenl\ of the tank

b. Since LPG IS non-corrOSi\C,1I normall} unnece<,c;ar} to subJccI small

h

lanb 10 mternal e"ammatlon; manholes and hand-holes are nOI therfore

normally reqUired. HO\H\er, manholes or hand-holes should be provided
on tank!:. e,ceedlng 1100 gallon'!> "ater capaclt), 10 facilitate flCriodlc
examination.

2.3.3 Tank connections

Tank connections should be deSIgned and attached to the tank m accor
dance with the requirements of the Code referred to III Clause 2.3.10.

2.3.4 Pressure rel ief

The reqUirements for pressure rehef In the Code referred to In Clause
2.3.10. should be follo\\.cd. Rellef vahe!l should be direct spnngloaded or
pi lot-opera led.

2.3.5 Capacity or relier lahes

The full now capacity of pressure rehef valves should be sufficient 10 pro
lecl the lank under fire exposure conditions.

2.3.6 Relief vaht inrormation

Every rellef valve should incorporate permanent markings as follows :
Manufacturer's Idenllfication. IIlcludmg manufacturer's name and
calalogue or type number.
Slart 10 discharge pressure
Certified capacity i n terms of a1r a t 60 F (15'6 C) and 147 psia.

2.3.7 Relief lahe installation

a. In the case of multiple safety rehef valvc'!>, If provision is madc to isolale
any one rchef valve for testing or servicing. it !>hould be ensured that the
remaining relief \alves connected 10 the tank provide the full capacity
required by Clause 2.3.5. In the ca<,e of tank\ fitted with single relief valves,
provision may be made for their remova l for testing or !>ervicing by Ihe uc;e
of an automatic shut-off valve, provided this valve is retained In the fully
open posItion by the presence of the relief valve and will close when Ihe
rehef valve I rcmoled. In carr)lO& out ItHS procedure. I t is es!tential lhat
the storage vessel IS nOI left unprotected and a replacement relief valve
should be ImmedIately filled.

7
 h. for tJn... over 1100 gallon water capaclt), the relief vahe should be
liued with "cnt pipe... adequately sUJ1Poned and haVing oUllet:) at leat 6 rt
'lbove the tClp of the tank to,hlch Ihey arc fitted and at least 1 0 rt above
ground le\el. Vent plpC,> ..hould be dC'>lgned 10 allow for drainage of water
and 10 cmure thill, III the ca...e of Ignition of discharging product<;, flame
111lplllgcment on the tan!.., or on any adjaccnt tank, pipmg or equipment
., avoided Vent pipe,> rna) be prO\ H.led \vllh loo<;e-filllng ram caps. In the
c..he of '>mallcr lank,> filled .....nh valve protecting I:overs, a venl or vent!)
...ufficlcnt to pcrmll thc free d ....chargc of LPG rrom [he relier valve or from
an) proteCllon cap fittcd to 11 should be prO\ Idcd. The vent or vent" should
be In such a position as not to sprcad the LPG over the lank shell.

2.3.8 Shut-ofT \ ah cs and emergency 'ihut-olf \-ahcs

fI. All liquid and vapour connection'> on tank-.. wllh the exception of
tho,>c for relief valve,> (see Clau<;e 2.3.70.), plugged openings, and Ihose
'1,-'here the connectIOn through the tank shell is not greater than No 54
!Horse dnll "'Ie should have '>hut-off vahes located a<:. clo'ie to the tank as
pracllcable. Pre....ure
.. gauge mounting connection<; should be protecled
Internall) by a tapping reduced JIl[crnally to a bleed hole not largcr than a
No 54 morse drill size or b) a suilable excess flow valve.

b. Emergency ...hut-off \al",,:,> (c.g_ an exce\... 00\\ val1,-c, an automatically

opcrn[cd valve or a remotely comroJled \ahe) should bc fitted 10 liquid
connet.:llons on tank... (except dramage and samplmg connections or
...mall diameter).

c. Dram connection,> should be pro\ Ided ''',Ih a hu[-off vahc m accoru

ance With Clau,>e 2.3.80., and should preferably be nOI more than 2 m.
11011111131 Size. ThiS ,hut-on \ah'e should be provided with a length or
piping tenlllnat1l1 ",lIh a second shut-off valve, preferably nOI more than
I m. nommal <'izc. The first \'ahe ,>hould be a qUlc!.. shut-off t}PC: the
second \ahe '>hould be a throllllOg t)pe.
The length or plpmg bct\\een Ihe \ah"es hould be such that the risk of
'iimultancous ob'ilrucllon of both vahes by the rreezing of any waler
prc!)cnt In the LPG IS IllminllSed. A <;ufficlent length or piping should be
provided do..... nstream or the ,>ccond valve 10 ensure that dIscharge Will
not tal..e place beneath [he tanl... The second vahe and the plpm should
be adequately '>upport;!d and secured to prc\cnt mechanical damage or
breakage b) Jet rorec\ Both \alves on the drain \}'stcm should have a
means or actu,ltlon \hlCh cannot be readily removed or moved from the
closed POSI[lon except by Intentional operation.

d. The additional pipc\\ork and manual valve called for by Clause 2.3.8c.
may be fit ted at the [lllle of draI nmg pro\ Ided that the drain valve required
by Cia u,>e 2.3.8c. I protected by an emergency '>hut-ofT valve (c.g. an excess
now \alve, an automatlcalty operntcd valve or a remotel) controlled
va[\c) fitted uptreal11.

2.3.9 filling capacil)

The maXllllUm quantity or LPG which hould be filled into any lank
'>llOUld be ....ur.;h that the wnl.. \\ III become no morc than 97 0 liquid futl due

8
 to c"panion of the content.) \Ith ne of temperature 10 the highct
temperature \hjch the content" \\111 reach In senlce* (See Appendl\ B).
Vole: The volume of the product b depcndent on the bulk mean temrcra.
ture of the COntents (cr. Clause 2.3.lb.)

2.3.10 In.sulation and heating of \'ahes

a. In')ulatlon. when prmided on refrigerated pre<;llre tank... <;hould
l. wllh'.ltand, together with the cladding. dIrect Impingement from ho')e
stream :
11. be Impen IOUS. eHher by a cellular con!)truction or the provi')ion of an
efficient vapour barrier, 10 the Ingres<; of "...ater vapour:
Ill. be uftklently robust so that mlllor Illcchalllcal damage \dl nOI
sigOlficantl) ImpaIr the mulatlon:
IV. be protected from. Or be resllant to, firc.

b. In')ulatlon. ::.team heaung or othcr mean hould be u!>ed to prevent

iCing of valvc or other fittings If product quahty, operating techniques
and/or ambIent tcmperatures are favourable to ice formation.

2.3.!! Protection against corrosion

Storage tanks and thclr supports 'i.hould be adcquatel) protected agamst
corrosion. by Pdlllong or other means.

NOle: Storage tanks should be finish palntcd III light colour m order to
mcreasc rcflectlon from them and minimise temperature rise of
their contents.

2.3.12 Maintenance
All tanks should be examined at regular interval:. and the date of the last
examination markcd on the tank.

2.3.13 Marking of tanks

Each preS'iure 'ilorage lank should be con,picuouly and permanently
marked to mclude the folio\\'Ing.

o. The pre'i!oure vesel code to \\, hlCh 11 is made.

b. The manufacturer"'i name and 'ierral number.
c. The water capacIty In gallons. lilrc\ or cubIC metres.

d. The maximum safe workmg pres<;ure.

e. In the ease or a refngeratcd pre'ture tank. the minimum temperature
for which the tank IS designed.

f The year in which the lank was made.

* The filling rallo should be calculated to allow a guaranteed free space of 30:0 at
these reference temperatures. after allo\\ancc for the degree of uncenalnty In the
liqUid density data. Ho,,"e\er. to allow for liqUids of hIgh coefficient of expansion.
the filling ratio should In no case gl \l e nse 10 a liqUid full condlllon at a tempera
lure less than S deg. C abo...e the filling rallO reference temperature.

9
2.4 LO" PRESSURE R E F R I G E RATED STORAGE
2.4 I Scope
a, Thic; section of the Code applies to large to\\ pre,:)sure welded steel tanks
for the bulk \torage of LPG In a refngerated <;talc.

b. This !.ccllon doe\ not apply to pressure \anks for storage of refrigerated
LPG Such tanks hould be designed and constructed In accordance with
Secllon 2.3.

2.4.2 Design
a Tanks for the ..terage of LPG In a refrigerated state and all their fittin
..hould be designed. con.,tructed and te<;led In accordance ",l1h a recogmsed
standard for large welded low presure storage (anks for refrigerated
products.

b. The refrigeration system or other sUitable methods of vapour disposal

should be de:.igned 10 mamtain the LPG at a temperature such that its
vapour pressure does not exceed the deSign pressure of the tank.

c Materiab should be <ielected for their nOlch ductility at design metal

temperatures. and should be In accordance "lth matenals listed I n the
standard referred to in Clause 2.4.2a.

2.4.3 Liquid Ic\cl

The filling level should be such that the tank will not be fuil orliquid at the
cquilibrium temperature of the product for the pressure at which the relief
valves are set to operatc. Tlm means In practice that the filling level will be
sufficiently below the curb angle to allow for liqUid expansion In, for
example, the event of a fire Incident or the failure of the refrigeration
system.

