Draft of TECHNICAL STANDARD

FOR

THE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION,

MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR OF SYSTEMS FOR

THE STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION OF

LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS AS FUEL FOR

MOTOR VEHICLES

Elaboreted by : Dr. Ion Irimia ZECHERU- CEN Expert

BUCHAREST - ROMANIA
NOVEMBER 2009
1. Object and terminology

1.1. The object of the present technical standards is to lay down the minimum required
conditions for the design, construction, operation, maintenance, repair, modification,
modernisation, withdrawal and post-use of systems for the storage and distribution of
liquefied petroleum gas used as fuel for motor vehicles with conversion engines for this
type of fuel (known as LPG vehicles, LPGc, autogas), referred to below as autogas, and
also all measures concerning prevention and operational intervention to reduce social,
economic and ecological consequences in the case of events arising in such systems.

1.2. The design and construction of systems for the storage and distribution of autogas
shall ensure compliance with requirements relating to quality and safety in operation in
accordance with legislation in force.

1.3. The terms and abbreviations used in the present technical standards are explained
in Annex 1. The standards, technical regulations, etc. referred to in the present
standards refer to the edition in force.

2. Scope

2.1. The present technical standards apply to new systems for the storage and
distribution of autogas for motor vehicles and also to the modernisation of existing
systems:
1. Independent systems:
a. with storage in horizontal or vertical (overground) pressure vessels, in
(skid-type) monoblock systems, with a maximum total storage capacity of 13 m3 water;
b. with storage in horizontal or vertical (overground) pressure vessels that
are separated from the distribution point, with a maximum total storage capacity of 20
m3 water;
c. with storage in horizontal pressure vessels that are semi-buried, covered
or buried (underground) and separated from the distribution point (distributor), with a
maximum total storage capacity of 50 m3 water;
2. Mixed (common) systems with other fuel distribution systems:
a. with storage in horizontal or vertical (overground) pressure vessels, in
(skid-type) monoblock systems, with a maximum total storage capacity of 13 m3 water;
b. with storage in horizontal or vertical (overground) pressure vessels that
are separated from the distribution point, with a maximum total storage capacity of 20
m3 water;
c. with storage in horizontal pressure vessels that are semi-buried, covered
or buried (underground) and separated from the distribution point, with a maximum total
storage capacity of 30 m3 water;
2.3. The present technical standards do not apply to:
a. fuel conversion systems installed on all kinds of motor vehicles or on
recreational craft;
b. systems pertaining to transportable pressure vessels (vehicle tanks) which
equip the autogas transport vehicle with the storage and distribution system;

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 c. systems for supplying domestic and/or industrial consumers with LPG;
d. systems which use liquefied natural gas (LPG) or compressed natural gas
for vehicles (CNGV) as fuel.
2.4. The technical quality requirements for autogas are set out in SR EN 589 and in
Annex 2, and the safety requirements concerning the use of autogas are set out in
Annex 3.

3. General requirements governing systems for the

storage and distribution of autogas

3.1. The standard SR EN 14678-2 Annex 1 Figure 2 presents, by way of information, a

skeleton diagram for an overground system for the storage and distribution of autogas.
3.2. The standard SR EN 14678-2 Annex 1 Figure 3 and 4 presents, by way of
information, a skeleton diagram for an underground system for the storage and
distribution of autogas fitted with surface and submersible pumps.
3.3. Independent systems for the storage and distribution of autogas in motor vehicles
shall be sited in individual locations specifically arranged for the distribution of autogas.
In establishing the site/location, the siting principles set out in article 3.2 (1 – 11) of the
LPG Technical Code shall be observed.
3.4. Systems for the storage and distribution of autogas in motor vehicles shall,
depending on the structural type, be chosen from the following component parts:
a. pressure vessel/vessels;
b. transfer pump;
c. autogas distributor;
d. liquid- and gas-phase autogas engineering pipe system;
e. equipment support system;
f. foundation;
g. administrative, commercial and/or auxiliary buildings (structures) relating, as
appropriate, to the distribution system;
h. fire detection and extinguishing installations.
Pressure vessel(s)
3.5. Horizontal or vertical pressure vessels for the storage of autogas shall be installed
on the surface (overground) on individual foundations or on a metal monoblock
structure mounted on a foundation (in skid-type systems).
3.6. Horizontal pressure vessels for the storage of autogas in a semi-buried, covered or
buried (underground) location shall be installed on individual foundations, in tubs or on a
layer of clean and settled sand.
3.7. Pressure vessels installed on the surface (overground) which form part of (skid-
type) monoblock systems for the distribution of autogas shall have a total storage
capacity of ≤ 13 m3 water.

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3.8. Pressure vessels installed on the surface (overground) which form part of
distribution systems with vessels separated from the autogas distributor shall have a
total storage capacity of ≤ 20 m3 water.
3.9. Installed semi-buried, covered and/or buried (underground) pressure vessels that
are separate from the autogas distributor and which form part of independent
distribution systems shall have a total storage capacity of ≤ 50 m3 water.
3.10. Installed semi-buried, covered and/or buried (underground) pressure vessels that
are separate from the autogas distributor and which form part of mixed distribution
systems shall have a total storage capacity of ≤ 30 m3 water.
3.11. Semi-buried, covered and/or buried (underground) pressure vessels which form
part of all autogas distribution systems shall be installed separately from the distributor,
in enclosed locations and marked with hazard labelling accompanied by risk and safety
phrases.
3.12. Pressure vessels installed on the surface (overground) which form part of autogas
distribution systems with separate vessels shall be installed separately from the
distributor, in enclosed locations and marked with hazard labelling accompanied by risk
and safety phrases specific to the autogas.
3.13. Covered, buried (underground) and semi-buried pressure vessels shall be
enclosed by a guard made of metallic mesh, measuring 1.80 m in height, with a door(s)
preventing access by unauthorised persons, with visible labelling, inscribed with hazard
labelling, and accompanied by risk and safety phrases relating to the autogas.
3.14. The area inside and all around (over a range of approx. 3 m) shall be stripped of
vegetation, cleared of rubbish and foreign objects and shall be covered with gravel or
sand in the surrounding area.
3.15. For identification purposes, the layout of liquid- and gas-phase autogas pipes not
located on the surface/overground shall be marked appropriately.
Transfer pump
3.16. The transfer pump (whether centrifugal, rotary or with a submersibly or externally
installed column) for feeding the distributor shall be designed in accordance with the
essential requirements of Directive 98/ 37/EC .
3.17. The pump shall be powered by an electric motor of Explosion-proof construction
suitable for the working liquid, which must be constructed in accordance with the
essential requirements of:
a. Directive 94/9/EC laying down conditions for the placement on the market
of equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially
explosive atmospheres, with subsequent amendments;
b. Directive 73/23/EEC concerning safeguarding of the safety of users of
low-voltage electrical safety equipment, with subsequent amendments;
c. Directive 89/336/EEC concerning electromagnetic compatibility;
d. Directive 2001/95/EC concerning general product safety.
3.18. The electrical control panel for controlling the actuation of transfer pumps located
in zones with a potentially explosive atmosphere shall be of Explosion-proof design in
accordance with the essential requirements of Directive 94/9/EC.

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3.19. The electrical control panel for controlling the actuation of transfer pumps may be
constructed and of standard design, and shall be sited in a hazard zone 2 location.
3.20. Cutting-off of the power supply to transfer pumps may be effected via:
- the local switch on the system’s local panel;
- the master switch on the master distribution panel;
- the emergency electric power supply shutdown button.
3.21. The electrical installation shall be designed and constructed in accordance with
standards NP 099 Standards for the design, construction, verification and operation of
electrical installations in explosion hazard zones.
3.22. The transfer pump shall be fitted on the intake pipe with a Y filter that allows for
periodic cleaning without affecting the integrity of piping.
Autogas distributor assembly
3.23. The autogas distributor is a distribution system comprising a degasser, a
volumetric flow meter, a system for recording and displaying quantities distributed that is
fitted with mechanical and electronic memory and an internal system of specific pipes
and fittings.
3.24. Distribution shall be carried out via a flexible tube (hose) fitted with a gun with a
leak-tight coupling to the motor vehicle vessel/tank.
The length of the autogas distributor hose shall not exceed 5 m, and the hose shall be
fitted with a non-return valve to prevent accidental start-up of the motor vehicle. The
inflexible part of the hose shall be secured by the secure attachment of foundations or a
support for the distributor.
It is recommended that the hose conforms to the dimensions and test requirements set
out in SR EN 13760 – Automatic LPG filling system for light and heavy duty vehicles.
Nozzle, test requirements and dimensions.
3.26. The volumetric flow meter shall be provided with facilities for recording and/or
listing quantities of autogas distributed. The volumetric flow meter shall be verified and
authorised by the national metrology authority in accordance with the legislative
provisions in force. The sealing of measuring equipment shall be carried out in
accordance with the specifications of the model approval.
Liquid-- and gas
Liquid gas--phase autogas engineering pipe system
3.27. The engineering pipe system for autogas comprises:
- liquid-phase piping pertaining to the transfer pump intake;
- liquid-phase piping pertaining to pressurisation of the transfer pump to the
distributor;
- the gas-phase return/manifold pipe of the distributor degasser.
3.28. At least the following equipment shall be fitted to liquid-phase autogas piping
pertaining to the transfer pump intake:
- manually operated safety cock fitted to the storage tank drainage
connector. The function of the cock is to isolate the tank in the event of defects in the
remotely operated cock and also technical checks thereon;
- manually operated cock or pneumatically, hydraulically or electrically
operated systems with remote shutdown/start-up; the remote system for pneumatically
operating the cock comprises an air compressor, which pressurises dry air at a pressure
of ≥ 0.6 MPa (6 bar) and the actuating air line. Hydraulic or electrical actuation of the
cock shall be carried out in accordance with the safety requirements of Directive
94/9/EC, Directive 89/336/EEC and 89/336/EEC with subsequent amendments;

5
 - overflow valve fitted upstream of the remote-controlled cock. The overflow
valve may also be fitted inside the storage tank, directly on the drainage connection;
- Y filter with facilities for periodic cleaning without affecting the integrity of
the piping.
The order for fitting equipment pertaining to the liquid-phase piping to the
transfer pump intake is recommended in the skeleton diagrams for the storage and
distribution system set out in standard SR EN 14678-2 Annex A.
3.29. The liquid-phase autogas piping pertaining to pressurisation of the transfer pump
shall be mounted in a branch to the distributor, fitted with an isolating cock and a branch
for discharging excess autogas.
3.30. The excess liquid-gas autogas piping shall discharge the excess product in the
storage tank, via a differential valve and a bypass fitting. Upstream of the storage tank
return, an insulating cock shall be fitted to the piping.
3.31. The gas-phase autogas manifold pipe of the distributor degasser shall be fitted
with an insulating cock at the return to the storage tank.
3.32. In the case of autogas storage and distribution systems fitted with several
storage tanks, distributor feeding may be ensured with a single transfer pump.
3.33. The transfer pump may be connected via a piping system to all the vessels and
shall be fitted with individual fittings for isolating the vessels so that the use of
simultaneous intake of autogas from several vessels is not possible.
Metallic frame (support) for supporting equipment
3.34. The (skid-type) monoblock system frame shall ensure stability, strength and non-
deformability under the loads to which it is subjected.
3.35. In the case of systems comprising surface vessels (overground) with a capacity
of more than 5 m3 water, the frame shall be designed so that it contains a fixed metallic
structure, with a ladder for accessing all fittings on the upper generator of the storage
tank(s).
3.36. The metallic frame shall be fitted with sufficient welded terminals for earthing the
system equipment.
3.37. The metallic frame shall be mounted on a foundation constructed in accordance
with article 3.38, projecting at least 30 cm beyond the level of the system platform and
fitted with a solid protective balustrade throughout the access zone for motor vehicles
and for tanks for supplying the system with autogas.

Foundations
3.38. The foundations for the fully fitted metallic frame, the distributor for systems
comprising separate vessels and the transfer pump for systems with semi-buried,
covered and buried (underground) vessels shall be designed in accordance with the
standards relating to the design of direct foundation structures and standards relating to
the antiseismic design of structures and shall be constructed so as to ensure the
stability and integrity in operation of the systems.

3.39. The materials used for the construction of foundations shall conform to the quality
requirements of Directive 89/ 106/EEC laying down conditions for the placement on the
market of construction products, with subsequent amendments and additions.

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3.40. Semi-buried, covered and buried (underground) vessels may be mounted:

- directly on foundation supports in specially arranged pits, with sand of at least 30 cm

thickness on the entire external surface of the vessel or in a concreted tub;

- directly on a bed of sand whose thickness on the entire seating surface shall not be
less than 30 cm;

- semi-buried and covered storage vessels in accordance with the regulations may be
covered with a layer of plant soil on the layer of sand, separated appropriately.

3.41. In establishing the siting of pits or foundation tubs for vessels, health protection
zones and wet, floodable zones as defined in the legislation in force shall be provided.
3.42. A system for monitoring the scale of any autogas leakage shall be provided in the
sand-concreted tub foundation systems (Annex 7).
Administrative and commercial buildings at distribution stations
3.43. (1) Administrative, commercial and/or auxiliary buildings (structures) pertaining to
the autogas storage and distribution system shall be designed and located in
accordance with the provisions of standards NP 004 and other specified standards.
(2) The cabin of the independent autogas storage and distribution system in a SKID-
type monoblock system shall be exempted from this requirement and may be designed
and constructed from incombustible material as well as from materials in combustibility
class C1, C2 or C3.
Fire detection and fire fire--extinguishing installations and utility
installations for buildings
3.44. Extinguishing installations pertaining to autogas storage and distribution systems
shall be designed, constructed and operated in conformity with the provisions of
standards relating to the design, construction and operation of fire-extinguishing
facilities.

3.45. Administrative, commercial and/or auxiliary buildings (structures) for autogas

storage and distribution systems shall be designed for fire safety and fitted with
technical means of preventing and extinguishing fires in accordance with the provisions
of standards relating to the safety in fire of structures, standards relating to the design,
construction and operation of fire-extinguishing facilities, standards relating to the
design and construction of fire detection systems and burglary systems for buildings
and article 3.2 of the LPG Technical Code and in particular articles 3.2.3 and 3.2.4.

3.46. Autogas storage and distribution systems fitted with SKID-type monoblock
installations, overground vessels or with semi-buried vessels in mixed and independent
stations situated in locations served by the public water system which are equipped with
a road hydrant located at least 50 m away shall be fitted with the necessary accessories
to draw water (surface hydrant or underground hydrant with a portable hydrant with
cocks, “C”-type hoses, pressurisation tubing fitted with nozzles, keys for connectors,
etc).

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3.47. Autogas storage and distribution systems fitted with SKID-type monoblock
systems, overground vessels or with semi-buried vessels in mixed and independent
stations situated in locations served by the public water system whose nearest hydrant
is more than 50 m away shall be fitted with external hydrant installations, with the
necessary accessories for drawing water (surface hydrant or underground hydrant with
a portable hydrant with cocks, “C”-type hoses, pressurisation tubing fitted with nozzles,
keys for connectors, etc.) being provided.

3.48. For locations not served by the public water system or external hydrants but
where there is a natural source of water (lake, pond, river, etc.) no more than 400 m
from the mixed or independent distribution station which can ensure the necessary flow
rates for intervention, the owner shall provide a ramp to supply mobile or fixed pumps in
the event of fire.

3.49. (a) For storage and distribution systems in mixed or independent stations
with SKID-type monoblock installations, overground vessels or with semi-buried vessels
with a storage capacity of ≥ 13 m3 water, situated in locations not served by the public
water system or external hydrants, a minimum reserve of water shall be provided to
extinguish fires from outside over a period of 60 minutes with a flow rate of at least 2.5
l/s;
(b) The water reserve may be provided directly from basins, vessels or natural sources
with the aid of mobile or fixed pumps, with the provision of the necessary accessories
for drawing water pursuant to article 3.45 being ensured.

