dispensing propane autogas

Transcription

dispensing propane autogas
DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
TRAINING MANUAL
PRC-009432
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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
2
OPENING NOTICES
NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER CONCERNING LIABILITY
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is a
non-profit 501(c) 6 trade organization authorized by the
Propane Education and Research Act of 1996 (PERA), Public
Law 104-284. PERC was created “to enhance consumer
and employee safety and training, to provide for research
and development of clean and efficient propane utilization
equipment, and to inform and educate the public about
safety and other issues associated with the use of propane.”
PERC is governed by a 21-member Board of Directors
appointed by the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA)
and the Gas Processors Association (GPA). PERC program
beneficiaries include propane retail marketers, producers,
transporters, and agricultural cooperatives, as well as
representatives of allied service and supply industries
(industry members).
or by any negligence on the part of PERC, NPGA, GPA, or the
industry members or any persons who contributed to the
development of the information contained in this document.
PERC, NPGA, GPA, and the industry members make no
warranty or guarantee as to the accuracy or completeness
of any information published in this document.
The procedures and information in this document are
intended to implement the standards set forth in the
documents referenced with capabilities of the personnel and
equipment available. It does not create new standards or
criteria for compliance. The order of steps in any procedure
may or may not be of importance. This material is not sold
nor is it a product of any consulting or engineering activity.
The recommendations, standards, or recommended practices,
as reflected in this document, were developed by independent
consultants retained by PERC. While PERC administers the
process of obtaining the information, it does not independently
test or verify the accuracy of the information or methods
used to collect the data that support the conclusions or
recommendations reflected in this document.
Users of this document should consult the law of their
individual jurisdictions for codes, standards, and legal
requirements applicable to them. This document is not
intended nor should it be construed to (1) set forth policies
or procedures that are the general custom or practice in
the propane industry; (2) establish the legal standards of
care owed by propane distributors to their customers; or (3)
prevent the user from using different methods to implement
applicable codes, standards, or legal requirements.
PERC, NPGA, GPA, and the industry members disclaim any
liability for any personal injury, property damage, business
losses, or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether
special, indirect, consequential, or compensatory, directly
or indirectly resulting from the publication, use, or reliance
on this document, or any information, apparatus, method,
process, or similar item disclosed in this document. This
disclaimer of liability shall apply even if such loss or damage
results, in whole or in part, from any acts or omissions of
By disseminating or publishing this document, PERC is not
undertaking to render any professional or other service to
or on behalf of any person or entity. PERC, NPGA, GPA, and
the industry members are not undertaking to perform any
duty owed by any person or entity to any third party. Anyone
reading or using this document should rely on his or her own
judgment or, as appropriate, seek the advice of a competent
professional in determining the exercise of reasonable care
in any and all circumstances.
Propane Education & Research Council
1140 Connecticut Ave. NW
Suite 1075
Washington, DC 20036
202-452-8975
www.propanecouncil.org
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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
PERC gratefully acknowledges the generosity and
cooperation of the following companies for providing
personnel, equipment, and technical assistance:
We also gratefully acknowledge the technical input and
guidance of the following individuals, who served as subject
matter experts and reviewers:
• Bergquist, Inc., Toledo, OH
• Don Crowder, Corken Inc.
• CHS Inc., Inver Grove Heights, MN
• Ray Kazakewich, RegO Products
• Corken, Inc., Oklahoma City, OK
• Roger Leider, Minnesota Propane Association
• Ferrellgas, Liberty MO
• Bryan Lewis, CHS Inc.
• Minnesota Propane Association, Princeton, MN
• Bruce Montroy, Bergquist, Inc.
• National Propane Gas Association, Washington, DC
• Jeff Shaffer, Shaffer’s Bottled Gas Corp.
• RegO Products, Elon, NC
• Bruce Swiecicki, National Propane Gas Association
• Roush CleanTech, Livonia, IL
• Mike Walters, Superior Energy Systems
• Shaffer’s Bottled Gas Corp., Hooversville, PA
• Randy Warner, Ferrellgas
• Superior Energy Systems, Columbia Station, OH
• Rufus Youngblood, Ferrellgas
The material and other information included in this program are intended to provide general
guidance only on the subject matter addressed. They are not intended to be a substitute for
the personal instruction, guidance, and advice of a professional with training and experience in
the safe and proper use of propane.