2.4 4 Capacity of refrigeration system

The refrigeration sy..,tem should be of a capacity adequate to deal with
normal bOlIofT plus maximum tank filling rate.

2.4.5 Tank fitting..

Each tank should be provided with a pressure and vacuum relief system
and a content.., gauge.

2.4.6 Pressure. \acuum relief

Pre!lo!'>ure and vacuum relief valves should be filled to protect the lank
(I.

under all operatlllg conditions. Emergency \ellllng should be provided 10

protect Ihe tank under fire expO!loure conditions. This may be provided by
means of a weak shell-to-roof seam.

b. Where the pressure relief valves discharge to the vent collecting system
of a Hare, additional relieving devices, set atslightly higher pressure,
n

capable of handling the towl venting reqUirement, may be provided dis

charging directly to atmosphere.

10
 c. Care must be taken to ellmlOate all liquid trap 10 "ent lines.

d. Precautions should be taken to counter the effect of Icing o n relief

valves.

e. Relief valves discharging directly to the atmmphere should be designed

and l O..talled so that 10 the event of IglUtlOn of dlscharglOg vapour, Ramc
impmgement on the tank 0. liS equipment will be avoided.

2.4.7 Insulation

I nsulation should be :
o. c;tpable of withstanding, along with Its claddmg. direct Impingement
from hose streams;

b. ImperviOus, either by a cellular construction or the provision of an

effiCient vapour barner, to the Ingress of water vapour;

c.sufficiently robust so that mmor mechanical damage will not s i gnific

antly Impair the Insulallon;

d. be protected from. or be resistant to, fire.

2.4.8 Protection against corrosion

Tanks and their fittmg.. should be adequately protected agamst corrosion.

2.4.9 Mar ki ng of tanks

Each refrigerated storage tank should be idenufbd by the attachment of
a name plate which should Indicate the following mformatlon:
a. The manufacturers name and serial number.

b. The maximum level to which the tank may be filled with LPG.

c. The liquid volume of the tank when filled With LPG to the maximum
level.

d. The maximum deSign pressure.

e. The mlOimum temperature for which the tank is designed.

f The maximum level 10 which the lank may be filled with water for test
purposes.

g. The year III which con\tructed and tested.

2.5 PIPI G , VALVES AND FITTI GS

2.S.1 Piping
a. Piping systems should conform to the provisions of a recognised piping
code.

b. Piping for low temperature service should conform to {he relevant low
temperature provisions of the code referred 10 in Clause 2.S.la.

II
2.5.2 I\laterial..

o. A l l materials Including non-metallic parts for valvc, seal, gJ<;kets and

dli.lphragm!-. hould be reI'!>talll to the action of LPG under [he service
condition, to \\'hlCh they are subjected

h. A l l piping over Inch ile '1hould be made of steel.

c. Ca'lt in)n or other un'!>ullable piping matenals should not be used.

d COPf1er or bra'!>'!> pipe and (ubmg should be ..,eamle'!> and should only
be u\ed for ')IZCS t Inch and under.

{' Ma(enah for 1o\\, temperature service should conform to the low
temrerature '!>ervice reqUlrelllents of the code referred to m Clause 2.5.1.

2.5.3 Pipe joints

a Pipe jOlnh over 2 Inches nominal size hould be welded or flanged.
Jomts of 2 Inches nominal ,Ize or smaller may be \\/elded, Hanged or
..cre.....ed.

h. Scre\\edJolnts 'Ihould not be u'!>ed In piping for low temperature service,

except for small diameter Imes such as lIlSlrument l i nes and pressure
gauge connCCllon'l.

2.5.4 \'ahcs
o. The pnmar} shut-oIT valves for a tank \\'Ith a water capacity i n excess
of 2000 gallons should be made of steel or of nodular Iron made to
BS 27899 or an equivalent standard.

b. Other valves should be of steel or forged brass, except that valves of

nodular Iron made to BS 27899 or an equivalent standard may be used.

c.Cast iron valves '1hould not be used, other than those of nodular iron
made to SS 27899, or an eqUivalent standard.

2.5.5 Thermal pressure relief

Plpellncs I n which Ilquid rna} be (rapped, for example between shut-off
valve'!>, should be protected against e\cessi\ e pressure caused by thermal
expansion of the contents. If pressure rc.llc\mg devices discharge to
atmophere, the dl')chargc ')hould be to the open air and should be directed
'!>o a') not to endanger per'!>onncl or equipment.

2.5.6 Installation and tc-.tjll

a. Liquid and \apour pipeline!> should be properly supported and in
'!>talled ..0 a.. to ha\e adequate flexibility to accommodate any settlement
of tanks or other eqUIpment, thermal expan;;ion or contraction or any
other strc!>'!>c') which may occur 10 the plpe\ \ork sy'!>tem. Flexiblltty should
not be provided by the Introductlon of fleXIble hose into the pipelme
s}''1tcm.

b. A l l pipeline sy..tcms should be te,ted after installation. and proved free

from leak'!> a t nOI le..s than Ihe ma\lmum operating pressure.

12
 c. Plpmg ..hould be protected again.. t phY,>l\;al dJmage_

2_5.7 Insulation
PiflCilnc m.,ulatlon requIred for refrigerated ...y.. tems. or \\11Ich may be
required for vapour lme... or drain... of nonrcfngerated sy)tem.,. \hould be
in accord;)ncc with the provblom of the codt: referred 10 in O"u"e 2 . 5 . 1 1l.

2.5.8 Hoses
a. The dC'>lgn, material and construction of ho,>c\ "hould be "'lIItable for
the grade of LPG whICh t hey arc to handle They should be dc.,lgncd to
wuh"land a mJOlInUIl1 bursting pre\',>urc of four lime.. the maXlmUI1l
presurc thcy \\-111 carry I n "en'icc.

b. Ho,>e... for refrigerated LPG should be .. ullable for the lo\\-t opera ling
temperatures 10 .... hlth the)' will be ..ubJected III "ervice.

c. Ho"e" should be exammed \.Isu.l lly e\-ery day If used contlOually "nd at
each tlmc of usc If used intermittently They \hould be replal.:ed when Ihey
show viSible signs of delerioralJon, and 10 any case at mtervab not c'(cccd
ing lhe year:,.

d. Ho:,c<.:., when 1101 111 use, should be protected from deterioration.

e. Emergency "hUIoff vahes should be In..talled III pIpeli ne,> to \ \ Im:h

ho'>es are connectcd, to prevent dl"l.:hargc of LPG III the e\-enl of failure of
the ho..e.

2.5.9 Articulated pipe connections

The de-.Ign. material., and constructIon of articulated plpc connecllons
should be sUllable for the LPG \\hlch they arc to handle. They should be
capable of ....Ithstandmg a test pre".. ure of twice the maXlnlUm pressure
they will carry m ,>ervice.

2.6 S U PPORTS FOR TANKS AND PIPING

1.6.1 Tank supports

a. Tank .. "hould be supported on concrete. masonry or tructural steel
suppon". The"e .. upports (e\cludmg supporting feet 1 8 inchC'i or leli') In
height. tank :,addle... or kirt\ of verlll.:a l tank .. ) ...hould be $0 conlitructed
or protected as to have a standard of fire rec; ....tance of at lealit 2 hours.

b. The delgn of ..u pports should follow the recommendations I n the code
to which the tank I'> constructed.

1'.Support\ o:;hould permit movemem of the tank due to change... in

temperature.

d. Tank ... upport., ...hould be de

.. igned to prevent or to drain any accumula
tlon of water.

. Where pler are u\ed a part of the lank support for horizontal tank" of
"-ater capa\.:lt} e"l(cedlllg 1 1 00 glllon<.:.. provi.,lon should be made for
securmg the tank at onc end. the other being free to mQ\.-e as required III

IJ
 Clause 2.6.1c. The end so secured should be that to which the principal
liquid and the vapour pipelines are attached. Where saddles are not
welded 10 the tank, their support should be shaped to conform with the
tank shell. Supports for honzontal tanks. normally two, should be located
to give minimum moments and deflections to the tank shell. Additional
supports may be reqUIred to meet special circumstances.

f The lank should be securely anchored or \\.eighted or adequate pier

heighl provided 10 avoid flotation due to flood waler.

g. SklTls for veTllcal tanks should be provided with vents to prevent

accumulation of vapour and with inspection openings.

2.6.2 Pipe supports

Supporb should be adequately designed. spaced and secured 10 suit the
plpework configuration and 10 withstand anchorage and guide fricllon
forces. I n the case of pipe supports In the Immediate vicinity of the tanks,
consldcnHion should be given to their construcllon or protection so as to
!!ecure a standard of fire resistance of al leasl 2 hours.

2.7 LOADING A N D UNLOADING FACILITIES

2.7.1 Pumps
a. The de!!ign, materials and construction of pumps should be suitable
for the grade of LPG WhLCh they arc to handle, and they should be de
signed for the maximum outlet pressure to which they will be subjected i n
operation.

b. Positive displacement pumps should have a by-pass or olher suitable

prOleC110n agamst over pressure. discharging 10 the pump suction or 10 a
safe place.

