Gas safety in caravans and tents

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When was the last time you checked your LP Gas installation to ensure it was safe and complies with regulations?

Follow this simple checklist to see if your caravan is safe and complies with the regulations.

Does your caravan comply?

  • Is there a Compliance badge fixed to the caravan in a visible location?

The Compliance badge is a statement from the gas fitter confirming compliance with regulatory requirements. It includes additional important information such as gas fitter’s details, Notice of Completion number and installation date. The customer should also receive a copy of the Notice of Completion specifying that the work complies with the regulations.

  • Gas cylinders must not be stored or used inside a caravan or tent.
  • The gas cylinder must be firmly secured and cylinder valves readily accessible for ease of operation.
  • Gas compartments must be:
    • gas tight to the inside of the caravan
    • drained and/or vented to the outside atmosphere.
  • Out-of-test-date cylinders must not be filled until tested and re-stamped by a certified gas cylinder test station.
  • Warning labels should be displayed adjacent to the cylinder and appliance.
  • A gas refrigerator must be installed so that it is room sealed (the rear of the refrigerator should be vented to the outside of the caravan).
  • All gas appliances should be approved for use and installed by a licensed gas fitter.
  • Gas appliances should be serviced according to the manufacturer’s instructions or at least every two years by a licensed gas fitter.
  • Does the caravan have adequate fixed ventilation? Gas appliances installed inside caravans require permanent ventilation. Ensure ventilation openings are not blocked or restricted.
  • Gas appliances approved for outdoor use are not permitted to be installed or used inside the caravan.

Safety tips for caravans

  1. All permanent ventilation, flues and vents should be checked regularly to ensure that they are clear.
  2. Only an appropriately licensed gas fitter is permitted to carry out gasfitting work on caravans, this includes replacing the regulator and pigtail, and installing and servicing gas appliances.
  3. Use the cooking appliance or stove only for the purpose for which it was designed, not as a room heater.
  4. In the event of a gas leak, close cylinder valve and ventilate the caravan until air is clear.
  5. Ensure all cylinder valves are closed when vehicle is being towed or stored.

Safety tips when using gas camping equipment

Portable outdoor gas appliances must never be used inside a tent. This includes fridges, heaters and cookers.

  1. Periodically check connections for leaks at the appliance, regulator and cylinder with soapy water.
  2. Inspect all washers and o-rings on appliances and cylinders regularly.
  3. Sources of ignition should be kept clear of the LP gas cylinders, this includes generators.
  4. Never use a match or flame when checking for leaks.
  5. Close cylinder valve when appliances are not in use.
  6. Never interfere with or remove the valve on any LP Gas cylinder.
  7. Ensure all outdoor gas appliances are used outside only.
  8. Close appliance cocks before opening cylinder valve.
  9. Do not turn the gas on until ready to light the appliance.
  10. In the event of a fire, immediately close the cylinder valve.
  11. Close valves and fit gas tight sealing plugs to all spare cylinders not connected, whether full or empty.
  12. Familiarise yourself with the odour of unburnt LP Gas to assist in the early detection of leaks.
  13. Dispose of disposable canisters in a safe manner – do not incinerate them.

Gas safety in caravans and tents

Download the brochure on gas safety in caravans and tents

Using gas safely in caravans and tents

 

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