IV
OPENING NOTICES
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Dispensing Propane Autogas is a training module funded by
the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC). The module
provides information about propane, using propane autogas
(autogas) as a vehicle fuel, and the tasks and decisions required
to safety and effectively dispense autogas into vehicles.
Trainees for this module include individuals who fuel autogas
vehicles for fleet or other commercial operations. Trainees will
vary in their backgrounds, knowledge, skills, and job experiences.
THE MODULE INCLUDES THESE LESSONS:
• Lesson 1 Overview of Propane.
• Lesson 2 Properties and Characteristics of Autogas.
• Lesson 3 Types and Basic Operation of Autogas
Dispensers.
• Lesson 4 Autogas Dispenser Operation.
• Lesson 5 Demonstration, Practice, and Performance Test.
THE MODULE HAS TWO MAIN COMPONENTS, INCLUDING:
• A classroom / conference room presentation conducted at
or near the autogas fueling site.
• A field-based component conducted at the autogas fueling
site, including
ΩΩ A demonstration of fueling a vehicle with autogas.
ΩΩ Hands-on practice for trainees to fuel a vehicle with
autogas, and
ΩΩ A short performance test that trainees complete.
Contact PERC (202-452-8975) for more information.
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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
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CONTENTS:
DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
INTRODUCTION: DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
LESSON 1: OVERVIEW OF PROPANE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
What is Propane and Where Does it Come From? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Uses of Propane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Autogas Globally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Autogas in the U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
What are the Benefits/Advantages of Using Autogas? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Fueling Site Equipment and Vehicle Safety Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Businesses and Vehicles that Use Autogas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
LESSON 2: PROPERTIES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF AUTOGAS . . . . . . . . . . 5
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Physical Properties of Propane and What This Means to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Unsafe Conditions: Propane, Ignition, and Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
LESSON 3: TYPES AND BASIC OPERATION OF AUTOGAS DISPENSERS . . . . 9
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Features of Autogas Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Features of Autogas Dispensers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
LESSON 4: AUTOGAS DISPENSER OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Propane Tank Safety Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safe Dispensing Habits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Uncontrolled Propane Leaks and Fires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Propane Emergency Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General Process to Dispense Autogas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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15
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LESSON 5: DEMONSTRATION, PRACTICE, AND PERFORMANCE TEST . . . . 21
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
During the Demonstration, Pay Attention to These Items: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Short Performance Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
RESOURCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
VII
DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
VIII
INTRODUCTION:
DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
This training module provides information about propane, using propane autogas (autogas) as a
vehicle fuel, and the tasks and decisions required to safety and effectively dispense autogas into
vehicles. Propane is also referred to as Liquefied Petroleum Gas, LP-Gas, or LPG.
The module includes these lessons:
• Lesson 1 Overview of Propane.
• Lesson 2 Properties and Characteristics of Autogas.
• Lesson 3 Types and Basic Operation of Autogas Dispensers.
• Lesson 4 Autogas Dispenser Operation.
• Lesson 5 Demonstration, Practice, and Performance Test.
Lessons 1 through 3 include general information about propane, and using autogas as a vehicle fuel.
Lesson 4 provides a description of dispenser operation, and how to dispense autogas into a vehicle.
Lesson 5 includes a demonstration of the process to dispense autogas, and then time for you to practice these steps with
the actual equipment, then have a short test so you are confident you can do this after the training session.
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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
2
LESSON 1:
OVERVIEW OF PROPANE
INTRODUCTION
This lesson provides general information about propane. You will learn about what propane is, U.S.
production, and how propane fuels fleet vehicles around the country. It also provides information
about the benefits of using this safe alternative fuel.
At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
• Identify the different types of organizations that use autogas.
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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
WHAT IS PROPANE AND WHERE DOES IT COME FROM?
Propane is a hydrocarbon. It is also known as Liquefied
Petroleum Gas, LP-Gas, or LPG. Propane is produced
domestically during oil refining and natural gas processing.
USES OF PROPANE
• Millions in the U.S. use propane every day.
• Home uses include furnaces, water heaters,
generators, outdoor grills, fireplaces, and appliances.
• Farm uses include pest control, crop dryers, and
power irrigation pumps.
• Industrial uses include propane-fueled forklifts and
fleet vehicles.
• Commercial uses, such as restaurants and hotels,
include heating, cooking, and other uses.