2.7.2 Compressors
a. The design, materials and construction of compressors should be suit
able for the grade of LPG which they are to handle, and they should be
designed for t he maximum outlet pressure to which they w i l l be .l>ubjected
in operation.

b. Positive displacement compressors should be equipped with pressure

rellcvlng dcvices, discharging to the compressor suction or t o a safe place.

2.7.3 Meters
The design, materials and construction of meters should be suitable for the
grade of LPG which they are to handle.

2.7.4 Transfer Systems

a. Transfer systems should be designed so that risk by operating error of
LPG of hIgher vapour pressure being transferred to equipment deSigned
for LPG of lower vapour pressure is aVOided.

b. E).cess now valves, automatically operated valves or remotcly con

trolled valves should be installed in pipelines to which hoses or flexible

14
 pipe connections arc connected to prevent discharge of LPG i n the event
of failure of the hose or connection.

c. I n the case of transfers between storage and ship or pipeline external to

the site:

I. There should be positive means of rapidly shulling off flow. located a t

a safe distance from the storage which is being fil led o r emptied.
1 1 . Automatic alarm devices to II1dicate approach to maximum permis
sible filling height. automatic shut-oft valves or comparable devices to
prevent overfilling should be used.

2.7.5 Protection

Pumps, compressors and meters should be protected against accidental

damage by SUitable poslllonlng and/or protection. Pumps. compressors,
meters and similar equi pment should not be s1 led beneath tanks.

2.8 V A POR ISERS

2.8.1 General
a. i. Vaporisers can be low pressure steam heated. hot water heated,
electrically heated. or di rect gas fired Iype.
11. Vaporisers should be of sufficient capacity to supply the latent heat of
vaporisation necessary 10 conven the liquid into vapour at the maxi
mum offtake reqUired from the installatIon.
111. Where necessary. precautions against the accumulation of condensate
in the vapour discharge line should be taken. This may require insula
tion and heat tracing of the vapour discharge line, with the provision of
condensate pockets capable of containing the quantity likely to be
condensed during a plant shut-down.
IV. With hot water heated vaporisers, a n ti-freeze may be added to the
water to prevent freezing.

b. Vaporiser systems should be equipped with a means of safe removal of

any heavy products which may collect i n .he LPG pan of the system. The
point of discharge should not be directly beneath the vaporiser.

c. Heating coils should not be instal led inside a storage tank to act as a
vaporlser_

d. Valves should be installed to shut off the liquid and/or the vapour con
nection between the storage tank and the vaporiser.

e. Vaporisers, other than direct fired and non-flameproof electrical types,

should be installed at a minimum distance of 5 ft from the nearest storage
tank. Direct fired and non flameproof electrical vaporisers should be in
stalled a t minimum safety distances. in accordance with Tables 2.8.1 i.
The miOlmum distance between a vapOriser and the nearest important
building or line of adjOining property is set out i n Table 2.8.1 I t .

15
 Table 2.8.1 i

Walt'r clIpacir.r of A1ill;1I111111 di/ifance 0/ 'aporis('r from

SIorage rallJ. SIoroge lallk

Caftons Fur

O..er 250-500 10
Over 500 2000 25
O.. cr 2000 lO.OOO 50
Ovcr ]0.00075,000 75
Oiler 75,000 100

Table 2.H.1 I1

\ll11ll11l1m djl(allce o/ l'tlpOrift'r from nearest

Capacity o/ '(lpori.ler imporral/l bllildim: or lille of adjoinillg property

Ih hr Feet

Up 10 80 10
80 500 25
O'cr 500 50

/. Vaporisers should nOI be installed i n a buddmg except where tbe build

ing is u.locd exclusively for ga.lo manufacturing or distribution. Such build
ing'> hould be of non-combustible construction and v.cll\'enlllated near
the Hoor line and roof.

g. Particular care should be laken with the design and location of direct
fired vaporisers to minimise the effects of any failure.

2.8.2 Con'itructiOIl
a. Vaporisers should be designed, fabricated and tested in accordance
with a recognised pressure vessel code.

b. Each vaporiser should be marked 10 Include the foIlO\\l ng:

The pressure vessel code to v. hich il hi made.
The manufacturer's name and serial number.
The maXlIllUm working pressure and temperature.
The vlporjsing capacity In pounds per hour.
The year m which made.

2.8.3 PrC!'Isure retid

a. Vaporisers should be filled With a rehef valve or \alves. Prcs"ure relief
should be 10 accordance wllh Ihe code referred to i n Clause 2.8.20.

b, The full now capnClty of preS"ure relief valve... ,hould be :,uflicicOl to

protect the vaporber under fire exposure condwon5.

16
2,8 4 Liquid control
a.VaporISers should be provided with ul[able aUlOmalic means 10 pre
vent liquid LPG passmg through the vaporiser to the gas dbcharge piping
under all operating conditions.

b. The liquid level control, If filled, may be integral with the vaporiser
vc!.el or filted immediately adjacent to it.

2.8.5 Heat input control

a, The heal input should be suitably controlled to prevent the pressure in
the vaporiser \csel rcaching the starHo-discharge pressure of the pressure
rehef valve or valve m the vaporiser sylem.

b. Direct fired and elcctncally heated vaporiser') hould be filled \\ lIh an

automatic control to prevent overheating of the equipment.

c. Direct fired vaporisers .. hould be filled \\I\h Ullable flame failure

device').

2.8.6 i\1aintenance
Vaponsers should be examined at regular intervals.

2. 9 eLECTRICAL
2.9.1 Area classification
Britbh Standard Code of Practice e p 1 0037 and the I ntitutc of Petroleum
electrical Safety CodeS glvc recommendations for the installation of elec
trical equipment in area m which an mnammablc atmosphere which
could be ignited b) an electrical source may be precnt (dangrous areas).
The areas detailed m these Code include the followmg Divisional classlf'i
cation which are dependent on the probability of a dangerous atmosphere
being present, I.e. an atmo!.phere contammg a Significant Quantity of in
flammable gas or vapour III a concentration capable of Ignition.

Division I-an area In which a dangerous atmosphere is likely to occur

in normal operating conditions.

Division 2-an area In which a dangerous atmosphere can occur only

in abnormal conditions and not in normal operation.

Safe areas-all areas not classified as dangerous areas.

Table 2.9. 1 Indicates the area classification of various operations.

2.9.2 Eleclrical apparatus, earthing and bonding

Electrical apparatus and Installations, earthing and bonding, telecom
munlcatlons and Intrumenlatlon should comply with the recommenda
lions of the Institute of Petroleum Electncal Safety CodeS and relevant
BnllSh Standards71 1l LPG storage tanks do not reqUire lightning pro
tection.

I7
Table 2.9.1

Faclor Extent or Classified Area Area ClassIfication

Storage tanks D. Wlthm 5 ft m all directIons rrom the

tank connections or shell Division I
b. Up to 5 rt above ground level and with
in the dIstances set out ror a fixed source
of igmllon in Table 2.2.1 for Pressure
Storage or Table 2.2.2 ror LP Rerrlgerated
Storage as appropriate Division 2

Reller Valve Q. Withm dIrect path or discharge Fixed electrical

Discharge equipment should
not be installed
b. Wlthrn 5 rt in all other directions rrom
pomt or discharge Division 1
c. Beyond 5 ft but within 1 5 ft ( I O ft 10 the

ca of tanks or \.', ater CapacHy not exceed

109 500 galls) m all other directions rrom
point or discharge Division 2

Tank Vchide u. Wllhrn 5 rt m all d,rections rrom a point

and Tank Car where connections are regularly made or
Loadrng and dlsconnccted ror product transrer Division 1
Unloadmg b. Bcyond 5 ft but wllhm 1 5 rt ( I O ft m the
case or tanks of water capacity not excced
109 500 galls) from point of connection or
dIsconnectIon Division 2

Pumps. Com-
pressors and
Vaporisers
other than
Direct Fired
Q. Outdoors in Q. Wlthm 5 ft 10 all directions Division I
open aIr, al or b. Beyond 5 ft but within 1 5 rl m 311
above ground dlfccl1on'i (10 ft m the case or tanks of
level water capacity nOt exceeding 500 galls) Division 2
Note: Where high standards of maintenance or pumps and pump seats obtain,
the area \.',lIhin 5 rt in all dircctions rrom the pump may be classified as
Division 2
b. Indoor loea Enure room and any adjacent room not
lion wnh separated by a vapour-tIght partitIon Division J
adequate vcn
Ilialion

Notes: I . Where any arca IS classified under more than one factor the higher
c1asslftcalJon should prevail.
2. Any pit, trench or depresSIon fallmg wilhin a DIVision 1 or Division 2
area should be treated as being a Division 1 area throughout.
3. The term 'outdoors In open air' IRcludes pumps. compressors and
vaponsers which are covered by a canopy.

