Gas safety

If your event involves the use of gas for cooking, heating or anything else, follow safety procedures to prevent accidents or emergencies. Gas leaks, fires or explosions cause serious harm to people, property and the environment. You should read and understand Energy Safe Victoria’s Code of Practice for the safe use of LPGas at public events in Victoria.

Gas equipment and appliances

• All gas-powered equipment (including stoves, heaters and grills) must be certified by a licensed gas fitter and comply with Australian Standards (AS/NZS 5601 for gas installations). Regularly inspect and service gas appliances.
• Fully train all staff and contractors using gas-powered equipment on how to operate it safely. Provide instructions on lighting, operation and emergency shutdown procedures.

Prevent gas leaks

• Before the event, and during the event if necessary, test for leaks on all gas connections. You can use a soapy water solution to check for bubbles or use a commercially available leak detection product.
• Make sure gas shutoff valves are accessible and operational at all times. Label them clearly and make sure they're easy to locate in case of an emergency.

Safe storage

Designate a specific area for gas cylinders and equipment where there's no risk of physical impact (such as in walkways or crowded areas). Secure it and mark the area clearly. 

• Store gas cylinders:
  • in a well-ventilated, upright position
  • at least 3m away from open flames, ignition sources or flammable materials
  • away from areas where the temperature exceeds 50°C or in direct sunlight
  • secured with safety chains, cages or brackets so they don't fall over.
• Before the event, inspect gas cylinders for signs of damage, corrosion or leaks. Only use cylinders that are in good condition and have been tested and tagged by a licensed professional.
• When transporting gas cylinders make sure they're upright and properly secured.

Ventilation and exhausts

• Gas-powered appliances need proper ventilation to avoid dangerous gases like carbon monoxide building up.
  • For outdoor events, set up gas appliances in areas with natural airflow.
  • For indoor events, use proper extraction fans or ventilation systems.
• Appliances like generators, heaters and cooking equipment need to have exhaust hoses in good condition and correctly installed to direct gases away from the event site. This is especially important for food stalls or kitchen areas.

Emergency procedures

• Prepare an evacuation plan and make sure staff, volunteers and contractors are familiar with it in case of a gas leak or related emergency.
• Provide appropriate fire extinguishers for areas where gas is used (for example, foam or dry powder extinguishers for cooking equipment). They need to be easily accessible, clearly marked and regularly checked.
• Make sure First Aiders are trained to respond to gas-related emergencies including gas inhalation, burns or injuries from equipment failure.

Workplace health and safety compliance

• Check that contractors and vendors using gas-powered equipment hold the necessary WorkCover insurance. All equipment must meet local health and safety regulations and relevant certification must be provided before the event.
• All gas installations, modifications or repairs must be carried out by a licensed gas fitter. This includes setting up or maintaining gas appliances, pipes and connections.
• Contractors using gas equipment must provide a Risk Assessment and Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) to identify and manage any potential hazards. Find out more about SWMS using the SWMS interactive guidance tool.

Gas safety signage

• Clearly label gas cylinders, appliances and storage areas with signs indicating the presence of gas and instructions on emergency procedures (for example, 'Gas Cylinder Storage Area – No Smoking').
• Display clear operating instructions for gas appliances or equipment including lighting procedures, safety precautions and emergency shut-off instructions.

Post-event considerations

• Safely store or dispose of empty or unused gas cylinders after the event in line with local regulations.
• Conduct a post-event inspection to check that gas-related equipment and cylinders are properly secured and that no hazardous conditions remain on-site.