• Companies are using propane to fuel vehicles and
fleets; propane used to fuel vehicles is called autogas.
AUTOGAS GLOBALLY
FUELING SITE EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLE SAFETY
DEVICES
Autogas tanks are safe. Propane tanks are more puncture
resistant than gasoline tanks.
Fueling site equipment and vehicles have safety devices:
• Propane is dispensed in a closed system.
• Dispensing equipment uses low emission release
transfer.
• Use of emergency shutoff devices.
• Propane vehicles are fitted with safety devices that
prevent overfilling, and devices and shut-off valves
that function automatically.
BUSINESSES AND VEHICLES THAT USE AUTOGAS
• Light duty vehicles, delivery trucks, and vans.
• Public transportation and specialty vehicles.
• Transit buses, school buses, and shuttle buses.
• U.S. National Park Service.
• Autogas has been used to power vehicles for nearly
100 years.
• Taxicabs.
• Currently, about 17 million autogas-fueled vehicles
are in use; autogas is the most widely used alternative
transportation fuel worldwide.
• Consumer Market is growing.
• By 2020, autogas vehicles sold will surpass 1.4 million,
and more than 22 million vehicles will run on autogas.
AUTOGAS IN THE U.S.
• Autogas is the third most common vehicle fuel after
gasoline and diesel.
• Refueling a propane vehicle takes about the same
time as refueling a gasoline vehicle.
• Propane fueling stations are located in every state;
there are more autogas refueling stations in the U.S.
than for any other alternative fuel.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS / ADVANTAGES OF USING
AUTOGAS?
Propane is plentiful, affordable, and produced in the U.S.
• Propane is safe. Autogas is non-toxic and presents no
hazards to soil and groundwater.
• Propane is environmentally friendly. Autogas is one of
the cleanest burning fuels.
4
• Law enforcement vehicles.
LESSON 2:
PROPERTIES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF AUTOGAS
INTRODUCTION
In this lesson you will learn how autogas properties relate to safety at the fueling site. You will
learn how to detect propane, and how propane reacts in a gas or in a liquid form. You will also learn
that propane is non-toxic, but can be a frostbite hazard.
At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
• Recognize how autogas properties relate to safety at the fueling site.
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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF
PROPANE
The information below describes
properties and characteristics of
propane, and what this means to you
when you are working around propane.
PROPANE PROPERTIES /
CHARACTERISTICS:
ODOR
In its natural
state,
propane is
colorless,
odorless, and
tasteless.
A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is available from propane suppliers or
distributors and must be available and accessible to all employees at the
workplace. The SDS provides important information on propane including
physical properties, health effects, first aid, safety precautions, and
personal protective equipment (PPE).
WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU:
A strong, unpleasant-smelling chemical is added to propane so you can
detect it. The chemical added to propane makes it smell like rotten eggs, a
skunk’s spray, or a dead animal. You should respond immediately to even a
faint odor of propane.
What this means to you:
• If for any reason you cannot recognize the smell of propane, notify your
supervisor.
• Your safety could depend on your ability to smell propane in the event
of a leak.
KEPT UNDER PRESSURE
Propane is stored and transported as a liquid under pressure.
When released into the atmosphere, liquid propane appears as a white cloud
or fog at the point of discharge.
What this means to you:
• Propane is transferred during the vehicle fueling process by a closed,
pressurized system; this keeps it in a liquid state.
• If liquid propane leaks, it will turn into a vapor.
• When you complete the autogas fueling process, you may see, smell, or
hear a small release of propane from the nozzle.
VERY COLD
Propane becomes very cold when released to the atmosphere.
What this means to you:
• If propane liquid leaks onto your skin, it can cause frostbite or freeze
burns.
• Wear gloves or other personal protective equipment (PPE) resistant to
propane when filling a vehicle.
• Check and follow employer requirements for PPE.
6
(Continued on next page.)
LESSON 2: PROPERTIES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF AUTOGAS
PROPANE PROPERTIES /
CHARACTERISTICS:
WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU:
PROPANE VAPOR IS HEAVIER
THAN AIR
If propane escapes, vapor can accumulate in low-lying areas. However, air
currents can sometimes carry propane vapors elsewhere.
If you breathe a higher concentration of propane vapor it takes the place of
oxygen in your lungs.