18
2.10 F I R E PROTECTIO
2.10.1 Genera I
The POSSibility of a major fire outbreak. leadmg 10 direct flame Impinge
menl on the storage lank, can be mmimlsed by sound engmeerlng I n plant
dcslgn and lay-out, good operatmg practice and proper education and
tramlng of personnel on both routine operations and on action IQ be taken
in an emergency. Consuhation With the fire authority on the provision of
fire protection faci lities should lake place In lhe early planning stages. I [ is
recommended that the fire authonty should be consulted with regard to
fire-fightmg cqUlpmenl, water supplies. means of access for fire bngade
appliances. protection of fire-fightmg personnel and arrangements
generally t o ensure an earl) call 10 Ihe fire bngade In the event of an OU(
break of fire.

2 . 1 0.2 Communications
Consideration should be given 1 0 Ihe provision of an adequate communi
cations <;ystem for summoning the emergency services. ThiS communica
tlon!. sytem should be tested at regular mtervab.

2.10.3 Wafer supply

a. Provision should be made for an adequate supply of water for firc
protccllon. The applicallon of water m3) be by hydrants, hoses and
mobile cqulpment. fi:o:ed momtors or fixed spra) s)-stem....., which may be
automatic. Wherc\er posslblc automatic fixcd pray systems, which offer
obvious advantage'i. should be Installed. Control of water Oow, including
suitable sectionahsatlon of any piped water supplies. should be possible
from outside the danger area, and preference should be given 10 walcr
eqUipment which can readily be brought Into use and enable personnel to
withdraw from the danger area.
b. Hydrants. where provided, should be readdy acceSSible at a l l times and
so localed as 10 provide for the prOtccllon of all tanks.
c. Sufficient lengths of fire hose should be provided and be readily 3\all
able. I t IS desirable 10 equip the outlet of each hose line with a combma
lion Jet and spray nozzle.
d. Mobile eqUipment. fixed monitors or fixed spray systems should be
deSigned to discharge water at a rate sufficient 10 maintain an adequate
film of "ater Olver Ihe surface of the lank and supports under fire con
dlllons.
e. Consideration should be given 10 the provision of mobile or fh:ed
waler-spray systems glvmg suitable and effeclive prolection for road lank
er and rail tank car loadmg and unloadmg areas where large transfers of
L P G arc made frequently.

2.10.4 Firslaid fire extinguishers

A suffiClcnt number of firsl-ald fire extinguishers of adequate size, prefer.
ably of the dry powder type. should be avallable at strategic locations.
Dry po....der
.. e"l.tmguishcrs should conform to OS 34656. Foam ext.n
gUIhers arc nOI suitable for LPG fires.

19
2.10.5 Access
SUItable access to and around the installation should be provided for fire
fightmg appliances and kept free at all times.

2. 10.6 Isolating vahcs

Provision should be made for aUlOmalic or remote control shut-off so
that If accidental leakage occurs, the supply of LPG can be slopped. Other
shut-off valves should be located a t strategic points.

2.10.7 Drn ins and blow-ofT lines

No dram or blow-otT line should dIscharge into or be in the proximity of
any public drainage S)'stem or any other drainage system where this
would be ltable to create a hazard.

2 .1 0 .8 Grao;;s and \\ccd rcmo\al

Weeds, long grass and an)' combustible material should be removed from
an area .... Jlhln 1 0 ft of any LPG :.torage tank of up to 500 gallons water
capacity and within 20 ft of larger tanks. I f ecd killers are u:.ed, chemi
cal.:; such a:. ..odIum chlorate which are a potential source o f fire danger
:.hould not be selected for this purpose.

2.10.9 Warning signs

Where ':>moklng and naked lights are prohibited. prominent notices to this
effect should be posted, parllcularly at access POints.

PART 3 I N D U S T R I A L , C O M M ERCIAL A N D D O M E S T I C
B U L K STORAGE

3 I SCOPE
3. 1 . 1 Tlm Part covers LPG bulk torage installations at industrial, commercial
and domestIC consumers' premises. and a t gas works where the total LPG
storage capaCity is 30,000 gallons water capacity or less. Installations are
covered only up to the Inlet of first stage line pressure reduction.
TIllS part i':> not i ntended to cover the following:
o. LPG storage 1I1')tallations at refineries;
b. bulk plants for LPG dIstribut ion;
c. refrigcratcd storage;
d. industrial Installations Involving either tanks of individual capacity
greater than 30,()(X) gallons water capacity or group storag capacity
greater than 1 00,000 gallons water capacity {see Clause 3.2.Je.}
I n these cases the recommendations of Part 2 should be followed.

3.2 STORAGE TANK LOCATION AND SAFETY DISTANCES

3.2.1 Location and spacing
a. Storage tanks are normally installed above ground; i f tanks are to be

installed underground, reference should be made to Clause 3.3. 1 1 . but

storage tanks should not be Installed I n basements. Storage tanks. whether
at ground level or underground should be spaced and located i n accord
ance wllh Table 3.2. 1 . The distances given are minimum recommendations,

20
 Table 3.2.1

Location and spacing ror lanks ror induslrial, commercial and domestic bulk !iolorage

Mmmwm Separation Distance m Feet

Maximum .... aler capaclly or Maximum 10lal .....ater From bUild 109. boundal). property IInc or
an) single lanJ.. m a group capacity of all tanJ."s 10 a fied SQurl,;C or IgOltlon Bet .... ccn lanks
group
Belo\\ ground
. . .

Gallons Gallons Abo\c Vahe MSembl)t and Abo\e Belo....

ground Buned loading unload 109 ground ground

portIon POInI abo..c ground
-

. . - .

Up to 100 )00 None 10 10 None 5

. - .

O...er 100-500 1500 10 10 10 ) 5

. - -

O\'er 5002 000 6000 25 10 25 3 5

- .

O\'er 2000- 30.000 100,000 50 10 25 5 5

Whether bUIlt on or not.

tThe isolation \lalves, filling \lal\les and pressure relief val\les 10000ted on the manholc cO\ler of the underground lank.
 and refer to the hOrllontal distance In plan bet"\Ncen the nearest poim on
the storage tank and the nearest point of a specified feature (e.g. an adjac
ent storage tank, buddmg, properly line).

b. With the provision of radiation walJs or adequate fixed water spray

systems, separation distance for above-ground tanks may be reduced but
specialist advice should be obtained. Where separation distances are
rcduced. diversion wall::. may be necessary to ensure that the path of gas
leakmg from a storage SHe to a building. boundary or source of Ignllion IS
not less than that shown I n Table 3.2.1.

c. Storage tanks should nOt be installed one abme the other.

d. No LPG storage tanks should be installed nearer than 20 ft to any tank

containing an inflammable liqUId with a flash-point below 1 50 F. The
minimum distance of separation between an LPG storage tank and the lOp
of the bund of any tank containing an inflammable liquid should be 10 ft.

LPG storage tank should be installed well away from tanks containing
liquid oxygen or other hazardous substances and specialist advice should
be obtained on spacing.
No LPG storage tank should be located within the bunded enclosure of a
tank contaming an mflammable liquid, liqUId o"ygen or any othcr hazard
ou'\ substance.
No LPG storage tank should be located In any bund where there is any
permanent source of heat (e.g. steam mams) or within the bunded enclos
ure of any heated storage tank (e.g. fuel oil lank).

i'.The number of storage tanks in onc group should not exceed 6, subjcct
to the maximum total capacl!) o f a group given In Table 3.2. 1 . Any tank I n
onc group should be at least 25 ft from any tank m another group unless a
radiation wall IS erected between the groups, or adequate fixed water spray
systerru; are provided.

3.2.2 Spillage
o. The provision of bunds around LPG storage I3nks designed and con
structed in accordance With Clause 3 . 3 . 1 IS not required (but see Clause
3.2.2c. for separ< Hlon kerbs).

b. The ground beneath tanks should either be concreted or compacted,

and so sloped a to:
I. prevent the accumulation of an) liquid beneath them. and
ii. ensure a flov. away from the tanl-s and any important areas.

NOli'S: I . Where all the connections of the tank are grouped at one end
the above provi'iions need only be reqUIred beneath the con
nections.
2. Provision should al'io be made for a flow away from the tanks
and any Important areas of cooling water applied under fire
conditions.
 c. Separallon kerbs, lo\\' t o a\old gas traps. \\'Ith a ma'.:imum heiglll of I S
Inches may be required 10 prevent "pillage reachmg Important areas. They
will not be required for tanks with no bottom liqUid LPG outlet.

d. To prevent the forming of gas pockets. which might affect the safety of
the tank, the VICInity of LPG storage tanks should be free of pits and
depressions. other than those necessanly reqUired for the cOnlainmcnt of
spillage.

3.2.3 Protection
o. To prevent trespassing or tampenng. the area which mcludes tan.. and
pumping eqUipment should be enclosed by an industrial typc fence at leas!
6 ft high at a dltance of not less than 5 ft from the IOstallatlOn unless the
fence IS a boundary fence, when the distances gl-.:en in Table 3.2. I will
apply. Where necessary, fences ..hould have at least 2 meam of elot not
adjacent to onc another. Gatc should open outwards, should not be self
locking. and hollld prOVide ea..y means of escape from W1I11I11.

b. The prOVisions In Clause 3.2.30. need nOI apply to tanks of le..:. than
2000 gallon.. water capacHY, are eqUipped wuh a posHlve means of
\ hlch

denYing acce.,s 10 valves and fittmgs (e.g. a domed hmged cover \\, hlch is
capable of bemg locked in the clo:.ed pO:'lllon).

c. When damage to LPG systems from vehicular traffic would be a possi.

bllIlY, precautions against such damage .. hould be taken.

d. Underground tanks should be protected from aboveground londings

due to ""ehlcular traffic or other cause, ell her by fencing off the area under
which the tanks arc buned, or by p l acmg them m a reinforced concrete
Imed pit protected by a rem forced concrete slab or other adequate cover.
I f the tank area is nOt fenced off. the tank manhole cover and the tank
fillings o;hould be protected agalllst damage and tampering. The penmeter
of the area under w hich tanks are buned should be permanently marked.

