Gas safety in the home

There are two types of gas used in the home - natural gas, which is reticulated through a pipeline system, and LPG, which can be through a pipeline system or cylinder.

Both gases are used widely for cooking and heating and should be treated with the same respect for potential safety concerns as electricity.

Gas (natural and LPG) is colourless and odourless in its natural state. However, a chemical is added to give it a distinctive odour, similar to that of rotten eggs. This makes it easier for you to detect a gas leak and react immediately.

Neither natural gas nor LPG is poisonous or toxic, but if an area becomes filled with gas, it can cause nausea and dizziness due to the lack of oxygen. In extreme cases it can result in asphyxiation.

If you smell a gas odour:

• Don't panic
• Open doors and windows
• Don't light a match, candle or cigarette
• Don't turn electrical appliances or lights on or off
• Check your gas appliances are turned off and if this does not resolve the problem call your gas distributor

The emergency number is in the top right-hand corner of your gas bill under Emergencies or Leaking Gas. Keep this telephone number handy.

How gas gets to you

Natural gas, and sometimes LPG, comes to your home through a gas meter. Dials on the meter show how much natural gas you have used. Do not tamper with a gas meter — it could be dangerous.

Your distributor reads your meter regularly to calculate your gas bill. These meter readers carry identification which they will be happy to show you upon request. If you have any doubts about anyone claiming to be a meter reader, call your distributor.

LPG is also supplied to your home via large cylinders (usually two 45Kg capacity cylinders).

These cylinders can either be filled where they stand by a delivery truck, or the gas supplier collects the empty cylinder and exchanges it with a filled cylinder. LPG supplied through cylinders is not metered. You simply pay for the gas you use. Your LPG supplier will also carry identification which you may view.

Appliances

Gas appliances should be checked regularly by a qualified person. This ensures that they continue to operate safely and efficiently. Always use a licensed gasfitter to install, repair, service or remove gas appliances.

When buying a gas appliance, look for safety features such as flame failure devices, which cut off the gas if the flame is accidentally extinguished, and automatic re-ignition, which allows the appliance to relight itself if the flame is accidentally extinguished.

Pipelines

Your distributor inspects, tests, repairs, replaces and maintains its pipelines which eventually connect to your gas meter.

You have safety responsibilities if you are excavating on your property where there are gas pipelines. Just about anywhere you dig there could be an underground pipe or cable.

Dial Before You Dig on 1100 is a free service that covers electricity, gas, water and telecommunications, and provides the location of underground pipes and cables within your property.

If the proposed excavation site within your property has underground networks, all relevant plans showing their location should be provided within two working days.

Digging and damaging pipes or cables may disrupt essential services, cause injuries and could result in a fine. Further information can be accessed at www.dialbeforeyoudig.com.au

Cylinders

Your distributor will maintain and test your house-connected cylinders. However, you still should be aware for any signs of malfunction. Is there a gas smell? Has the cylinder been damaged? If you have any concerns, ring your distributor.

Portable recreation LPG cylinders (barbecue, camping) need particular care. These cylinders usually contain nine kilograms of LPG and can be refilled or exchanged at most service stations.

All cylinders must have a valid 10-year stamp to be refilled. Gas refilling stations are obliged to check the date of every cylinder to be refilled. If the cylinder is not "in test" then it should not be filled.

Keep cylinders secure during transport, and don't carry them in the passenger compartment. Use and store your cylinder in a well-ventilated area, and store away from excess heat and possible sources of ignition.