LITTLE THINGS TO KEEP YOU SAFE – LPG SAFETY TIPS FOR HOMES
Keeping your home and family safe when using LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is easier than you think — and it starts with the little things. At Hi Service Gas, we’re here to help you stay safe, compliant, and confident in your gas setup.
Here are some quick and easy LPG safety tips every homeowner in the Western Cape, South Africa should know.
Prefer a video? Check out our YouTube & Instagram for LPG safety tips and education.
Full video on YouTube linked at the bottom of this article.
LPG Regulator – Replace Every 10 Years
Your gas regulator has a manufacturing date stamped on the back. Even if it looks fine, it must be replaced every 10 years. An old regulator can cause gas leaks and put your safety at risk.
👉 If yours is nearing the 10-year mark or showing signs of wear, give Hi Service Gas a call!
O-Ring – Small Part, Big Job
The rubber O-ring on your gas fitting might seem small, but it plays a huge role in sealing your gas connection. Over time, it can become brittle or cracked, or even stay behind in the gas bottle when removed. This can lead to dangerous gas leaks.
✅ We can replace it quickly and affordably — peace of mind is just a call away.
Steel Clamps – Check for Rust
Those small silver clamps on your orange gas hose might go unnoticed, but they’re crucial for keeping the hose secure. If yours is rusty or damaged, it could compromise your setup.
🪛 A simple screwdriver job — we’ll fix it in minutes.
Orange Hose – Replace Every 5 Years
The orange LPG hose should always show the SANS code, barcode, and a manufacturing date. These hoses need to be replaced every 5 years. If it looks yellow, brittle, or has been chewed by squirrels (yes, it happens!), it’s time for a new one.
📞 We’ll inspect and replace it if needed — quick, easy, and safe.
LPG Pigtail – Outdoor Safety Matters
If you use gas outdoors, chances are you have a pigtail instead of orange tubing. This flexible rubber hose also needs to be replaced every 5 years, especially since it faces sun, rain, and wear.
It also includes a rubber O-ring at the tip to help seal the connection. Cracked or damaged? Time for a swap!
🧰 We’re happy to help — just give us a shout.
Do You Have a Gas Certificate of Compliance (COC)?
If you live in the Western Cape and have a fixed gas installation, you are legally required to have a valid Gas Certificate of Compliance (COC).
You need a COC when:
Installing or changing a gas appliance
Modifying your gas line
Selling your property with a gas installation
💡 At Hi Service Gas, our certified team will inspect your installation, fix any issues, and issue your COC.
Learn more about gas certificates in South Africa here.
Why Choose Hi Service Gas in the Western Cape?
Registered and qualified LPG installers
Fast, friendly service
Affordable safety checks and repairs
Residential & commercial gas inspections
SABS-approved gas appliances
Call Hi Service Gas – Simplicity and Efficiency Beyond Electricity
Whether it’s a simple O-ring replacement or a full COC inspection, Hi Service Gas is here to make sure your home is safe and compliant.
Need great gas service in the Western Cape?
We’ve got your back — contact us today!
Working with LPG is a significant responsibility, and as a result, South Africa has a set of rigorous rules, standards and regulations that must be adhered to. These regulations are mainly designed to adhere to industry safety standards and to protect you as an end user of any gas appliance. Receiving a gas certificate of compliance for any fixed gas line and gas appliance installations is a component of these regulations.
In this article, we are taking a brief look at the basic safety regulations surrounding a gas certificate of compliance and why they are important.
What is a gas certificate of compliance?
The short answer is that it ensures all gas installations and appliances are safe and, as a result, comply with the South African National Standard (SANS).
To quote the South African Qualification and Certification Committee (SAQCC): “According to the regulations that were introduced in 2009, all gas installations must have a Certificate of Compliance (COC) according to the Pressure Equipment Regulations that have been promulgated under the Occupation Health and Safety Act (No 85 of 1993) – effectively stating that the installation has been properly inspected and is determined to be safe and leak free.”
What is a fixed gas supply?
A fixed gas supply is the gas line that is installed with your gas geyser, gas fireplace, or a built in gas hob, or gas stove. The most straightforward method of comprehending the concept of a fixed line is to note that it is not feasible to detach it and take it camping. It is not portable and cannot be transported. When an LPG supply line is not permanently installed, the orange pipe is typically connected directly to the gas hob, and both are transportable or moveable.
