In Canada, each province has authorities that regulate the storage, handling, and transportation of propane gas. The responsibilities of these institutions are very broad as they also include the establishment of regulations for facilities, equipment, appliances, and contractors using propane. They are also responsible for the administration and enforcement of safety codes and standards, inspections, licensing and permits for the propane industry.
In Quebec, the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) is responsible for implementing and enforcing the CSA B149.2 Propane Storage and Handling Code, developed and published by CSA Group, also known as the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
In Ontario, in accordance with the Technical Standards and Safety Act and other applicable regulations, codes and standards, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority’s (TSSA) Fuels Safety Program regulates the transportation, storage, handling and use of propane and other fuels
TSSA
TSSA’s Fuels Safety Program administers all fuel safety services, specifically safety in the transportation, storage, handling and use of hydrocarbon fuels, including propane.
Ontario residents must comply with the Propane Storage and Handling Code CAN/CSA B149.2 and the Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code CAN/CSA B149.1. The legislation is designed to ensure that all installations meet the propane gas code’s requirements and are in good working order.
TSSA Inspection
To ensure the safe transportation, storage, handling and use of propane gas, TSSA contracts companies to perform regular inspections, verifying compliance with current standards. Indeed, all equipment, whether new or old, requires maintenance and inspection every 10 years, as a poorly maintained installation can fail at any time and be dangerous.
During an inspection, several elements will be verified, including:
- Compliance with TSSA standards for ground level and underground propane tanks.
- Leak and spill risk assessment.
- The completeness of the propane supply gas pipe system.
- Various parts such as regulators, joints, fittings, valves, taps, etc.
- A complete inspection of all appliances and pipework.
Then a report on the appliances and hazardous situations is prepared and given to the owners.
At Propane Levac Propane Inc. headquartered in Saint-Isidore, Ontario, near the Quebec border, we comply with TSSA standards and all our facilities are inspected regularly because safety is very important.
Source : Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ), The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA)