LPG pipework

Published: HSE, June 2009

Sites storing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are being asked to supply information about their pipework to help reduce the risks of accidents.

LPG is a safe fuel when stored and used in installations which comply with relevant health and safety legislation and industry codes of practice. However, when it is not managed correctly, the results can be catastrophic.

In May 2004 a gas leak from a corroded buried pipe led to an accumulation of gas in the basement of a Glasgow plastics factory. This resulted in an explosion which caused the building to collapse. There were 9 people killed and 33 injured some critically.

To reduce the risk of another incident, the UK LPG industry and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) consider that underground metallic pipework should be replaced with pipework made from materials such as polyethylene (plastic) which won’t corrode.

Replacing buried metallic pipework/fittings at commercial and industrial premises throughout the UK is a major undertaking. It therefore needs to be prioritised based on the risk of pipeline failure and gas entering a nearby building.

HSE will monitor progress of the replacement programme. Where necessary, HSE may follow up directly with LPG users to see what action has been taken.

For general guidance on this issue, call the HSE Infoline on 0845 345 0055.

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