When do you need a gas certificate of compliance?
You need a gas certificate of compliance when you:
Make a change or adjustment on a fixed gas line installation.
When you change a gas appliance.
When you add gas appliances.
Sell and transfer properties that have a fixed gas line and gas appliances.
What basic rules and regulations apply to gas installations?
General LPG regulations:
Maximum LPG Allowed per property:
Up to 9kg is allowed inside an apartment.
Up to 19kg is allowed inside a freestanding house.
Up to 100kg is allowed outside a building on any earth but this may be subject to the local municipal bylaws which differ from area to area.
If an excess of 100 kg must be stored on your premises, a special application will have to be submitted at your local Fire and Safety Department. (See image with more details here.)
LPG gas hoses to connect to cylinders must be replaced at every 5 years or sooner if they show any cracks in the surface.
Regulators may not be older than 10 years.
All gas appliances and installations should be inspected for leaks and safe operation every 12 months.
Must be installed by an accredited LPG service provider.
LPG bottle must be placed on a solid and stable surface.
Must never be placed in a garage.
See the image for the safety distances outside:
No less than 1 metre sideways from doors and windows (unless a boundary wall is installed).
No less than 1 metre from an air vent.
No less than 2 metres from drains, manholes or pits.
No less than 3 metres below windows unless a non-combustible roof (corrugated roofing or nutec boards) has been installed between the gas bottles and the bottom of the window may be reduced to 300mm.
If a non-combustible roof is installed, it may be reduced to no less than 1.5 metres.
No more than 2 cylinders are used, no less than 1 metre from the property boundary wall unless it is a fire wall, in which case the cylinders may be placed directly against the boundary.
No less than 5 metres sideways away from an electrical source such as an electrical point, plug switch, socket, electrical motor, or pool pump etc.
Any outdoor light, no less than 1.5 metres above the gas cylinder valve.
For more regulations with the City of Cape Town, please find them here.
Regulations for gas hob and stove installations:
Install appliances on a firm, solid, and level foundation.
Do not install a gas appliance in a strong draught that will extinguish a burner set on a low flame.
To ensure enough ventilation, do not install gas appliances in small, confined spaces.
Ensure that the gas appliances are not situated in a space where combustible furnishings or ignitable materials can be set on fire. For example, gas hobs cannot be installed near curtains or cleaning materials.
Electrical equipment, such as light switches, stove isolator and plugs, should all be at least 200 mm away from any burner and potential point of gas release.
We cannot speak for other companies, but at Hi Service Gas, a gas compliance certificate inspection costs R661.25
If any repairs or modifications are necessary, we will provide a quote. Once the gas line or appliances have been brought up to standard, we can proceed with issuing the gas COC.
(*rate provided in June 2024 – subject to change.)
How will I receive a gas COC?
Once a full inspection has been concluded and all tests have been passed, you will receive a gas COC.
What must I do if my gas appliances or gas lines are not compliant?
Ask a registered gas installation company to fix all the issues, make the changes and repairs where required. The licenced LPG installation professionals will then automatically provide the COC after the repairs are completed.
Safety Tip: You should never attempt to fix gas-related issues yourself.
Hi Service Gas is certified and has vast experience to assist with residential and commercial gas COC inspections, gas compliance certificates, gas installations, SABS approved gas appliances, and repairs.
Ensuring adherence to rules and regulations is of the utmost importance when operating in the dynamic building and construction industry in South Africa. Among the many considerations, the installation of gas appliances demands meticulous attention.
In this article, we delve into the rules and regulations governing successful gas appliance installations, providing essential insights for Quantity Surveyors, Architects and Construction Managers and Building Contractors.
Understanding the Legal Framework
To ensure safety and effectiveness, various statutes and standards govern the installation of gas appliances in South Africa. The Pressure Equipment Regulations (PER) and the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) are the primary legal frameworks guiding LPG installations. Additionally, adherence to the South African National Standards (SANS) is imperative, particularly SANS 10087, which specifies requirements for the design, installation, and maintenance of gas systems.