3.50. The means of first intervention in the provision of autogas storage and
distribution systems in the vicinity of independent or mixed stations shall be provided as
follows:
a. Autogas storage and distribution systems fitted with SKID-type monoblock
installations, overground or semi-buried vessels in mixed and independent stations shall
be fitted with at least the following:
- a portable powder-type extinguisher (at least P50 or equivalent);
- three portable powder-type extinguishers (at least P6 or equivalent) or equivalent with
aerosol generators;
b. Autogas storage and distribution systems fitted with underground or covered vessels
shall be fitted with at least the following:
- a portable powder-type extinguisher (at least P20 or equivalent);
- three portable powder-type extinguishers (at least P6 or equivalent) or equivalent with
an aerosol generator.

3.51. In the case of mixed fuel distribution stations, the provision of portable and
transportable extinguishers provided for in standards.

3.52. Autogas storage and distribution systems and explosion hazard zones in the
vicinity of independent stations shall not be traversed by water, gas, electricity, heating
or sewage systems other than those of the stations in question.

3.53. Utility installations (electricity, sanitation, heating, ventilation/air conditioning, gas,

automation, etc.) shall be designed, constructed and operated in accordance with
standards and specific regulations in force.

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4. Technical conditions for the design of pressure
equipment pertaining to autogas storage and distribution
systems

4.1. Pressure equipment (pressure vessels for autogas storage and the engineering
pressure piping system) pertaining to autogas storage and distribution systems in motor
vehicles together with safety accessories and pressure accessories shall meet the
design, manufacturing, testing, marking and labelling requirements deemed essential on
safety grounds, as classified in accordance with LPG Technical Code - Table 2
(Directive 97/23/EC-PED).
4.2. In addition to the factors in article 3.17 of the LPG Technical Code, the following
factors shall, in designing pressure equipment (storage pressure vessels and
engineering piping), also be taken into consideration in order to ensure that the
pressure equipment is safe throughout its useful life:
a. internal/external pressure (maximum permissible service pressure 1.8
MPa (18 bar), corresponding to maximum permissible service temperatures of +500C
for propane, and external pressure of 0.1 MPa (1 bar);
b. operating temperature and ambient temperature (maximum permissible
service temperature of +500C, and minimum permissible operating temperature not
exceeding -200C;
c. static pressure and the mass of contents under operating and test
conditions;
d. loads due to traffic, wind, snow and earthquake conditions;
e. reactive forces and moments arising from mountings, fixings, piping, etc.;
f. relevant safety coefficients, to prevent all kinds of failures;
g. the possibility of the simultaneous occurrence of various loads;
h. corrosion and erosion, fatigue, etc;
i. the possibility of the decomposition of unstable fluids.

4.3. In selecting accessories for controlling pressures, the designer shall take account of
the following aspects:
a. the state of the fluid contents: gas or liquid;
b. the classification of the fluid contents: group 1 or group 2;
c. the maximum permissible pressure;
d. the volume in litres or the nominal diameter, as appropriate.

4.4. The design calculation methods shall conform to the provisions of LPG Technical
Code, Table 2 (Directive 97/23/EC), point 11.
4.5. It is recommended that design be carried out in accordance with Directive 97/23/EC
harmonised standards ensuring compliance with the essential requirements set out in
Annexes ZA and ZB thereto (which set out the relationship between the provisions of
the standard and the essential requirements of Directive 97/23/EC.
4.6. The harmonised standards recommended in article 4.5. are as follows:
a. SR EN 12542 – Static welded steel cylindrical tanks, serially produced for the
storage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) having a volume not greater than 13 m3 and
for installation above ground. Design and manufacture;

9
b. SR EN 14075 – Static welded steel cylindrical tanks, serially produced for the
storage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) having a volume not greater than 13 m3 and
for installation underground. Design and manufacture;
c. SR EN 13445-3 – Unfired pressure vessels – Part 3: Design;
d. SR EN 13480-3 – Metallic industrial piping. Part 3: Design and calculation.
4.7. Other design standards and codes may also be used provided that the designer
takes due account of the essential requirements of Directive 97/23/EC Annex 1 and
establishes the correlation between codes and essential requirements.
4.8. The following aspects shall further be specified by the construction design, in
accordance with Directive 97/23/EC Annex 1:
a. measures to ensure handling/operation and functioning under conditions
of safety;
b. appropriate measures for emptying and venting pressure equipment;
c. measures concerning filling/emptying operations, including measures
concerning the metrological calibration of storage vessels fitted with
percentage level indicators. Tables with temperature-related density
corrections for autogas densities at 150C are set out in the LPG Technical
Code: Annex 4;
d. measures concerning protection against the breaching of permissible
operating limits for pressure equipment;
e. measures concerning compliance with essential requirements governing
the design of assemblies of autogas storage and distribution systems.
4.9. Buried (underground), covered, semi-buried and overground storage vessels with a
capacity of more than 5 m3 shall have an inspection port with a nominal diameter of ≥
500 mm. Vessels without inspection ports shall not have a service life of more than 10
years.
4.10. The equipping of pressure vessels for autogas storage shall conform to the
requirements of Table 1.
Table 1. Equipping of pressure vessels for autogas storage
Operation in Operation in Link with the
Function the gaseous the liquid articles in Directive
phase phase 97/23/EC Annex 1
Pressure limiter M M 2.11.2; 7.3
Purging O O 2.5
Draining/emptying of liquid M M 2.9
phase
Indication or control of M M 2.10
maximum fill level
Filling M M 2.9
Discharge of gaseous phase M O 2.9
Return of gaseous phase N/A M 2.9
Return of liquid phase N/A M 2.9
Temperature indicator O M 2.12
Pressure indicator O M 2.10
Liquid level indicator M M 2.10
Safety accessories for directly M M 2.11.
limiting the pressure
Equipotential and earthing M M 2.10
connectors

M = mandatory; O = optional; N/A not applicable

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NOTE: Threaded connectors may have dimensions of no more than ND 50; it is recommended that leak-tightness is
ensured with sealing products and/or mastics pursuant to SR EN 751-2, SR EN 751-3.

4.11. Examples of safety accessories for directly limiting pressure include the
following: pressure relief valves, pressure limiters and hydrostatic pressure limiters.
4.12. In the case of buried vessels, the following variants may also be adopted for
limiting pressure:
a. covering with earth to a thickness of more than 0.5 m;
b. two independent overfill protection systems: one of the automatic type and the
other of the manual type with a local indication of the maximum fill level;
c. two overpressure monitoring systems (presostats which cut off the inlet/return
pipe for the liquid and gas phases);
d. protection of the vessel casing against any risks of fire inside the compartment
for accessing fittings or the emergency system.
4.13. In the case of piping, it shall be ensured by design and construction that the risk
of overstressing of flanges, couplings, compensators or hoses due to unauthorised free
movements or the occurrence of excessive forces is adequately offset by supporting,
strengthening, anchoring, aligning or pretensioning devices.
4.14. Special attention shall be paid to the possibility of the occurrence of failures due
to turbulence and vortices which may arise in the flow profile of the autogas via intake
piping and the possibility of the occurrence of the phenomenon of fatigue due to
vibration in piping.
4.15. Branch points shall be marked at the design stage, with the fluid contained being
indicated, and discharge valves shall be provided between branches with shut-off
fittings to take up the thermal expansion of the autogas during hot periods. A table of
volume corrections at 150C, relating to density at 150C, and a table of compressibility
factors at pressure differences are set out in the LPG Technical Code: Annex 4.
4.16. The need for protecting autogas pressure equipment against corrosion by design
shall be provided for, in accordance with the provisions of article 3.16 of the LPG
Technical Code. All semi-buried, covered and buried (underground) equipment shall be
compulsorily given cathodic protection (Annex 5).
4.17. In selecting the method of cathodic protection (with current injection or sacrificial
anodes), the following standards are to be taken into account:
a. Construction guide concerning corrosion protection of steel structures;
b. Guide to the design, construction and operation of anticorrosion protection for
buried steel vessels;
c. Design guide concerning corrosion protection of metallic structures;
and the use of the following standards is recommended:
a. SR EN 12954 – Cathodic protection of buried or immersed metallic structures.
General principles and application for pipelines;
b. SR EN 13636 – Cathodic protection of buried metallic tanks and related piping;
c. SR EN 12499 – Cathodic protection of metallic structures.
4.18. The stipulation of requirements concerning materials for the incorporation or
coverage (granules, aggregate, location of water table, etc.) of buried and/or covered
pipes made of metallic material and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and their location
shall be taken into account when ensuring stability and determining other loads on
piping.