3.3 STORAGe TANKS

3.3.1 Design
o. Storage tanks should be dcslgned, fabncated and tested i n accordance
with a recognised pressure \lessel code for static chemical plant.

b. The deSign pressure of the tank should not be less than the vapour
pressure of the actual LPG to be stored at the hlghcst temperature that the
contents of the tank will reach 10 service (see Appendix B).

No/e: The vapour pressure IS dependent on the surface temperature of the

contents (cf. Clause 3.3.8).

c. Careful conSideration should be gl\en to the materials used for

construction, beanng In mlOd the mlOimum temperature that the matenal
of the tank will reach 10 ser\llce. I n the case of smaller tanks With high
drawofT rates, thiS may be below the mimmum ambient temperature.

23
3.3.2. Hflings
(I. Each tank should be provided with a t least one of each of the following
fitting." all of ",hlch should be wllable for usc w!lh LPG at pres'.;urc:; not
lc!>s than thc dC')lgn prc..:.urc of the tanks t o which they are filled and for
temperat urcs appropriatc t o the characteristics of the product and
operating condition:.'
Prc.,..,urc relief vahc connected to the vapour space.
Dram, or other means of removing the liquid conlcnts.
Contents gauge or ma,(lmum level mdlcator.
Pre.,..,urc gauge, connected to the vapour space, If thc tank is over 500
gJ.llons waler capacity.

h. Tank connections should be de....gned and attached to the tanks i n

accordance with the code referrcd t o m Clause 3.3.10.

c. Smce LPG IS noncorrOSl\e, 11 is normall) unncccssary t o subject small

tank.'.; to Internal examination; manholes and handhole!> are nOI therefore
normall) reqUired on abmcground tanks. Howe\er. manholes or hand
hole') may be prOVided on mnk'.; cll;ceedlng 1100 gallons water capacity, to
facilitate periodiC exammatlon. Undcrground tank:. ,hould be fitted with a
manhole of not Ie:;s than 22 Inches Internal dtameter. The manhole :.hould
be In the form of an extended nozzle of sufficient length 10 brmg the
manholc cover abo\c ground level.

d All lank fittings and connections of undcrground tanks !>hould be on

the manhole cover or covers.

3.3.3 Pressure relief

A spnng\oaded relief ,alve or \3Ives should be pro\,jdcd Pressure relief
should be III accordance With the code referred to In Clau..c 3.3.10.

3.3.4 Cupacit) of relief \ahes

The full flow capacity of preS'iure valves should be sufficIent 10 protect the
lank under fire expo.'>ure conditIon:.. For underground tankc; the full flow
capacit) of pressure rellcf vahes may be reduced 10 nOl lc:,:. than 300:>0 of
the abo..cground capacity.

3.3.5 Relief Hlhe information

C\cry rchef valve should Incorporate permanent marking!> as follows:
Manufacturer's Identlficallon, including manufacturer's naOle and
c3tnlogue or type number.
Start t o discharge prec;sure.
Certified capacilY 10 term!. of air a t 60 F (15'6 C) and 147 psia.

3.3.6 Relief \ahe in:.tallalion

o. I n Ihe case of multiple safet) relief va", If pro\lSlon is made t o isolate
any onc relief yalve for teSllng or \crYlclIlg, It should be ensured that the
remallllllg rehef vahe!> connccted 10 the tank prmide the full capacity

14
 required by Clau::.e 3.3.4. 111 thecaseof tank\ fitted with smglc relief valves,
provision may be made for their removal for te.,tmg or servicmg by the
u<,e of an automalll.: ::.hut-olf val\e. prO\Ided thl valve IS retained In the
fully open po..,llIon by the pre..ence of Ihe relief vahe and WIll close when
the relief valve is rcmo\cd I n carrymg out IhlS procedure, 1 1 is essenllal
Ihal the ...fOrage \(,..,.,cl i.. nOI left unprotected and a replacement relief
vahe should be Immedlalely fitted.

h. For above-ground tank..., over 1 1 00 gallons water capacity and for a l l

underground t a n k.. , the relief vahe ::.hould be fitled \\ I t h \Cn! pipes
adequately supported and havmg outlets at Icat 6 fl above the tOp of the
tank to whIch they are fitted and a t least 10 ft above ground level. Ven!
pipe., should be de.,lgncd to allow for drainage of water and to ensure thal.
111 the ca."e of Ignlllon of dl.,chargmg products. flame impmgement on the

tank. or on any adjacent tank. plpmg or eqUipment IS avoided. Vent pipeS

may be pro\,ded with loo::.c-fittmg ram caps. I n the case of smaller tanks
filted With \alve protectmg co\ers. a vent or vents suflklen! to permit the
free discharge of LPG from the relief "ahe or from any protection cap
fittcd to I 1 hould be provided The vent or vcnts should be III such a
position ao;: not to pread the LI>G over the tank o;:hcll.

3.3.7 Shu'-off \'ahes and emergency shut-off \'ahes

a. All hqUld and vapour connections on tanks. other than those for relief
valves, plugged opening'), and Ihose where the connection through the
lank shell IS nOI greater than No 54 morse drill .::.rz.e, should have .::.hut-ofT
valves located as close to the tank: as practicable. Pres')ure gauge mounung
connections should be protected InternaJl) b) a tappmg reduced IIltcrnally
to a bleed hole not larger than a No 54 morse drill size or by a suitable
excess flo,", valve.

b. Emergency shut-olT valvc<; (e.g. an e'(cess now valvc. an automatically

operated vahe or a remotel) controlled valve) should be fitted to liqUid
connections on tanks (c"cpt drainage and !lamphng connecllons of small
dlamcter).

c Drain connection .. for larger tanks should be provided with a shut-off

valve m accordanl.:e wllh Clau...e 3.3.7a and !!>hould prefcrably be not
..

more than 2 m. nominal size. Till::. !!>hut-off valve should be provided With a
length of plpmg terminating with a ')ccond shut-off valve, preferably not
more than I 10. nomln31 size. The first valve should be a qUick shut-off
t)pe; the ':>econd valve ')hould be a throllhng type. The length of plpmg
bet",ccn the valve.. ..,hould be <;;uch Ihat the risk of slmultaneou.!, obstruc
tion of bOlh valve') b) the freezlIlg of any water present m the LPG is
minimised A ..ufficient length of piping should be provided downstream
of thc sccond valve to ensure that dl<;;charge Will nOt take place beneath
the tank. The ..ccond valve and the ptpmg ..hould be adequately supported
and secured 10 pre ...ent mechanical damage or breakage by jet forces.
Both valves on the: drain S)lem \hould have a mean... of actuation which
cannot readIly be remo'ved or moved from the closed position except by
mlcmional operation.

25
 d The additional plpework and manual valve called for by Clause 3.3.7c.
may be fitted a t the time of drammg provided that the drain valve re
quircd by Clause 3.3.7c. IS protected by a n emergency shut-off valve (e.g.
an excess flow valve. an automallcally operated valve or a remOlely
controlled valve) filled upstream.

3.3.8 F illing capacity

The maximum quantity of LPG fi l led into any tank should be such that
the wnk will become nOI more than 97 % liquid full due 10 expansion of
the contents with rise of temperature (Q the highest temperature which
the contents will reach in service (see Appendix B).

Note, The volume of the product IS dependent on the bulk mean tempera
lUre of the contents (cr. Cl luse 3. 3. 1 b.).

3.3.9 Tank supports

o. Tanks should be supported on concrete, masonry or structural steel
supports. These supports (ec1uding supporting feet 1 8 inches or less i n
height. tank saddles, or skirts of vcrtlcal tanks) should be so constructed
or protected as to have a standard of fire resistance of at least 2 hours.

b. Supports should permit movement of the tank due to changes in

temperature.

c. Where piers are used as part of the tank support for horizontal tanks
of water capacity excecdmg 1 1 00 gallons. provision should be made for
securing the tank at one end. the other being free to move as required i n
Clause 3.3.9b. The end so secured should be that to which the principal
liqUid and the vapour pipelines are attached. Where saddles are not
welded to the tank, their support should be shaped to conform with the
tank shell. Supports for horizontal tanks, normally 2, should be located 10
give mimmum moments and deflections 10 the lank shell. Additional
supports may be required to meet special circumstances.

d. Skirts for vertical tanks should be protected with vents to prevent

accumulation of vapour and with inspection openings. Such openings
should be as few as possible i n number, as small as practicable and rein
rorced where necessary.

/!.Tank supports should be designed to prevent or to drain any accumula

tion of water.

f The tank should be securely anchored or weighted. or adequate pier

height provided, to avoid flotation due to Hood water.

