Development of a safety framework for bulk & commercial LPG supply systems in commercial businesses

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to analysis the commercial & bulk LPG supply systems in Sri Lanka and to develop recommendations the safe LPG supply distribution considering market demands in commercial applications. This covers all the LPG supply systems practiced in Sri Lanka by identifying customer’s current perception and level of satisfaction with the traditional Gas withdrawal commercial 37.5Kg LPG cylinders and bulk storage LPG bullet tanks. LP Gas is potentially hazardous from the point of production until it has been safely used and the combustion products have been properly disposed of. The term LP Gas describes a range of products which have much in common on safety concerns during distribution. Safety concerns are the understanding the behavior of LP Gas and keeping it under control during distribution. The research findings reveal that industry currently follows unsafe practices that limit its ability to take full advantage of market developments and opportunities, particularly compared to bulk LPG supply system. This finding alone justifies the need for the LPG industry to find ways to work with LPG suppliers, distributors and dealers to develop commercially sustainable safe business models for supplying across the country’s full consumer market. According to the study new liquid withdrawal cylinders or bulk tanks are to be introduced to the current model to minimize the risk. To enhance the knowledge of users, there is a requirement of comprehensive door to door training progress. Following up available standards, set controls on LPG installations and continuous safety audits can ensure the safety of current commercial and bulk LPG supply systems. The level of challenges that exist will however likely lead to the commercial industry experiencing growing pains as it wrestles with securing market opportunities and reacting to the increasing competitiveness showed by bulk LPG suppliers. This research has summarized the problems of existing commercial & bulk LPG supply systems and it has shown the opportunity for implementing further safe systems to cater to the demand of industrial LPG requirements like in other many developed countries.