11
4.19. To prevent the appearance of cracking and pitting arising from electrostatic
discharges on the outside of HDPE tubing, suitable compensatory measures in
accordance with the electrical potential of the ground shall be taken.
4.20. The discharge voltage required for the occurrence of the phenomena referred to
in article 4.19. depends upon the dielectric constant of the material and its thickness.
4.21. Buried/underground and/or covered HDPE piping shall not intersect other runs of
piping or electrical cabling.
4.22. Metallic piping on the installed underground/buried and/covered portion shall be
fitted with electrical insulating elements.

Materials
4.23. Materials used in the construction of pressure equipment shall be compatible with
the autogas.
4.24. It is recommended that materials used in the construction of pressure equipment
conform to the following harmonised standards:
a. SR EN 13445-2 – Unfired pressure vessels - Part 2. Materials;
b. SR EN 13480-2 – Metallic industrial piping. - Part 2. Materials.
and comply with the requirements set out in the LPG Technical Code: Table 2.
4.25. The following materials may be used in the construction of engineering piping,
with the conditioning referred to in article 3.15 of the LPG Technical Code:
- metallic materials (layouts in carbon steel, stainless steel, copper);
- high-density polyethylene for gaseous-phase autogas at a service pressure below 0.4
MPa (4 bar) for underground and/or covered runs.
4.26. All materials shall have quality certification and be accompanied by declarations
of conformity in accordance with Directive 97/23/EC.
4.27. 4.28. Other materials may also be used on condition that the testing of
replacement materials is consistently comparable with the requirements set out in:
Table 2(Directive 97/23/EC Annex 1 ) and article 3.13 of the LPG Technical Code.
4.29. Metallic materials used in the construction of pressure equipment and
safety accessories shall have a producer-guaranteed energy at break (KV) or impact
strength (KCV) at the minimum authorised service temperature of the equipment.
4.30. Sealing materials shall be compatible with the autogas and have
documentation of quality certification or, as applicable, a technical product certificate.
Natural rubber shall not be used for seals that operate with autogas.
4.31. In selecting materials for the other components of autogas storage and
distribution systems, account shall be taken of the specific working conditions and also
additional and accidental stresses, and the components shall be accompanied by
declarations of conformity or technical product certificates.
dangerous
Classification of danger ous areas
4.32. The classification of dangerous areas for autogas storage and distribution
systems shall be carried out in accordance with the following provisions:
a. Directive 94/9/EC ATEX laying down conditions for the placement on the
market of equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive
atmospheres, with subsequent amendments;

12
 b. Harmonised standards to Directive 94/9/EC ATEX relating to equipment and
protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres;
c. The recommendations of SR EN 60079-10 Electrical apparatus for explosive
gas atmospheres – Part 10. Classification of hazardous areas.

4.33. Explosive hazard zones are defined as follows:

1. zone 0 which corresponds to an area in which a gaseous explosive
atmosphere is present permanently or for long periods of time, under normal system
operating conditions (more than 1000 hours/year) and includes:
a. the interior of the autogas storage vessel;
b. the interior of autogas road tankers for the storage and distribution
system;
2. zone 1 which corresponds to an area in which the occurrence of gaseous
explosive atmospheres under normal system operating conditions (10 - 1000
hours/year) is likely and includes:
a. the interior of the distributor casing;
b. the interior of transfer pumps;
c. the space around pressure relief valves;
d. the vehicle tank feed point;
e. the area around the vent line of transfer pumps;
f. the area for unwinding vehicle tank hoses;
g. the area relating to the motor vehicle feed point;
3. zone 2 which corresponds to an area in which the occurrence of a
gaseous explosive atmosphere under normal operating conditions is not possible, or if it
nevertheless appears possible for this to occur for only a short space of time (less than
10 hours/year) and includes:
a. the space around the autogas storage and distribution system;
b. the space around storage vessels;
c. the area around the distributor;
d. the area around the road tanker.
4.34. The classification of explosion hazard zones is set out in Table 2, and the
delimitation of explosion hazard zones for equipment comprising vehicle gas storage
and distribution systems for motor vehicles is set out in Annex 6.

13
Table 2. Classification of explosive hazard zones

ACTIVITY LOCATION CLASSIFIED ZONE

Disconnection of the LPG Storage facility Temporarily Zone 1: over a radius
discharge hose or discharge Terminal of 0.5 m from the transfer point or
gun in the vehicle tank Installation point of contact with the product
storage vessel Commercial transferred
zone
Disconnection of the LPG Storage facility Temporarily Zone 1: over a radius
discharge hose or discharge Terminal of 0.5 m from the transfer point or
gun in the rail tank storage Installation point of contact with the product
vessel Commercial transferred
zone
Disconnection of the LPG Temporarily Zone 1: over a radius
discharge hose or discharge of 2.5 m from the transfer point or
Landing stage
gun in the storage vessel of point of contact with the product
an inland vessel or barge transferred
Disconnection of the LPG Temporarily Zone 1: over a radius
Storage facility
charging hose or charging of 0.5 m from the transfer point or
Terminal
gun in vehicle tank point of contact with the product
Installation
transferred
Disconnection of the LPG Storage facility Temporarily Zone 1: over a range
charging hose or charging Terminal of 0.5 m from the transfer point or
gun in rail tank Installation point of contact with the product
Refinery transferred
Disconnection of the LPG Temporarily Zone 1: over a radius
charging hose or charging of 2.5 m from the transfer point or
Landing stage
gun in inland vessel or barge point of contact with the product
transferred
Zone 1: over a radius of 0.5 m
Installations
from the LPG wet zone of shaft
Terminal
LPG pumps and seals.
Storage facility
compressors Unclassified zone for
Commercial
encapsulated pumps or pumps
zone
with magnetic couplings
Terminal Zone 1: over a radius of 0.5 m
Specific additive, methanol Storage from the LPG wet zone of shaft
and ethyl mercaptan facilities seals.
injection activities in LPG Installations Unclassified zone for
terminals and storage Transfer encapsulated pumps or pumps
facilities facilities with magnetic couplings
Bulk overground, covered or Terminal Zone 1: over a radius of 0.5 m
buried/underground LPG Storage from the contact point of the fixed
storage in storage facilities, facilities or rotary level indicator
terminals and commercial Installations
zones Commercial
zones
Charging and discharging of Installations Does not present hazardous zone
bottle vessels from transport Distributors
facilities Dealers
Wholesalers
Road transport and parks Covered by ADR Regulations, in addition to the
provisions of Directive 1999/92/EC-ATEX
Temporary storage of LPG Does not present hazardous zone
bottle vessels in the open air, Commercial
including on customer zones
premises
Use of bottle vessels in the Does not present hazardous zone
Commercial
open air, including on
zones
customer premises
NOTE: in accordance with “Guide to Directive 1999/92/EC–ATEX”

14
Autogas leak detection systems
4.35. Autogas storage and distribution systems shall be fitted with leak detection
systems, calibrated for autogas, which comprise the facility of visual alarms (flashing
yellow light) on attaining values of 10% of the lower explosive limit (LEL) and an
acoustic alarm (hooter, bell, etc.) on attaining values of 20% of the LEL. Annex 7
presents an example of an autogas leak monitoring system, which is recommended for
buried/underground, covered and semi-buried storage pressure vessels.

4.36. The main problems relating to the application of the provisions of Directive
2003/105/EC to autogas storage and distribution systems shall be tackled in
accordance with the provisions of articles 3.85-3.89 of the LPG Technical Code.