The filling ratio should be calculated to allow a guaranteed free space of 3 % at

thc.sc reference temperalUres. afler allowance for the degree of uncertainty in the
liquid density data. However. to allow for liquids of hIgh coefficient of expansion
the filling ratIo should In no case give rise to a liquid full condItion at a tempera
ture less than 5 deg C above the filling rallo rderence temperature.

26
3 . 3 . 1 0 Protection against corrosion
Tanks and thclr supports should be adequatcly protected against corro
"ion, by paintmg or other means.

3.3. 1 1 Installation of underground tanks

Q. The surface of the lank should first be prepared by shot blastmg or
chemical treatment and then. before being placcd underground, be given a
protectl\c coatmg adequate to resist soil corrosion conditions.

b. The size of the excavation should be sufficient to allow for easy installa
tion. The pit should be large enough to permit a clear gap of at least 3 ft
between the "Ihell of the tank and the wails before backfil1ing. When
lowering the tank mto place. care should be taken to avoid damage to the
coating. When the tank is m place. the coating should be checked by suit
able fault detection apparatus and any dlsconunullles repaired.

c. Tanks should be supported on concrete or masonry supports as

required in Clause 3.3.9. The badfil1 material should be free from rocks or
other abraSive materials and should be carefully consolidated. I t IS recom
mended that approximately 2 ft of cover should be provided over the top
of the tank. Where concrete or masonry-lined pitS are not used, adequate
provision must be made to prevent migration of the backfill material.

d. I t is recommended that specialist advice should be obtamed on corro

Sion protection of tanks, including coating materials and application. and
on whether cathodiC protection i" necessary.

3.3.12 Maintenance
All tanks should be examined at regular intervals and the date of the last
examination marked on the tank.

3.3. 1 3 Marking of tanks

Each tank should be conspicuously and permanently marked to include
the followmg:
Q. The pressure vessel code to which i t is made.
h. The manufacturer'S name and serial number.
c. The water capacity in gallons, litres or cubic metres.
d. The maximum safe workmg pressure.
. The year in which the tank was made.

3.4 PIPING, VALVES AND FITTINGS

3.4.1 Materials
Q. All material" mcluding non-metallic parts for valves, seals, gaskets and
diaphragms should be resistant t o lhe action of LPG under the service
conditions to which they are !<tubjected.

b. All pipmg over Inch size 'ihould be made of !<ttee!.

c. Cast iron or other unsuitable piping matenals should not be used.

27
 d Copper or brass pipe and tubing should be seamless and should only
be ued for SIZes ! Inch and under.

)42 Pipc joints

PlpcJomb o\er 2 Inches nominal ilC should be welded or Hanged. JOints

of 2 Inche nominal Size or .!Imaller may be welded. Hanged or screwed.

3.4.3 Vahes
(jThe primary shuloff valves for tanks wilh a water capacity in excess of
2000 gallons .!Ihould be of Ieel or of nodular iron madc 10 BS 27899 or an
equivalent 'itandard.

b. Other valves should be of steel or forged brass, except that valves of

nodular Iron made to BS 27899 or an equivalent standard may be used.

c Cast Iron valves should not be u'ied, other than those of nodular iron
made to SS 27899 or an equivalent standard

3.4 4 Thermal pressure relief

Pipelines 10 "hlch liqUid may be trapped, for e'(ample belween shut-off
\al\ics, should be protectcd agamst excesSive pressure caused by thermal
e.... pansion of the contents. I f pressure relieVing devices discharge to atmos
phere, the discharge should be to the open air and should not endanger
personnel or equipment.

3.4.5 Installation and testing

a. LiqUid and vapour pipelines should be properly supported and installed
so as to have adequate flexibility to accommodate any settlement of tanks
or other equipment, thermal expansion or contraction or any otherslresses
which may occur i n the pipcwork system. FleXible hose should not be
IOtroduced 1010 the pipeline system to prOVide flexibility unless the follow
ing condnions are satisfied :
1. the capacity of the installation should not exceed 1 1 00 gallons water
capacity;
11. the mintmum necessary length of hose (not. in any case exceeding
9 inches) should be used;
Ill. the bore of the hose should not cceed I lOch:
IV. the hose should be fully armourcd and of high quality;
v. the hose connection to the LPG supply/withdrawal point of the tank
(measured in plan at right angles to the tan!.. shell) should be at least
onc lank diameter from the nearest pari of the tank shell;
VI. the hose should be Inspected and maintained in accordance wit h the
provlsion of Clau!>e 3.4.6b.

b. All pipeline systems should be tested after installation, and proved free
from leaks at not less than the maximum operating pressure.

c. PIPing should be protected against physical damage.

28
3 4.6 "loses
a. The de:.ign, materials and con:.truction or hoses should be suitable ror
the grade or LPG which they are to handle. They should be designed 10
WI!lbland a minimum bursllng pressure or rour times the maximum
pressure the) .... 111 carry I n service.

b. Hocs hou'd be examined visually every day i r used continually and

at each lime or use i r used intermittently. They should be replaced when
they show visible !>Ign!> or deterioration, and in any case at intervab not
e1l;ceed I ng fi\'e years.

c. Hoses, when not In use, should be protected rrom deterioration.

d. Ernerg!nc) shut-off valves should be Installed In plpelllles to which

hose... are connected. to prevent discharge or LPG III the cvent or rail ure or
the hose.

3.5 P U M PS, COMPRESSORS A N D METERS

3.5.1 Pumps
a. The design, materials and con... truction or pumps should be suitable ror
the grade or LPG which they arc to handle, and they should be deSIgned
ror the maximum outlet pressure to which they will be subjected i n
operation.

h. Posillve displacement pumps should have a by-pass or other suitable

protection against over pressure.

3.5.2 Compressors
a. The deSign. materials and construcllon or compressors should be
suitable ror the grade or LPG ....hlch they are to handle, and they should
be designed ror the maximum outlet pressure 10 which they will be
subjected 1 0 operation.

b. Positive displacement compressors should be eqUipped With pressure

relieving devices on the discharge Side.

3.5.3 Meters
The design, materials and construction or meters should be suitable ror the
grade or LPG which they are to handle.

3.5.4 Protection
Pumps, compressors and meters should be protected against accidental
damage by suitable positioning and/or protection. Pumps, compressors,
meters and Similar eqUipment should not be sited beneath tanks.

3.6 VAPORISERS
3.6. 1 General
a. i. Vaporisers can be low pressure steam heated, hot water heated, elec
trically heated, or direct gas fired type.

29
 11. Vaporisers should be of sufficient capacity to supply the latent heat of
vaporisation necessary to convert the liquid InIO vapour at the maxi
mum offlake required from the lIlslallation.
Ill. Where necessary, precautlon agJlnst t h e accumulation of condensate
10 the vapour discharge line should be taken. This may require IOsula

lion and heat traclOg of the vapour discharge hne. with the provision
of condensate pockets capable of containing the quantity likely t o be
condensed during a plant shut-down.
IV. With hot water heated vapomers, anti-freeze may be added 10 t h e
wilier 10 prevent freezing.

b. VaporISer systems hould be equipped with a means of safe removal of

any heavy products which may collect In the LPG part of the system. The
pOint of dl'icharge should nOt be directly beneat h the vaporiser.

(' I-Ieatlng cOils should nOI be IIlstalled inside a storage tank to act as a
vaponser.

d. Valves should be Installed 10 shut off the liquid and 'or the vapour COD
nectlon between the storage lank and t he vaporiser.

f!.Vaporisers, other than direct fired and non-flameproof electrical types,

should be IIlstalled at a minimum distance of 5 fl from the nearest [orage
tank. Direct fired and non-flameproof electrical VapOrisers should be
mstal led at mlnllllUm safety distances, In accordance with Table 3.6.1 i.
The mil11mum distance between a vaporiser and the nearest Important
bul ldlllg or line of adjolnmg property IS set out i n Table 3.6.1 11.

Table 3.6.1 i

It
'afr caponl)' of Almi",,,,,, dislanc 0/ I'Oporisr from
Slorag rank storage tallJ..

GlIllolIS Feet

Over 250 -500 10

Ovcr 500 2000 25
Over 200030,000 50
O...er 30,0007 5,000 75
O,cr 75,000 100

Tablc 3.6.1 ii

;\/111111111111 duranct' 0/ \llporlj"r from n('luest

Cap(I('ily of I'aporij;t'r import(lf/f building or line 0/ at/foming propt'fty

Iblhr Fet

Up IQ 80 10
80-500 25
Over 500 50

30
 f. Vaporisers should not be installed In a bUlldmg except where the build
ing is ued exclusivel) ror gas manuracturing or distribution. Such build
ing:. should be or non-combustible con!>truclion and well venlilated near
the floor hne and roor.

g. Parllcular care should be taken with the design and location or direct
fired vaporisers to minimise the cITects or an) railure.

3.6.2 COIl'itrucliolt
a. Vaporisers should be dC!:.lgned, rabrlcated and lested In accordance
with a recognised pressure vessel code.

b. Each vaporiser should be marked 10 include the rollowing:

The pressure \essel code to which I t is made.
The manuracturer's name and serial number.
The maximum working pressure and temperature.
The vaporising capacity in pounds per hour.
The year in which made.