“SAQCC regulations impact gas installations by ensuring that all gas practitioners are registered with the South African Qualification Certification Committee for Gas (SAQCC Gas) and that installations meet the criteria outlined in the Pressure Equipment Regulations (PER). Failure to comply with these regulations can result in illegal installations, which pose a risk to users and can lead to serious consequences for those responsible [1] [2].”
Key Considerations for Gas Appliance Installations
1. Gas Compliance Certification:
Gas installations must be certified compliant by registered gas practitioners. This involves obtaining a Certificate of Compliance (COC), which validates the safety and legality of the installation. You can verify the COC’s authenticity and ensure it accompanies any gas appliance installation.
2. Construction Site Assessment:
Before installation, thorough site assessments must be conducted to identify potential hazards and ensure adequate ventilation and space for appliances. Compliance with zoning and building regulations is crucial, requiring coordination between you and relevant authorities.
1. Importance of Gas Safety: The process of obtaining a Certificate of Compliance ensures that gas appliances are installed correctly and safely, protecting both the property and its occupants from potential hazards.
2. Role of Building Contractors: Building contractors play a key role in ensuring that all necessary safety measures are taken during the installation process, including conducting site assessments and obtaining relevant certifications.
3. Collaboration with Quantity Surveyors: Quantity surveyors are involved in assessing the cost implications of gas appliance installations, including any necessary upgrades to meet compliance standards, ensuring that projects remain within budget while adhering to safety regulations.
4. Legal Requirements for Gas Installations: Compliance with zoning and building regulations is essential for all gas installations to prevent accidents and ensure the longevity of appliances. Contractors must work closely with authorities to obtain the necessary permits and approvals.
5. Ongoing Maintenance and Inspections: Once gas appliances are installed, regular maintenance checks and inspections should be conducted to ensure continued safety compliance. Property owners should prioritise scheduling these services to avoid any potential risks or issues down the line.
3. Quality Materials and Equipment:
Gas appliances and associated materials must meet SANS standards to guarantee durability, efficiency, and safety. You should ensure that only certified products are used in installations, mitigating the risks of leaks or malfunctions. Failure to adhere to these standards could result in serious safety hazards for the occupants of the building.
4. Proper Ventilation:
Adequate ventilation is essential to prevent the accumulation of combustible gases, safeguarding occupants against potential hazards. You must ensure that ventilation systems comply with SANS specifications, considering factors such as airflow rates and proximity to ignition sources.
Additionally, proper ventilation can also help maintain indoor air quality and prevent the buildup of harmful pollutants. It is crucial for you to regularly get the ventilation systems inspected, maintained, or serviced to ensure they are functioning effectively.
5. Gas Installation by Qualified Professionals:
Only registered gas practitioners with the necessary training and certifications should perform gas installations. Quantity surveyors play a pivotal role in overseeing contractor qualifications and ensuring competence and adherence to regulatory standards.
6. Insurance Gives Assurance:
Ultimately, for the end user, it is imperative to comply with the necessary standards and regulations to ensure that the client or property owner remains insured. If something is not within the legal framework and an explosion happens or the property burns down from a faulty gas installation, insurance may not cover the damages.
For this reason, when it comes to installing certified gas appliances and gas appliance installations, it is imperative that you work with qualified professionals who adhere to all safety standards and legislation in South Africa. By doing so, property owners can have peace of mind, knowing that their insurance will protect them in the event of any unforeseen accidents related to liquid petrolium gas installations.
In adherence to the LPGas Safety Association of Southern Africa (LPGasSA) guidelines, you must prioritise safety and compliance throughout gas appliance installations. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to uphold safety standards and extend the lifespan of gas systems. Additionally, continuous professional development is encouraged to stay abreast of evolving regulations and technologies in the gas industry.
It is therefore critical to outsource the entire gas installation project, from inception to completion, to a registered and experienced gas installation company. This will ensure that all work is completed safely and up to code.
In South Africa’s Building and Construction industry, individuals engaged in the development and construction of properties that incorporate LPG must possess a comprehensive understanding of the policies and guidelines that govern the installation of gas appliances. By adhering to legal frameworks, conducting thorough assessments, and collaborating with qualified professionals, you can ensure the safety, efficiency, and compliance of gas installations.
Upholding these standards not only safeguards occupants and properties but also enhances the reputation and professionalism of professionals within the industry.