5. Construction of autogas storage and distribution systems

5.1. The manufacturer of autogas storage and distribution systems shall

ensure implementation in a competent manner of the provisions of the design phase,
applying appropriate techniques and relevant procedures, in accordance with the
essential conditions of the LPG Technical Code – Table 2 (Directive 97/23/EC) and
Chapters 3 and 4.
5.2. The recommendations of the following harmonised standards in Directive
97/23/EC, shall be taken into account:
a. SR EN 13445-4 – Unfired pressure vessels – Part 4. Fabrication;
b. SR EN 13480-4 – Metallic industrial piping – Part 4: Inspection and testing.
5.3. The final evaluation, marking and labelling of pressure equipment shall
conform to the essential requirements of PED Directive
5.4. When placing pressure equipment on the market, the manufacturer shall
draw up operating instructions in accordance with PED Directive.
5.5. The operating instructions shall compulsorily contain provisions concerning
preparation with a view to the decommissioning and disposal of pressure equipment, for
which the recommendations of SR EN 13109 – LPG tanks. Disposal may be adopted.
5.6. The classification of pressure equipment shall be carried out in accordance
with Directive 97/23/EC for the category of pressure equipment pertaining to the motor
vehicle autogas storage and distribution system.
5.7. In relation to the corresponding conformity assessment of categories of
pressure equipment and the provisions of Directive 97/23/EC.
5.8. In the case of autogas storage and distribution systems assembled on site,
produced from equipment certified previously and bearing CE marking or CS national
marking, only the engineering piping system linking this certified pressure equipment
shall undergo certification, with the assessment being carried out on the basis of the
highest level of risk of the installation equipment in accordance with Directive 97/23/EC
and guideline recommendations of the Guide to the application of EC Directive
97/23/EC, and also those of the Guide to the implementation of Directives based on a
New Approach and Global Approach.
5.8. The manufacturer of pressure equipment shall apply an approved quality
system for construction, final inspection and testing in accordance with Directive
97/23/EC .

15
 5.9. The manufacturers shall retain and be able to make available to the
supervisory authority the documents provided for in Directive 97/23/EC, for a period of
10 years from the date on which the last pressure equipment was manufactured.
5.10. In relation to buried or covered piping made from PE, the following shall be
ensured:
a. the prevention of flexure above the authorised limit, at the time of installation;
b. a sand layer thickness to be positioned so as prevent tubing deformation,
in line with the external diameter;
c. a ditch to be positioned or covered without using hard rock, rock ridges or
other soil elements that could deform or degrade PE tubing.
5.11. Tubing and fittings that exhibit manufacturing non-conformities shall not be
used for construction purposes.
5.12. It is recommended that the run of buried/underground and/or covered
piping be produced within a single portion of PE tubing. If the construction of a joint is
nevertheless required, this shall be produced only by electrofusion welding, with
authorised welders and equipment approved for such work.
5.13. The covering of underground/buried and/or covered piping shall be carried
out only after the performance of pressure strength testing (performed with water),
followed by leak testing (performed with air, nitrogen or even with the work fluid).
5.14. It is advisable that pressure strength testing be performed with water at a
temperature below 38°C, but not below 7°C, using: initial pressurisation,
expansion/slackening, the constant maintenance of test pressures throughout the test
period, monitoring of the portions of piping tested and discharge of pressures.
5.15. The following aspects shall be taken into account when handling and storing PE
tubing:
a. the packing conditions, the number of rows to be sited vertically;
b. the storage conditions prior to installation;
c. the unloading and set-up conditions;
d. the protective equipment for handling/manoeuvring.
5.16. The transportation of pressure vessels to the installation site and
loading/unloading operations shall be performed using all precautions which ensure the
integrity of the vessels.
5.17. Pressure vessels which are to move from one site to another shall be
prepared, emptied and have:
a. a maximum content of up to 30 kg autogas for vessels with a capacity of
3
up to 5 m water;
b. a residual relative pressure of up to 0.5 bar;
c. pressure vessels with a capacity exceeding 20 m3 shall be completely
degassed.

5.18. The specific rules and measures for preventing and extinguishing fires provided
for in Standards relating to fire prevention and extinguishing during the performance of
construction work and installations pertaining thereto, and concerning the internal fire
prevention and extinguishing order shall be observed when constructing autogas
storage and distribution systems.

5.19. The acceptance of work with a view to the commissioning of autogas storage and
distribution systems shall be performed in accordance with the Regulations governing

16
acceptance of assembly work on tools, equipment, technical installations and the
commissioning of capacity governing acceptance of construction work and related
installations, with the necessary acceptance documents being drawn up.

6. Safety distances

6.1. Autogas storage and distribution systems in motor vehicles shall be located in
accordance with the safety distances in Table 3 relative to adjacent objects, with
reference to the transfer point. The transfer point is the filling point for the storage
pressure vessel.
6.2. The mandatory safety distances for equipment comprising the storage and
distribution system with reference to the other objects in the precincts of the individual
or mixed distribution station are set out in Table 4.
6.3. The recommended safety distances with reference to hydrogen or liquid oxygen
storage facilities with a capacity of up to 50 m3 shall be 7.5 m.

17
 Table 3. Safety distances relative to adjacent objects for the siting of SDDA autogas storage and
distribution systems, in m (is also correlated with Table A4.1)
3
Ser Storage capacity, C, in m water
Location of the
ial Exposed objects* Storage facility model 5<C≤ 20 < C ≤
vessel C≤5 Notes
no. 20 50
Buildings (structures) with Overground/ without dispersion panel 10 15 20
walls without voids that Semi-buried1 with dispersion panel
7
5 10 15
are resistant to fire for at
1 1
least 60 min ., property
2
boundaries , fixed ignition Buried/underground, covered 7,5 10 15
3
sources
Buildings other than Overground/ without dispersion panel 10 20 30
2 those referred to in point semi-buried with dispersion panel 7,5 15 20
1 Buried/underground, covered 10 15 20
Open places (free spaces

carried out at the

for public meetings,

Measurement is
Overground/ without dispersion panel 20 25 40
which include school semi-buried
yards, sports fields, play

range limit
3 with dispersion panel 10 15 30
areas, market places,
flower beds facing public
amenities of all kinds, Buried/underground, covered 10 15 20
etc.)
Public roads (including Overground/ without dispersion panel 7.5 10 15
streets, alleys, semi-buried with dispersion panel 5 7.5 10
4 pavements), trunk roads,
district roads and Buried/underground, covered 5 7.5 15
1
motorways
Railways (in the railway Overground/ without dispersion panel 7.5 15 22.5
system; for electrified semi-buried with dispersion panel 7.5 10 15
5
track on the edge of the
Buried/underground, covered 7.5 10 15
railway)
Overground/ without dispersion panel 7.5 7.5 7.5
Low-voltage electricity
6 semi-buried with dispersion panel 6 6 6

Measurement is
lines

carried out from

lateral electrical
Buried/underground, covered 7.5 7.5 7.5

projections of
Overground/ without dispersion panel 22.5 22.5 22.5
semi-buried with dispersion panel 22.5 22.5 22.5

the plan

cabling;
2 High-voltage electricity
7
lines
Buried/underground, covered 22.5 22.5 22.5

Overground/ without dispersion panel 5 7.5 15

3
8 Tram, trolley bus lines semi-buried with dispersion panel 3 5 10
Buried/underground, covered 5 5 15
Piping for the transport of Overground/ without dispersion panel 7.5 10 15
9 combustible and semi-buried with dispersion panel 5 7.5 10
flammable fluid Buried/underground, covered 5 7.5 10
Sewers, thermal and/or Overground/ without dispersion panel 7.5 15 22.5
engineering piping, semi-buried with dispersion panel 5 10 15
10
including at the
Buried/underground, covered 7.5 10 10
distribution station
Underground storage Overground/ without dispersion panel 6 10 15
tanks for flammable semi-buried with dispersion panel 4 7.5 10
11 and/or combustible liquid
with a flammability Buried/underground, covered 5 7.5 10
0
temperature below 90 C
Bottle stores with a Overground/ without dispersion panel 5 5 7.5
12 capacity of up to 1 tonne semi-buried with dispersion panel 3 3 5
in distribution stations Buried/underground, covered 3 3 5

1
All the terms are defined in accordance with the GPL Technical Code – Annex 1: Terminology relevant to LPG;
2
Including property boundaries in which construction is recommended;
3
Fixed ignition sources may be taken to include the following: naked flame, sparks of any kind (static, electrical,
mechanical, etc.), hot, incandescent surfaces, spontaneous sources, possible chemical and physico-chemical
reactions and radiant heat;

18
 NOTE: In the case of naval SDDA, a safety distance ≥ 3 m relative to the margin for drawing alongside the landing stage is required
and also within a radius of 15 m from the transfer point.