3.6.3 Pressure relier

D. Vaporisers should be filled with a reher valve or valves. Pressure relier
should be in accordance with the code rererred to i n Clause 3.6.20.

b. The rull How capacity or pressure relier valves should be sufficient to

protect the vaporiser under fire exposure conditions.

3.6.4 Liquid control

a. Vaporisers should be provided with suitable automatic means 10 pre
vent liquid LPG passing through the vaporiser to the gas discharge piping
under a l l operating conditions.

b. The liqUid level control, ir fitled, may be integral with the vaporiser
vessel or fitled Immediately adjacent 10 11.

3.6.5 Heat input control

a. The heat input should be suitably controlled to prevent the pressure i n
the vaporiser vessel reaching the start-ta-discharge pressure or the pres
sure relier valve or valves in the vaporiser system.

b. Direct fired and electrical ly-heated vaporisers should be fitted with an

automatic control 10 prevent overheating or the equipment.

c. Direcl fired vaporisers should be filled with suitable flame failure

devices,

3.6.6 Maintenance
Vaporisers should be examined at regular intervals.

31
3.7 ELECTRICAL
3.7.1 Area classification
Briu'ih Standard Code of Practice C P ] OO37 and the IntitUle of Petroleum
Electrical SafclY CodeS gllwC recommendation::. for the installation of
clc(.;lrical eqUipment In areas In which an Inflammable at mosphere which
could be Igntted bY ::l n electrical source may be present (dangerous areas).
The area\ detailed in these Codes Include the (ollo\l" mg DIvIsional classi
fications which are dependent on the probability of a dangerous atmos
phere being present, I.C. an 31 mmphere containing a significant Quantity of
inflammable gas or \apour in a concentration capable of ignition.
Division I -an area in which a dangerous atmosphere is likely t o occur
In normal opcrallng conditions.
Division 2-3n area In which a dangerous atmosphere can occur only 10
abnormal conditions and not i n normal operation.
Safe area')--all area!> not classified as dangerous areas.
Table 3.7.1 indicates the area classification of various operations.

3.7.2 Electrical :Ipparatus. earthing and bonding

Electncal apparatu\ and installations, earthing and bond109, telecom
muntcatton,,; and Instrumentatton should comply wllh the recommenda
tions of the Institute of Petroleum Electrical Safety Code8 and relevant
British Standards7, 12. LPG !>torage tanks do nOI require IIghtmng protec
tton.

3.8 FI R E PROTECT ION

3.8.1 General
The POSSibility of a major fire outbreak, leadtng to direct flame impinge
ment on the storage tank, cal1 be mimn1lSed by sound engineenng in plant
design and lay-out, good operating practice and proper education a n d
tratnmg of personnel o n both routine operations and o n action to be taken
i n an emerg-;;!ncy. I t I') recommended that the fire aut hority should be con
:)ulted with regard to fire-fighting equipment, water supplies, means of
accs for fire bngade appliances, protcction of fire-fighting personnel and
arrangements generally to cmure an early call to the fire bngade i n the
event of an outbreak of fire.

3.8.2 Wilier supply

(I.Provision should be made for an adequate supply of water for fire pro
teclJon. The application of water may be b) hydrant!>. hoses and mobile
eqUIpment, fixed momtors or fixed spray systems. which may be auto
matic. For rnall lllstnllallon<;, however, a LOch hose reel installation may
be adequatc_ Control of watcr flow. Including <;uitable scctionalisation of
an) piped \\atcr supplies, should be pOSSible rrom oUblde any danger area.

h. Hydranh, where provided. should be rcadtly accessible at all times and

so spaccd a!> to provide for the protection of all tanks. Sufficient lcnglhs of
fire hose hould be provided and be readily available. I t is desirable (0
equip the outlet of each hose line with a combination jet and spray nozzle.

32
 Table 3.7.1

Factor Extent of Classified Area Area Classification

Storage lanks (I, Within 5 fl in all directions from the

tank connections or shell 01vision 1
b. Up to 5 ft above ground level and with
in the distances set oul for a fixed source
of Igmtlon m I able 3.2.1 DIvision 2

Relief Valve o. Within direct path of discharge Fixed electrical

Discharge equipment should
nOI be Installed
b. Within 5 fl In all other directions from
point of discharge DIviSIOn I
c. Beyond 5 ft butwllhm 1 5 ft ( 1 0 ft m the
case of tanks of water capacity not exceed-
Ing 500 galls) In all other directions from
pomt of discharge Division 2

Tank Vehicle o. Wnhm 5 fl In all dlrcCllons from a point

and Tank Car where connecllons are regularly made or
I' Loadmg and disconnected for product transfer Ol\lSIOn I
Unloading b. Bc}ond S ft but " ithin 1 5 ft ( I O ft ln lhe
case of tanks of water CaplCI!Y not eXCl cd
Ing 500 galls) from poinl of connecllon or
disconnectIon DIvIsion 2

Pumps. Corn
pressors and
Vaponscrs
other than
Direct Fired
o.Outdoors ir o. WUhin 5 ft In all directions Division I
open air, at or b. Beyond 5 ft but .... uhtn 1 5 fl in all
abo\-c ground directions ( 1 0 rt m the case of tanks of
level water capactly not exceeding 500 galls) Division 2

Nole: Where high standards of maintenance of pumps and pump seals obtain,
Ihe area .... ithin 5 ft in all directions from Ihe pump may be classified as
DIviSion 2

h. Indoor loca Entire room and any adjacen l room not

lion wuh separated by a vapour.lIght panition Division I
adequate \-en
Ilialion

Noln: I . Where any area IS classified under morc than onc faclor. the higher
classification should prevail.

2. Any pl!. trench or depression falling within a Division I or Division 2

area should be treated as bemg a Division I area throughout.

3. The term 'outdoors in open air' includes pumps, compressors and

vaporisers which are covered by a canopy.

33
 c. Mobllc equipment, fi'(ed mOnltor or fixed spray sytems should be
de..igned 10 dlscharg! water at a rate sufficient to m:lIntam an adequate
film of water over the surfac of the tank and supports under fire condl
I ion').

cl Where large deliveries are made frequently, conslderallon should be

gpoIen 10 the prO\ISIon of mobile or fi)r;.ed water-spray system.. giving suit
able and effective protection for road tanker and rail tank car loadmg and
unloading areas.

3.8.3 First-aid fire eXlinguishers

A <;ufficlcn I number of fi rst-a Id firc extinguishers of adeq Ui t ! size, suitable
for LPG fLres. preferably of the dry powder tyP<', should be available a t
\trateglc locations. Dry powder fire e\ungUlshers should be t o BS 34656.
Foam e"(tmgUlsher<; are not sutlable for LPG fires.

3.8.4 Access
Sutlable access to and around the mslallatlon should be proVIded for fire
fightmg eqUipment and kcpt free at a l l t i mes.

3.8.5 Isolaling r ah 'es

Shut-off valves, which may be automatic or remotely controllcd. should be
provldcd at the tank. so that If accidental leakage occurs the supply of
LPG can be stopped. Olher shut-off valves may be prOVided al StrategiC
pomts.

3.8 6 Crass and l'eed remoHl1

Weeds. long grass and any combustible material should be removed from
an area with 1 0 ft of any LPG tank of up to 500 gallonllj water capacity,
and within 20 ft o f larger tanks. ( f weed k i l lers are used, chemicals such as
sodium chlorate which are a potential source of fire danger should n c t be
selected for Ihis purpose.

3.8.7 Warnin signs

Where smoking and naked lights are prohibited, promincnt notices to this
effect should be posted, partlcul:uly at access points.

PART 4 OPERATIO S

4.1 TRA INING

a. PerlJonnel respon ..iblc for the operation of cquipment and the handling
of LPG should undcrswnd the physical characteristics of the product and
be fanll llar with the relevant secllons of Ihis Code appertaining to their
spheres of responsibIlity.

h. A l l persons concerncd wllh the storage and handling of LPG should be

fanuhar WIth the fundamentals of fire-fighting and fire control with

34
 particular reference to fires Involving LPG. They should also be familiar
with the correct handling of any fire-fightlllg and fire-control equipmnt
provided and. where appropriate, should be exercised In this respect at
frequent mlcnals. The location of all ga and liquid piping and valves
should be known and their ue understood.

c.At the larger plants a proper emergency procedure should be laid down
and clearly posted. Rponslbllltles should be adequately defined and all
personnel tramed 111 handling emergency situations.

4.2 SEGREGATION OF PRODUCTS

a. All lanh, and \here necessar)' pipelines and other equipment, should
be clearly marked 10 show the grade of LPG for which they arc sUlIable.

h. Where more than one grade of LPG is handled, the mter-connecting

systems should be double-checked 10 ensure that a grade of LPG is nOI
charged mto tanks. plpchnes or equipment not designed to handle it and
that unacceptable product contammatlon will not occur.

4.3 P U R G I N G A N D FILLING TANKS AND SYSTEMS

D. When new tanks and system') are to be taken into commission. or
tanks and system which have been gas-freed arc filled, they should first be
cleared of air.

b. Air should be removed by e\'aCua llon or replaced by water, mert gas or

lPG, dependent on circunl')tances.