What this means to you:
• Inhaling higher concentrations of propane vapor may cause lightheadedness, dizziness, and drowsiness.
• Excessive inhalation of propane vapor may cause unconsciousness or
even death, due to asphyxiation.
NON-TOXIC
Propane is environmentally friendly; if released it will not affect water, air,
soil, or you – except:
What this means to you:
• Propane liquid is very cold and may cause freeze burns or frostbite.
• If inhaled in high concentration, it takes the place of oxygen in your
lungs.
• Propane is non-toxic and therefore will not harm the environment.
LIQUID PROPANE EXPANDS
SIGNIFICANTLY AND RAPIDLY
AS IT VAPORIZES
One part of liquid propane will expand to become 270 parts propane
vapor. If a gallon of liquid propane is released it turns into 270 times that
volume as vapor.
What this means to you: Because of the large expansion rate, a liquid propane leak can be more
hazardous than a propane vapor leak.
• While any propane leak is serious, a liquid propane leak may become
much larger than a propane vapor leak.
LIQUID PROPANE EXPANDS
WHEN THE TEMPERATURE
INCREASES
In pressurized tanks, propane liquid expands 1.5 percent for every
10-degree rise in temperature of the liquid. Propane tanks are usually filled
to only 80% of their capacity to allow room for propane to expand with an
increase in temperature.
Vehicles that use autogas for fuel have safety devices to prevent overfilling
the vehicle tank.
What this means to you: • Remember that propane liquid expands with an increase in temperature.
• A 20-gallon tank would be filled with only 16 gallons of propane.
• Because autogas tanks have an overfilling prevention device to allow
room for expansion, the flow of propane automatically stops when the
overfill prevention device signals the tank is 80% full.
(Continued on next page.)
7
DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
PROPANE PROPERTIES /
CHARACTERISTICS:
FLAMMABILITY AND IGNITION
WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU:
Propane is a fuel; it will ignite and burn under the right conditions.
Propane is safe when properly stored, handled, transported, and used.
• Immediately react to any propane leak. Always check and follow the
fueling site’s safety procedures.
• Avoid ignition sources around propane.
UNSAFE CONDITIONS: PROPANE, IGNITION, AND FIRE
Three ingredients are needed to start and sustain combustion—fuel, oxygen, and an ignition source. Minimize possible
ignition sources that could lead to combustion.
UNSAFE CONDITIONS: BE AWARE OF POTENTIAL IGNITION SOURCES
No smoking.
Do not strike matches or light a cigarette
lighter.
Avoid sources of static electricity.
Do not use cell phones
and other electronic
devices.
Always turn off vehicle engine before refueling.
8
LESSON 3:
TYPES AND BASIC OPERATION OF AUTOGAS DISPENSERS
INTRODUCTION
In this lesson you will learn about the types and basic operation of autogas dispensers, including
equipment and features most commonly used at fueling sites.
At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
• Describe the different types of autogas dispensers.
• Identify autogas dispenser safety devices and explain and why these items are used when dispensing autogas.
• Describe when to use an emergency shutoff, and what actions you should take in this situation.
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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
FEATURES OF AUTOGAS VEHICLES
• Vehicle fuel systems are closed, pressurized systems
to keep the propane in its liquid state.
• Vehicle tank fill valves have threaded connections, so
the dispenser nozzle can be connected and tightened
to the fill valve.
• Autogas vehicle tanks are filled to only 80%. An
overfilling prevention device, located in the fuel tank,
stops fueling when the fuel level reaches 80%.
FEATURES OF AUTOGAS DISPENSERS
Autogas dispensing systems are very similar to gasoline or
diesel dispensing systems, with a few important differences:
• Autogas dispensing are closed, pressurized systems
to keep the propane in its liquid state.
• Autogas dispensers use a nozzle that has a closed,
threaded connection to maintain pressure while
transferring propane.
To dispense propane safely, be familiar with the specific
equipment you are working with and how to use it.
10
LESSON 3:TYPES AND BASIC OPERATION OF AUTOGAS DISPENSERS
COMPONENTS::
NOTES
DISPENSER DISPLAY
LOW EMISSION NOZZLE
HOSE ASSEMBLY
EMERGENCY SHUTOFF
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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
12
LESSON 4:
LESSON
AUTOGAS DISPENSER OPERATION
AUTOGAS
INTRODUCTION
In this lesson you will learn about general safety when dispensing autogas. You will also learn the
general actions to perform when you dispense autogas into a vehicle. As dispensing systems vary,
always follow your specific fueling site instructions when you dispense autogas.