Table 4. Safety distances, in m, relative to storage and distribution system equipment

(is also correlated with TabA4.1)
Ser
Autogas storage Transfer Autogas Supply
ial Equipment Transfer pump
pressure vessel point distributor vehicle
no.
Is not
Is not
Autogas storage standardised,
1 standardise ≥ 0.5 3
pressure vessel and not installed
d
below vessel
Is not Is not
2 Transfer point 1 3
standardised standardised
Is not
Is not
standardised, Is not
3 Transfer pumps standardise 1.5
and not installed standardised
d
below vessel
Is not Is not
4 Autogas distributor ≥ 0.5 1
standardised standardised
Is not
5 Supply vehicle 3 3 1.5
standardised
Buried/underground
Is not
6 petrol tank inspection 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5
standardised
port

Buried/underground
Is not
7 diesel oil tank 3 3 3 3
standardised
inspection port

Buried petrol tank Is not

8 7.5. 7.5 7.5 7.5
transfer point standardised

Petrol tank Is not

9 4 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5
ventilation standardised
Petrol product
distributors of
explosion-proof
construction:
Is not
- for petrol5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5
10 standardised
Is not Is not
- for diesel oil 3 3 3
standardised standardised
Parked motor Is not
11 6 6 6 6
vehicles standardised

Racks of bottles with

13 a capacity of up to 3 5 3 3 -
1000 kg autogas

1
Is also correlated with the specific distances for motorway service areas;
3
Is correlated with point 3 of Table 3;
7
The gas dispersion panel is made of incombustible material (with the exception of metals) and without various holes
or cross-pieces, with fire resistance of at least 60 minutes and has a recommended height of 0.2 m above the
transfer point; the length of the dispersion panel is to exceed the horizontal projection of the entire distribution
system assembly by 1…1.5 m, on both sides, as appropriate;
4
For venting provided with flame checks or in systems with vapour recovery, the distances may be reduced by 20%;
5
Applies even for distributors with vapour recovery.

19
7. Notification of activities in autogas storage and distribution
systems
7.1. The performance by physical persons/economic agents of commercial activities
related to autogas shall take place in accordance with licences issued on the basis of
specific regulations of the National Authority.
7.2 (a) Autogas storage and distribution systems shall be certified and notified in
accordance with the recommendations of article 4.2 of the LPG Technical Code 2, the
Guides to the application of decisions by the Romanian Government adopting European
Directives based on the New Approach and the Guide to the implementation of
Directives based on the New Approach and the Global Approach, and conform to
national laws specified by the authorities and institutions with competence in the field.
(b) Fire prevention and extinguishing installations and means of first intervention used
for equipping autogas storage and distribution systems shall be certified and approved,
in accordance with specific regulations, by the authorities with competence in the field.
7.3. Autogas storage and distribution systems for work in potentially explosive
atmospheres shall be certified in accordance with Directive 94/9/EC. After installation
on site, the documentation required for operation shall be obtained, in accordance with
specific legislation.
7.4. Approval activities on autogas storage and distribution systems, periodic technical
checks, modifications to the structure of systems, and the withdrawal from use of
pressure equipment forming part of storage and distribution systems shall be
undertaken in accordance with the provisions of national legislation, by he competent
bodies, in compliance with the recommendations of the Guide to the application of
Directive 97/23/EC and the Guide to implementing directives based on the New
Approach and the Global Approach.
7.5. The metrological verification of the storage and distribution system for motor
vehicles, including the calibration of storage pressure vessels, shall be mandatory for all
measuring components comprising the system and shall be performed by a competent
institution.
7.6. All component parts and also the entire autogas storage and distribution system
for motor vehicles shall have declarations of conformity and CE marking. The CS
marking is accepted only for equipment insalled before of 31 december 2006.
7.7. For pressure equipment assembled under the user’s responsibility at the place of
operation, the recommendations of the Guide to the application of Directive 97/23/EC
and Guide to implementing directives based on the New Approach and the Global
Approach shall be observed.
7.8. Autogas storage and distribution systems shall be operated only by LPG tank-
filling operators who are trained and authorised in accordance with legislation in force.

systems
8. Operation of autogas storage and distribution systems

Checks on autogas storage and distribution systems

20
8.1. The verification procedures and techniques may adopt non-destructive defect
detection methods, namely visual inspection, defect detection with penetrating liquids,
defect detection with magnetic powders, defect detection by ultrasound, defect
detection with penetrating radiation, acoustic emissions and other techniques for which
specific monitoring procedures are to be laid down.
8.2. The checks relate to the general technical state of the vessel and the general
technical state of the engineering piping system.
8.3. It is recommended that the verification and requalification of pressure vessels for
autogas storage be performed in accordance with the provisions of:
a. SR EN 12817 – Inspection and requalification of LPG tanks up to and
including 13 m3 overground;
b. SR EN 12818 – Inspection and requalification of LPG tanks up to and
including 13 m3 underground;
c. SR EN 12819 – Inspection and requalification of LPG tanks greater than
13 m3 overground;
d. SR EN 12820 – Inspection and requalification of LPG tanks greater than
13 m3 underground,
taking account of the recommendations of the following harmonised standards in
Directive 97/23/EC:
a. SR EN 13445-5 – Unfired pressure vessels – Part 5: Inspection and
testing;
b. SR EN 13480 – Metallic industrial piping – Part 5: Inspection and testing.
8.4. The verification of the general technical condition of pressure equipment forming
part of autogas storage and distribution systems shall be performed under the terms laid
down in regulations in force.
8.5. At the time of operation of autogas storage and distribution systems, the owner of
such systems shall be required to perform the checks referred to in Table 5.

21
Table 5. Required checks at the time of operation of autogas storage and distribution systems
Ser
ial Area of verification Requirements
no.
Analysis of written procedures for normal operation of the autogas Directive 97/23/EC
1.
storage and distribution system Chapter III, article 10
Directive 97/23/EC
2. Analysis of emergency procedures or non-standard operations Chapter V, article
19(1);(2)
Directive 97/23/EC
3. Analysis of incident protection and safety systems Annex 1, points 2.12,
4.1(a,b,d)
Directive 94/9/EC
Analysis of systems that protect against ignition due to static electricity, SR EN 50014,
4.
lightning and accidental currents SR EN 13980,
SR EN 1127-1,2
Analysis of safety access systems under normal conditions and for
Directive 97/23/EC
accidental conditions: accumulation around the vessel, adjacent
5. Annex 1, point 2.10,
underground zones, drainage zones – dams, embankments, collecting
SR EN 13160-1
channels, historic sites, nearby dwellings, etc. (see also Annex 5)
Directive 97/23/EC
6. Analysis of overfill protection systems, including calibration Annex 1, points 2.3, 2.9,
2.11
Directive 97/23/EC
7. Analysis of zones posing a potential hazard in the case of leakage Annex 1, points 2.3,
3.2.2
Analysis of corrosion protection systems for vessel storage and
distribution systems (buried, covered, semi-buried and/or underground)
and related piping, including cathodic protection systems:
- ground potential structure;
Directive 97/23/EC
- cathodic protection current;
Annex 1, points 2.6, 2.7
13. - original ground potential structure;
Directive 94/9/EC
- structure-structure potential;
- structure-vessel/container potential;
- isolation of piping from vessel for separate protection;
- structure-ground potential relative to adjacent structures;
- continuity of structures in the case of single protection
Analysis of continuity of equipotential bonds (linking to the earthing Directive 94/9/EC
14.
system) SR EN 50014
Analysis of aeration/ventilation, degassing, purging, etc. systems for Directive 97/23/EC
17.
normal events and breakdowns Annex 1, point 2.5