NolI's: i. Evacuation
ThiS method is only suitable for tanks designed for full vacuum
conditions. Tanks should be evacuated down to 20'" of mercury
vacuum ( 1 0" of mercury absolute).

ii. Waler
Provision should be made for the complete removal of the water.
Water should not be used m the case of storage for refrigerated
LPG.

iii. Inert gas

Admit sufficIent men gas until the oxygen content of the residual
mixture is less than 1 0 '0 by volume (i.e. inert gas of free volume
equal to the tank capacity).
I f the source of mert gas IS In liqUid form, precautions should be
taken to ensure complete vapOflsat!on and that no liquid enters
the tank or system.

iv. LPG
If LPG vapour is used to replace the aIr, then the lank and system
will for a peflod of I1me contain a n Inflammable mixture and an
inflammable mixture will be ...ented from the tank and syste m ;
adequate precautIons t o prevent ItS IgnitIOn are essential.
THIS METHOD SHOULD !';OT 81; USEt} UNLF.s5 UNDER THE STRICT CON
TROL OF COMPETENT AND I;'\PERIENCED PERSOSNEL.

35
 c. I n filling the tank and ylem, care hould be taken to prevent excesive
chilling by the too rapid evaporation of the LPG pumped into it.

4.4 D R A I N I N G OF TANKS

Particular care should be e'(crLlsed when dralnmg water from tanks in

order to prevent e'Jcape of LPG. There ..hould be 2 dram valves as recom
mended m Clauses 2.3.8c. and 3.3.7('. The valve nearer the tank should be
opened fir!:.t to an e\:tent ufficienl to mamtaln a liquid full condilion on
the downstream side. and drammg controlled by gradually opening the
val"c furl her from the tank On completion of the draimng operation, the
valve fUrlher from the tank. should be closed first, then the valve nearer to
the tank ('lee also CJaus 2.5.5 and 3.4.4).

4.5 PRODUcr TRANSFERS

a. Before LPG IS transferred from a tank to any other tank. whether it is a
storage tank, road tanker or rail tank car, the followmg procedure should
be followed:
1. The receivmg tank should be checked to ensure that it is in safe work
109 condilton and that It I not \0 be filled with a grade of LPG for
which It IS not designed.
11. The receiving tank should be ched.ed to establish the quantity that it
can safely receive.
Ill. The mterconnectll1& system (i.e. pipe work. fittll1gs. valves, hoses etc.)
should be checked to ensure that \1 is 10 safe working condition.

b . Before and dunng LPG trnnsfers from lank 10 lank and on completion
of the operation the receiving tank should be checked to ensure that it is
not being overfilled and on cornplellon IS not filled abo\e liS safe working
level.

c. I n the case of road tankers and rail tank cars the following procedure
should also be followed:
1. The vehicle should be prevented from accidental movement during
the transfer operation. The parking brake of a road tankcr or the hand
brake of a rail tank car should be on, and where necessary wheel chock
blocks should be used.
11. Any driving Untt or electrical equipmenl nOI required and not specifi
cally designed for the transfer operation should be SlOpped and
isolatcd.
Ill. Any accumulated slatlc electricity on a road tanker :;hould be dis
charged to earth and then the tank of the road tanker should be
elcctrically bonded 10 the fixed Installation before any LPG transfer
operation is carned oul.
IV. Before the vchlde is moved the liquid and vapour connections should
be dLsconnected; the electrical bonding connections should then be
broken.

36
 4.6 ATTENDANCE D UR I NG OPERATIONS
a. A responsible per!<.on hould rCm311l 10 atlendance dUflng all transfer
opernllons.

b. No drain \ahe. bleed ,alve, pipeline elc In the LPG system v. h ich
commUnicates dlrectl) 10 the OUlSlde air lohould be left open without an
operator In attenaance.

I c. I f It .'" necessary 10 dlsconlll1ue a lran",fer operation temporanly and

return to complete It later, the loadmg hose :,hould be disconnected.

d. The person In charge of operations should ensure that transfer opera

tions arc stopped and all valves closed If an) of the following occur;
I. Uncontrolled leakage
11. A fire i n the vicinity
Ill. An electrical storm In the viciOlty of an operation involving venling of
LPG.

4.7 ACTION I N EMERGENCY

I n any emergency SHuatlon H is of paramount imporlance to aVOid
endangenng human life. I t IS almosl Impossible to lay down a definite
procedure to follow m all cases, but the following aClions are indicated:
a. Summon help and fire-fightmg services.
b. Wherever possible. turn off all \'all,-cs to cut off or reduce the source
of gas escape.
c. Evacuate all persons. except those necesary 10 deal with the emer
gency, from the danger area, especially from any area which IS I n
the path of the gas cloud.

Always approach any fire or gas leak from upwmd. Gas fires should
normally be controlled but nOt extinguished until Ihe source can be CUI
olf.

4.8 LIGHTING STORAGE AND OPERATI G AREAS

Operations should nOI be carned out durmg the hours of darkness unless
adequate safe artificial lighting IS used.

37
 A P P E '1
. DIX A

J . Liquefied Petroleum Gas S.lfclY Code' The I nSlItuteof Pe'ro'eum [967 .

2. ' I n.. lallalion of Fixed Bulk Storage at Consumer' Premises': LPGITA

1 969.

3 . . laintcnancc of fixed Bulk LPG Vcsel5 at Consumers' Premises':

LPGITA 1 969.

4. 'Recommendallon, for prc\'enllon or control of fire involving LPG';

LPG ITA 1963.

5. SS 4250: 'Specificatlons for Commercial Butane and Propan'!' :

British Standard.. Institution 1968.

6. BS 3465 : 'Dry powder portable fircc'\'tingui:)hers ' : British Standards

Institution 1 962.

7. ep 1003: Pan 1 : 'Cholce, InstallatIon and Mamtenance of Flame

proof and Int rinsical!) Safe [lenrica1 Equipment':
British Standards Institution 1 964.

8. Electrical Safety Code ' The I nstitute of Petroleum 1965.

9. as 2789; ' I ron castings with l>pheroidal or nodular graphite':

British Standard.. Inl>tltutlon 1 96 1 .

1 0 . BS 1 500: 'Fu::'lOn welded pressure vessels for general purposes' :

BrIIll>h Standards InStitutIon 1958.

1 1 . BS 1 5 1 5 ' ' Fusion \\clded pressure vessels for use in the chemical,
petroleum and allied mdustnel>': Bntlsh Standards
I nstitullon 1 965 ( l'arl 1 ) and 1968 (Part 2).

1 2. ep 1 0 1 3 : 'Eart hmg' : Bnmh Standards In::.titulion: 1 965.

Note: Acceptance of the above Codes relates only to the edition of the
Code as noted.

38
 A PPENDIX B

REFERENCE TEMPERATURES

I . Reference temperatures for design

I n accordance with current practice in the United Kingdom. tanks should
be designed and constructed 10 SS 1 50010, OS 1 5 1 5 1 1 or other recognlscd
pressure vessel codes for the follOWing minimum design working pressures :
COlltel/IS Alill. desig" working presSlIre
Commercial Butane 70 psig
Commercial Propane 2 1 0 pSlg
However. British Standards based on the Reporl of the Home Office Gas
Cylinders and Containers Committee (Apnl 1 968) 3rc currenlly being
prepared. For tanks designed and constructed i n accordance " u h these
reqUirements, the temperature referred 10 I n Clause 2.3. I .b. and 3.3. I .h. may
be taken as:
50 C for lanks having a capacity exceeding 1 30 lures (approximately 28
gallons) but not exceeding 1 m) (approximately 550 gallons)
475 C for tanks having a capacity exceeding 1 ml but nOI exceeding 5m3
(approximately 1 1 00 gallons)
42 5 C for tan.ks having a capacity exceeding Srn} but not exceeding
JOm} (approximately 6600 gallons)
4 1 C for tanks having a capacity exceeding 30m3 but not e1(ceedmg
100m3 (approximately 22.000 galLonos)
40"C for tanks having a capacity exceeding l OOm).

2. Reference lemperatures for filling ratio

In accordance with current pracllce in the United Kingdom, the highest
temperature which the contents of the lank W i l l reach i n service should be
taken as 38 C for tanks above 3 fl in diameter and 4.5 C for tanks of
smaller diameter. However, British slandards based on the Report of the
Home Office Gas Cylinders and Containers Committee (April 1 968) are
currently being prepared. For tanks designed and constructed i n acccrd
ance With these requirements, the temperature referred 10 i n Clauses 2.3.9
and 3.3.8 may be taken as:
425 C for tanks having a capacity not exceeding 5m3 (approximately
1 100 gallons)
38 C for tanks having a capacity exceeding 5m3 but not exceeding 30m3
(approximately 6600 gallons)
37 C for tanks having a capacity exceeding 30m3 but not exceedlllg
l OOm) (approximately 22,000 gallon!
36 C for tanks having a capacity exceedmg lOOm)

39
Printed In n,lond r.... Het .jestr' Sto'on...., Offiu by Hobbo ll\e PT,n'." Lld . Soul/'ornp'"''
( 1 l94) D I o09U Klo 9 "