LPG pipework replacement programme gets under way

E045:09 15 June 2009

A major programme to assess and improve the condition of underground service pipework carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from bulk storage tanks to industrial and commercial premises in England, Scotland and Wales has been launched.

The Industry and its representative body, UKLPG - working with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) - is carrying out a survey of some 60,000 businesses with such LPG pipework and will use the data to develop a programme which will prioritise the replacement of metallic service pipework starting in the autumn.

Our aim is for businesses with metallic service pipework, which can corrode over time, to lay replacement pipework made from more durable materials, such as polyethylene as soon as possible on a prioritised basis. The oldest metallic pipework in the least well-maintained condition and located in the most corrosive soils being replaced first.

Rob Shuttleworth, UKLPG's Chief Executive said:

"The UKLPG industry is committed to work with its customers and HSE to understand and prioritise the replacement of underground metallic pipework carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to industrial and commercial premises. Whilst we believe that the majority of installations will have polyethylene pipework we need to thoroughly understand what pipework actually exists so that an appropriate replacement programme can be put in place."

"Metal pipework has been traditionally very popular and we expect a significant proportion of those businesses with an LPG supply to have them. But underground metal pipework will at some stage corrode so replacing them with more durable materials is a sensible long-term safety measure.

"The survey we are conducting will help us to work with business to ensure that the replacements are carried out in a sensible way, tackling the oldest and most vulnerable pipework first. I would urge all business receiving the survey to complete it and return it to us as soon as possible."

Dr Brian Fullam, from HSE, added:

"LPG is a popular fuel used by a range of different businesses and we wish to ensure that their supplies are - and continue to be - stored and piped into premises in a safe way."

Businesses can either complete the survey online at www.hse.gov.uk/gas/lpg.htm or respond to the questionnaire sent to them by their LPG supplier by post. Responses are requested by 3 July. HSE and the Industry will then draw up a replacement programme prioritising high, medium and low risk businesses.

Responsibility for ensuring the safety and maintenance in industrial LPG pipework will normally rest with site operators - including landlords, site owners or business directors - although it can also fall to gas suppliers if they own the pipe.

Site operators are required by law to provide information on the type and condition of pipework and installation. They are legally responsible for complying with safety regulations.

LPG is safe when stored and used in compliance with the relevant health and safety legislation, standards and industry codes of practice (UKLPG publishes a wide range of such codes, see www.uklpg.org).

Notes to editors

1. UKLPG is the trade association for the LPG industry in the UK, representing companies who are producers, distributors, equipment and service providers, and vehicle converters. UKLPG was formed by the merger of the LP Gas Association (LPGA) and the Association for Liquid Gas Equipment and Distributors (ALGED) in January 2008. Its roots are firmly established, with LPGA and ALGED established in 1947 and 1975 respectively. It is dedicated to the safe and effective development of LPG and takes a leading role in the consultation and negotiation with legislators and policy makers.

2. The Health and Safety Executive is the national regulator for workplace health and safety. It aims to to prevent death, injury and ill health in Great Britain's workplaces.

For further information about the survey and programme please visit www.hse.gov.uk/gas/lpg.htm

Press enquiries

All enquiries from journalists should be directed to the HSE Press Office