8.6. All the checks are recorded in written documents confirming the actual performance
of the checks.
8.7. Pressure strength testing of pressure vessels shall be performed in accordance
with the provisions of articles 3.33 – 3.41 of the LGP Technical Code and national
standards in force, without exceeding the following timescales:
a. 10 years for overground pressure vessels, with CE marking, provided with an
inspection port, on which the pressure strength testing was performed for the first time
on the manufacturer’s premises using acoustic emissions;
b. 10 years for pressure vessels, with CE marking, that are buried/underground and/or
covered and equipped with cathodic protection, on which the pressure strength testing
was performed for the first time on the manufacturer’s premises using acoustic
emissions;
c. 5 years for pressure vessels, with CE marking, that are buried and/or covered and
equipped with cathodic protection;

22
d. 5 years for overground vessels with a capacity of less than 13 m3 water without
inspection ports (in accordance with the LPG Technical Code);
e. 5 years for all other pressure vessels that are provided with inspection ports and
with national CS marking.
8.8. The improper performance of pressure strength testing within accepted intervals
without appropriate technical justification shall be prohibited.
8.9. Pressure strength testing shall be preceded by internal and external verification of
the pressure vessels. External verification shall be performed mid-way between two
pressure strength tests.
8.10. The cathodic protection shall be verified annually.
8.11. Buried/underground and/or covered pressure vessels which are not provided with
cathodic protection shall be uncovered when pressure strength testing is performed with
a view to checking the state of the insulation protection.
8.12. When pressure strength testing is performed, the pressure relief valves shall be
disassembled, checked and adjusted together with the other equipment pertaining to
the vessel described in Annexes 4a and 4b.
8.13. The pressure relief valves shall be disassembled, checked and adjusted following
any accident discharges after which valve leak-tightness has not been restorable, and
at least once a year, in workshops and with personnel authorised for these operations.
The pressure relief valve set pressure shall not be more than +5% above the vessel’s
maximum service pressure recommended in SR EN 14129 – Pressure relief valves for
LPG tanks, and shall be specified by the manufacturer in the operating documentation.
8.14. Pressure strength testing shall not preclude subsequent leak-tightness checks.
8.15. Pressure strength testing performed using acoustic emissions shall not go on for
more than 4 hours.
8.16. Following pressure strength testing of piping, the latter shall be blown through with
air to remove the test fluid.

8.17. The leak-tightness check shall be performed following completion of the pressure
strength testing, at a pre-set pressure recommended for LGP of max. 0.5 MPa (5 bar)
with air, nitrogen or GPL and after the performance of any assembly operations on
safety devices pertaining to the pressure equipment.
8.18. The leak-tightness testing shall be performed under the conditions set out in point
4.23, within 10 - 60 minutes.
8.19. If the system has been tested with compressed air, the static electricity check
must be performed.
8.20. Polyethylene (PE) tubing that has suffered deformation during the pressure
strength testing shall be fully replaced. This precludes the rectification of deformed
piping.

Requirements governing the operation of autogas storage and

distribution systems
8.21. The steps that must be followed for the performance of the autogas distribution
operations apply both to independent distribution systems and to mixed ones.

23
8.22. The operator who fills LPG vessels installed on motor vehicles or recreational
craft (code 932009 of the Nomenclature for the classification of occupations) is, together
with the head of the distribution station, responsible for all the following measures
required for the operation of the system under conditions of safety:
a. he is responsible for the performance of operational manoeuvres under
conditions of safety in all the situations dictated by the state of the system;
b. in the event of accidental leakage of autogas, he performs the specific
operations provided for in this situation;
c. he is responsible for management of the product and does not permit
distribution other than to motor vehicles or recreational craft legally authorised to use
the autogas;
d. he records in the service report any incidents that have occurred during the shift,
and the state in which he took over and handed over the autogas storage and
distribution system to the LPG vessel filling operator on the following shift.
8.23. Prior to filling the pressure vessel with autogas, the air shall be removed from the
storage pressure vessel and eliminated, with this being done by:
a. neutralising the air-water mixture;
b. correctly purging the air from the vessel for autogas pressure storage.
8.24. Neutralisation of the air/water mixture from the autogas storage vessels shall be
performed by introducing a quantity of 1 litre of pure anhydrous methyl alcohol per m3 of
water capacity in the autogas storage vessel.
8.25. The methanol shall be stored and handled in leak-tight vessels with markings
and labelling inscribed with risk and hazard phrases. Where methanol is used,
personnel taking part in the work are to be specially trained, since methanol is toxic and
noxious.
8.26. The correct purging of new vessels for the storage of autogas shall be carried out
for the purposes of eliminating air from the vessel with a view to reducing maintenance
costs (the transfer is to be carried out easily, the pump is not to experience cavitation,
less energy is to be needed to fill the vessel).
8.27. The purging of the air is to be repeated for at least four hours until the air content
is less than 5% relative to an autogas content of at least 95% (not to be confused with
the storage vessel’s fill level with liquid autogas, which must under no circumstances
exceed 80% for surface vessels).
8.28. It is prohibited to purge autogas in the liquid phase.
8.29. Operation of autogas storage and distribution systems consists in the
performance of the following operations:
a. filling of storage vessels with a quantity of 150-200 of litres of autogas (on
first filling);
b. verification of the leak-tightness of all joints pertaining to the vessel, the
opening of fittings (safety cocks and the remotely operated cock) with a view to
checking the leak-tightness of the other joints;
c. continuous filling of the vessel to the maximum fill level of 80%, which is
dependent on complete leak-tightness of all joints; if a lack of leak-tightness is apparent,
this is to be rectified, after which a new leak-tightness check is performed; the filling
operation is continued only after the leaks are rectified;
d. verification of the level of autogas in the vessel, which must under no
circumstances exceed 80% or be emptied below 10%, in the installations in

24
operation; in systems with covered or buried (underground) storage pressure vessels,
the maximum permitted fill level is 85%;
e. in systems in which the drain port inside the vessel breaches the
corresponding level of 10% of the capacity, consideration shall, prior to the 10% level
being attained, be given to the discontinuation of autogas deliveries and to shutdown of
the transfer pump, so that the phenomenon of cavitation does not arise;
f. initiation of the air compressor and establishment of pressures of 0.6 MPa
(6 bar) required for remote actuation of the pneumatic cock; for other kinds of actuation,
the corresponding stages of controlled cock actuation are to be undertaken;
g. opening of the safety cock located upstream of the remote-controlled
cock;
h. opening of isolating cocks on the liquid- and gas-phase return lines;
i. partial opening of the differential cock/valve on the liquid-phase return line;
j. opening of the distributor isolating cocks; from this time, the distribution
system is prepared for being able to supply motor vehicles with autogas;
k. supplying of electrical power to the system (the transfer pump and the
distributor).
The operations are identical for all types of motor vehicle autogas distribution
systems.
8.30. The filling of storage pressure vessels in autogas storage and distribution
systems with autogas shall be performed only by the transport agent’s personnel.
8.31. Road tankers fitted in accordance with the requirements of Directive 99/36/EC
with subsequent amendments, the ADR Transport Regulations and authorised in
conformity with the regulations in force shall be used for transport.
8.32. Road tankers shall be positioned 5 m away from the autogas storage and
distribution system, with the engine turned off, in gear and with the hand brake and
brake shoes engaged.
8.33. The connection of road tankers to vessels, with a view to the transfer of autogas,
shall be performed by the transport agent’s LPG vessel filling operator, in accordance
with the said agent’s instructions and only after:
- earthing of the road tanker and the preparation of fire prevention and
extinguishing facilities;
- verification of the absence of sources of danger in the filling area;
- analysis of scope for rapid removal of the road tanker from the area in the
event of danger;
- delimitation of the access area for outside personnel;
- verification of vessel fittings;
- verification of equipment fitted to the road tanker;
- connection of the liquid- and gas-phase autogas fill hoses (if the tanker is
equipped) to the system’s autogas storage vessel;
- verification of the leak-tightness of the connections;
- verification of autogas leaks and the leak-tightness of monoblock systems
with a maximum storage capacity of 5 m3 shall be performed with portable detectors
(explosimeters), calibrated for autogas at 10% of the LEL, with the requirement to draw
up procedures concerning the frequency of supervisory inspections; in the case of the
distribution of more than 0.5 m3 autogas/h/storage vessel, the supervisory inspection
with a view to detecting leaks using the explosimeter shall be performed once an hour.
8.34. The autogas transfer operation shall be permanently monitored by the transport
agent’s personnel so that the maximum fill level of the storage vessel does not exceed