At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
• Identify general safety guidelines you should follow when dispensing autogas.
• Identify emergency safety procedures and actions you should take when dispensing autogas.
• List the general actions, in order, to dispense autogas into a vehicle.
13
DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION
• Propane identification decals are mounted on the lower right rear of the
vehicle (above the bumper).
• Decal is black, diamond shaped with a luminous light silver or white border,
and with the word “PROPANE.”
Notes:
14
LESSON 4: AUTOGAS DISPENSER OPERATION
PROPANE TANK SAFETY FEATURES
• Autogas tanks have automatic safety devices that prevent overfilling.
• Autogas vehicle tanks are more puncture resistant, and withstand more
pressure when compared to a gasoline tank.
Notes:
SAFE DISPENSING HABITS
• Keep the dispensing area clear except for objects
necessary for dispensing.
• Vehicle ignition must be off before dispensing autogas.
• All ignition sources must be a minimum of 25 feet
away from the refueling site.
ΩΩ Do not strike matches or light a cigarette lighter.
ΩΩ Do not smoke.
ΩΩ Avoid sources of static electricity.
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
It is a code requirement that at least one fire extinguisher
be easily accessible at the fueling site. It is important to
note that fire extinguishers are not intended to put out
propane fires and can only cover a limited area when used.
They are effective, however, for small fires, such as those
involving combustible materials, and can be helpful in
creating an escape route for personnel.
Always look for the fire extinguisher at your fueling site prior
to refueling. Be aware of fueling site policies or procedures.
ΩΩ Do not use cell phones.
• Report any propane leaks immediately.
15
DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
UNCONTROLLED PROPANE LEAKS AND FIRES
Any uncontrolled release of propane or a fire can be extremely dangerous. Know the location of your fueling site’s
emergency shutdown device(s). Always place safety first!
PROPANE EMERGENCY ACTIONS
Follow these steps:
1. Shut down the dispenser.
Use the emergency shutoff(s).
2. Immediately evacuate the area.
Immediately, everyone in the affected area should move to a safe distance
from the spill or leak. Do not re-enter the area.
3. Call for help. After you are at a safe distance from the affected area, call 911 or the local
fire department.
4. When help arrives, do not interfere.
Emergency responders, including firefighters, HAZMAT crews, and
emergency medical technicians are the only personnel qualified to provide
leadership in emergencies involving propane. When the emergency
response team arrives, do not interfere.
Your fueling site should have specific instructions for you to follow in both
routine and emergency situations. Be aware of and follow fueling site
policies or procedures.
16
LESSON 4: AUTOGAS DISPENSER OPERATION
GENERAL PROCESS TO DISPENSE AUTOGAS
Just like a gasoline station and gasoline dispenser, each autogas fueling site and dispenser will have instructions on
how to use the dispensing equipment. The equipment at different fueling sites varies, so always follow instructions for
equipment at your fueling site. For more information, refer to Propane Autogas Dispenser Specifications in Resources.
The autogas dispensing process varies, based on the type of nozzle used. The steps below are based on using a typical
nozzle for autogas fueling.
Follow these steps:
1. Turn off the vehicle.
2. Know personal protective equipment (PPE)
requirements and follow them.
3. Check there are no open flames or other ignition
sources within 25 feet near the vehicle refueling.
4. Open the fuel door, and then unscrew the dust
cap from the fill valve.
5. Check the seal, gasket or O-ring for any
tears, breaks, or cuts. If damaged or missing,
do not dispense until replaced.
(Continued on next page.)
17
DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
6. Remove the nozzle from the dispenser.
7. Screw the nozzle
tightly on the fill valve,
ensuring a proper fit.
An improper fit could
cause a leak.
Improperly threaded
nozzle on the fill
valve may lead to a
dangerous leak.
8. Activate the dispenser (this varies by the
equipment, push to start button shown here).
9. Pull the handle on the dispenser nozzle to
start fueling. When the fuel level in the tank
reaches 80% storage capacity, the fuel flow will
automatically stop (varies by the equipment).
10. Release the handle, then deactivate the dispenser
(varies by equipment).
11. When you release
the handle and/
or unscrew the
nozzle, a small
release of autogas
vapor may occur.
