Whether it’s a gas bottle for the barbie, a can of hairspray or a forklift running on LPG, flammable gases are part of everyday life in Australia. But when it comes to handling and transporting these products safely, there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye.
Class 2.1 covers flammable gases under the dangerous goods regulations and if you store, move or use them in your business, you need to know what that means.
What is a Flammable Gas?
A flammable gas is one that can catch fire when mixed with air. These gases can ignite easily, burn quickly and if stored incorrectly, can lead to serious accidents even explosions.
Common examples include:
- LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)
- Butane
- Propane
- Acetylene
- Hydrogen
- Aerosols and gas cartridges
These are used in all sorts of industries across Australia, from automotive and agriculture to hair salons, workshops and warehouses.
How Are Class 2.1 Gases Classified?
In Australia, dangerous goods are classified under the ADG Code. Class 2.1 includes gases that are flammable under normal conditions they ignite easily, can form explosive mixtures with air and can rapidly spread fire.
If your gas product has a red diamond label with a flame symbol, it falls under Class 2.1.
Key Safety Rules for Flammable Gases in Australia
If you handle Class 2.1 gases in your workplace, here are the basics you need to get right:
1. Storage
- Store upright, away from heat sources and ignition points
- Use well ventilated areas (never in enclosed spaces)
- Keep clear signage showing the gas type and hazard class
- Secure cylinders to prevent them from tipping or rolling
2. Transport
- Cylinders must be correctly labelled and secured
- Vehicle placards may be required depending on quantity
- Always follow segregation rules don’t mix with incompatible substances
- Carry a Dangerous Goods Transport Document if required under ADG Code
3. Handling
- Use proper PPE like gloves and eye protection
- Train your staff on safe handling and emergency response
- Never tamper with valves or attempt to refill cylinders unless qualified
Common Mistakes Businesses Make
- Using damaged or rusty gas bottles
- Storing flammable gases near other chemicals
- Forgetting to label cylinders correctly
- Transporting unsecured cylinders in vehicles
- Not keeping proper documentation or emergency plans
These mistakes can lead to serious safety breaches and hefty fines if Safework or transport authorities come knocking.