Construction sites regularly use portable propane gas heaters of varying sizes to keep workers warm. Some of these are placed in large, open spaces, but some heaters are also used in smaller, enclosed spaces. In addition to propane heaters being a fire hazard, they are also a hazard because of carbon monoxide emissions.

Propane gas by itself is odourless however suppliers add a strong-smelling chemical to the gas so that you can smell leaks which smells like rotten cabbage. Propane under pressure is extremely cold and can cause frostbite or cryo-burns. Propane gas is heavier than air so if it leaks from equipment or cylinders, it can accumulate in low-lying areas such as basements, pits, and trenches.

If enough propane gas collects in a low-lying area, it will displace the air. Portable heaters are fueled by propane and can emit carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a clear, colourless gas that you can’t smell or taste. Carbon monoxide is harmful when breathed because it displaces oxygen in the blood and deprives the heart, brain, and other vital organs of oxygen.

Propane is a hazardous flammable material that can have explosive force if ignited because the container is pressurized. If there is a leak, the propane can be ignited and cause a fire or burn the worker handling the container.  Turning on a light switch or an electric drill can ignite propane in high concentrations.

Propane Safe Handling Tips:
 Don’t store propane cylinders inside.
 Any cylinders not in use should be kept outside.
 Only a trained, certified worker is allowed to connect, disconnect, and operate propane cylinders.
 Have a 4A40BC fire extinguisher nearby.
 Handle propane cylinders and equipment properly.
 Never expose any part of your skin to liquid propane.
 Propane cylinders that are connected to heaters must be secured and kept at least 10 ft (3 m) away from them. The hose length must be between 15 and 75 ft (4.6 and 23 m).

CH-02 Propane Training for anyone connecting, activating or disconnecting propane devices (400,000 BTUs or less). This includes theory and hands-on practicals. Upon completion of this program, the participant will be able to recognize and evaluate propane hazards and demonstrate how to safely connect, activate and disconnect heater and torch in accordance with TSSA requirements.

Check out our Propane Safety Training in Construction course. This course gives an outline of propane safety essentials and more than adequately trains staff to be better equipped to work with propane in construction with a higher degree of safety awareness and implementation.