If more than a short
release occurs,
follow fueling site
instructions to
resolve.
(Continued on next page.)
18
LESSON 4: AUTOGAS DISPENSER OPERATION
12. After unscrewing the nozzle:
• Return the nozzle to the
dispenser.
• Replace the cap on the fill
valve; and
• Shut the fuel fill door.
13. If applicable, record refueling information.
19
DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
20
LESSON 5:
DEMONSTRATION, PRACTICE, AND PERFORMANCE TEST
INTRODUCTION
During this part of the training, you will watch someone explain and demonstrate the proper
method to dispense autogas into a vehicle. During this demonstration, ask any questions about
the equipment or the process to dispense autogas. You will also have hands-on practice so you
can dispense autogas, and then you will have a short performance test to demonstrate that you
can safely dispense autogas into a vehicle.
At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
• Perform all tasks, effectively and in proper sequence, to dispense autogas into a vehicle.
21
DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
DURING THE DEMONSTRATION, PAY ATTENTION TO THESE ITEMS:
DESCRIPTION OF STEP
Where is the system emergency shutoff at your fueling site?
Do you know how to use this and when to use this?
Where is the fire extinguisher at your fueling site?
Do you know how to use this and when to use it?
What is the emergency action plan at your fueling site?
What actions you should take in the event of an emergency?
Look at your fueling site; in the event of an autogas leak, where would the vapor accumulate (where are any
low-lying areas)?
22
LESSON 5: DEMONSTRATION, PRACTICE, AND PERFORMANCE TEST
DESCRIPTION OF STEP
Do you understand the autogas storage and dispensing equipment and systems at your fueling site?
What PPE must you use at your fueling site?
Where do you obtain PPE?
Where are the printed instructions (autogas dispenser fueling procedures) on the autogas dispenser at your
fueling site?
Demonstration: Watch and listen as the instructor (or designee) describes and demonstrates the process to fuel
vehicle with autogas.
If you have any questions during the demonstration, ask for more information.
23
SHORT PERFORMANCE TEST
Locate the system emergency shutoff at your fueling site. Explain when you would use it and how you
would use it.
Locate the fire extinguisher at your fueling site. Explain when you would use it and how you would use it.
Explain the PPE you must use at your fueling site. Obtain the PPE you will need prior to refueling.
Locate and read the printed instructions (autogas dispenser fueling procedures) on the autogas dispenser.
Fuel a vehicle:
Wearing appropriate PPE, and using the printed instructions on the autogas dispenser, describe your
actions as you fuel a vehicle with autogas.
• Correctly connect nozzle to fill valve.
• Correctly disconnect nozzle from fill valve.
Trainee name: Date: Instructor name: Date: 24
RESOURCES
RESOURCES
www.autogasusa.org
This Propane Education & Research Council (PERC)-sponsored website
provides information on the several different types of propane-autogasfueled vehicles (and other types of propane equipment), fueling with
autogas, adoption incentives, and autogas webinars.
www.propanesafety.com
This PERC website provides information and training dates for the
Propane Emergencies program.
www.afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/propane.html
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center website
delivers information on various alternative-fueled vehicles, including
those fueled by autogas.
www.afdc.energy.gov/laws/
The U.S. Department of Energy’s website with searchable federal and
state laws and incentives.
www1.eere.energy.gov/cleancities/national parks.html
The U.S. Department of Energy Clean Cities National Park Initiative offers
a website where you can learn more about how autogas is used in our
national park system.
www.propanemarc.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=4714
Propane Autogas Dispenser Specifications.
25
DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS
26
PROPANE
AUTOGAS
CERTIFICATE OF TRAINING
Propane Education & Research Council (PERC)
has successfully completed the
Dispensing Propane Autogas Training Module
To be filled in by the Employee:
This is to certify that on , I, (Employee's signature)
completed the PERC Training Module for Dispensing Propane Autogas. I understood the training, I have had an
opportunity to ask questions, and all of my questions were properly answered. I have had hands-on practice to
dispense autogas into a vehicle, and can effectively perform this task.
To be filled in by the Employer or the Trainer:
This is to certify that on , the above-named employee completed Dispensing
Propane Autogas training. The training materials used to meet the training requirements are available at the
employer's office.
(Employer) (Trainer)
(Address of Person Providing the Training)