Read the full article here: Gas cylinder explosion in tool of trade vehicle
WorkSafe is reminding employers and employees about the serious risks involved with transporting dangerous goods in tool of trade (TOT) vehicles.
Key Points
- Hazards Identified: Transporting gas cylinders in Tool of Trade (TOT) vehicles poses a risk of explosion due to potential gas leaks, which could ignite from sparks, smoking, or electrostatic discharge.
- Contributing Factors: Explosions can occur from improper storage, such as unsecured cylinders, damaged packaging, or failure to follow correct safety procedures, including valve closures and safety cap use.
- Legal Duties: Employers must ensure compliance with the Dangerous Goods Regulations by properly securing, marking, and ventilating dangerous goods during transport, and by providing the necessary training and supervision for safe handling.
Safety Tips
- Install a gas cabinet in enclosed vehicles, sealed and vented to the outside.
- Secure cylinders upright, ensuring they are restrained and free from damage.
- Always close cylinder valves and use safety caps before transport.
- Do not smoke near the vehicle while transporting dangerous goods.
- Carry a fire extinguisher in the vehicle as a precaution.
Employer Responsibilities
- Ensure a safe working environment by identifying and mitigating health and safety risks.
- Consult with employees and safety representatives on hazard identification and risk control.
- Provide adequate training, supervision, and instruction to ensure safe work practices.
- Review and revise safety measures to ensure effectiveness in reducing risks.
Employee Responsibilities
- Follow all safety protocols for transporting dangerous goods and use appropriate protective measures.
- Ensure cylinders are properly secured, sealed, and stored during transport.
- Report unsafe conditions or hazards to employers or safety representatives.
- Avoid actions that could cause ignition, such as smoking near the vehicle or using faulty equipment.
These measures help ensure safety when transporting dangerous goods, particularly flammable gas cylinders, in work vehicles.