25
80% of the volume of the overground vessel or 85% in the case of covered or
buried/underground vessels.
8.35. Autogas not accompanied by the declaration of conformity submitted in copy form
by the road tanker driver when the storage pressure vessel is filled shall not be
distributed.
8.36. The distribution of autogas to road vehicles shall take place in accordance with the
following steps:
a. the remote control cock is opened;
b. the road vehicle is positioned in a specially marked location, 3 metres from
the distribution system;
c. the hood of the road vehicle compartment housing the autogas tank is
opened;
d. the RAR approval for the use of this fuel is identified in the registration
certificate and the authenticity of the markings with those on the registration certificate is
identified the tank has a welded registration plate bearing the following details in a
visible fashion and at no risk of being degraded or erased:
- the serial number;
- the capacity, in litres;
- the LPG marking (LPG);
- the test pressure, in MPa (bar);
- the phrase “maximum fill level 80%”;
- the year and month of approval (e.g. 03/09);
- the approval mark: a circle enclosing the letter “E” followed by a distinctive
number of the country that has granted the approval (for Romania, this is E19), then
Regulation ECE R67-1, followed by a dash and a 6-digit number, identical to the
approval number, and then the non-return valve class (1, 2, 2A or 3).

For example:
67 R – 002493 CLASS 3
E 19

indicates a tank approved in Romania in accordance with Regulation Regulation

ECE R67-1with approval number 002493 in the 3rd class, i.e. a vessel fitted with an
overpressure valve;
e. the tank is earthed using the special cable with a terminal; when earthing
is carried out, full contact between the terminal and the earthing terminal is checked;
f. the position of the motor vehicle tank fill connector is identified and the
surface of the coupling seal is cleaned with a clean cloth made of antistatic material;
g. the distributor’s delivery gun is connected to the motor vehicle’s tank
connector; the possibility of leak-tight connection between the road vehicle’s tank
connector and the type of gun used in the distributor hose is checked; where the
connection cannot be made in a leak-tight fashion, distribution shall not be carried out; it
is recommended that guns with EURO coupling systems be used;
h. the distributor is started, and actuation of the distributor counter is initiated
at the same time as monitoring of the tank fill level; it is not permitted to breach the
maximum tank fill level by 80%, and the minimum level shall not be less than 10%;
i. if the differential valve does not undertake corresponding automatic
operation, the filling operation shall be performed after adjusting the liquid return;
j. following the distribution of quantities of autogas, the distributor and the
transfer pump are shut down and disconnection of the distribution gun is carried out
only after performing these operations.

26
8.37. LPG tank fill operators shall be trained by professional training providers, , on the
basis of programmes drawn..

8.38. LPG tank fill operators may also be trained by employees on the basis of
approved programmes.
8.39. In the case of technical incidents, LPG fill operators shall arrange for the
performance of the following operations in the event of accidental leakage of autogas,
with the rescue of human lives being the priority:
a. in the event of leaks detected by fixed detection equipment (cell with
sensors or portable explosimeter detector), set at 20% of the minimum explosion limit
triggering an acoustic alarm, all isolating fittings shall close immediately and all
operations shall be interrupted;
b. the line manager shall be notified immediately and the police, fire service
and ambulance service (where necessary) shall be notified;
c. it shall be endeavoured to limit the spread of the leaks;
d. warning signs prohibiting access by people shall be posted (anyone
downwind shall be evacuated) in the area and flame sources shall be prohibited;
e. access shall be prohibited in the affected area for all vehicles, with the
exception of this called upon to intervene;
f. the supply of electrical power to the area shall be stopped;
g. if a fire has occurred which cannot be extinguished, steps shall be taken to
bring it under control; a fire arising from leaks of autogas vapours is not to be
extinguished because its spread may trigger fires or explosions in adjacent areas which
are more difficult to control;
h. in the event of leaks of autogas without a fire arising, effective steps are to
be taken to extinguish/interrupt any flame sources;
i. the installation of water cooling systems is to be commenced immediately
(to be applied to the source of the leaks either by a continuous jet or by spraying).
Risk analysis of motor vehicle autogas storage and distribution
systems

8.40. Risk analysis of autogas storage and distribution systems shall be performed in
accordance with the recommendations of articles 3.107 - 3.113 of the LPG Technical
Code, by assessing the probability of events and the severity and consequences of
such events within the matrix associated with the risk relating to the activity
undertaken within the system.

8.41. A recommended system for estimating the probabilities of events and their
severity or consequences is set out in Table 6, and recommendations for risk
assessment are set out in the risk assessment matrix.
Table 6. Assessment of probability and severity/consequences
Probability
A Likely to occur immediately (P > 10-1)
B Likely to occur in the ensuing period (10-1 ≥ P >10-2)
C Likely to occur in time (10-2 ≥ P >10-3)
D Likely to occur some time (10-3 ≥ P >10-6)
E Unlikely to occur (P ≤10-6)
Severity/Consequences
Class I – Catastrophic Conditioned by events that may lead to death or injury with permanent
disability, serious damage to major systems that lead to losses running to

27
 more than USD 1 million
Class II – Critical Conditioned by events that may lead to severe injury or occupational
disease or major damage to property with losses running to USD 200,000
- 1 million
Class III – Moderate Conditioned by events that may lead to slight injury or occupational
disease or major damage to property with losses running to USD 10,000 –
200,000
Class IV - Negligible Conditioned by events that may require first aid or lead to inessential
damage to property, which can be rectified immediately, with losses
running to USD 2,000 – 10,000
Risk assessment matrix
Classes of severity/ Estimated probability
consequences A B C D E
I Very high High High Medium Low
II High High Medium Low Low
III Medium Medium Low Low Low
IV Low Low Low Low Low

8.42. For hazard situations in which autogas leaks set out in Table 7 have occurred,
steps shall be taken to prohibit access by people not involved in remedial action.

Table 7. Typical situations of autogas leaks in autogas storage and distribution systems
Details of autogas leakage events
Event
(and cause)
Degradation of road tanker hose.
1
Rapid leakage of the entire contents from hose
Leakage of the entire contents from the transfer line
2
due to defects in overflow fitting
3 Leakage from vessel via pressure relief valve
Leakage from transfer line to vaporiser and
4 reduction of flow rate as a result of partial opening
of the overflow fitting
Leakage due to corrosion in an orifice on the
5
transfer pressure line
Rapid leakage of the entire contents via the transfer
6
hose
Rupture of the road tanker hose after the vessel
7
has been filled

9. Requirements governing work

work protection and fire prevention and
extinguishing

9.1. The appointment and distribution of the installation’s operating personnel

and their training shall take place in accordance with the general arrangements for the
training of employees in emergencies.
9.2. Only authorised personnel with appropriate professional training,
aptitudes, experience, physical capabilities and normal neuropsychological capacity are
to be used for performing work related to the operation of installations.
9.3. The deployment of anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or who
is tired or in a physical/mental state that does not allow him or her to concentrate is
prohibited.
9.4. During the filling of autogas storage pressure vessels with autogas from
the road tanker, the vehicle driver shall ensure that:

28
 a. access and manoeuvres by the road tanker can be performed without any
difficulty (reversing to enter is prohibited, and access may be gained only at a set rate);
b. the outside of the vessel does not exhibit signs of corrosion or
deterioration;
c. safety equipment and measuring and control apparatus fitted to the vessel
are in working order and have legible markings;
d. the fittings on the vessel are operable;
e. the road tanker engine is off, the road vehicle is secured with the service
brake, and the road tanker’s wheels are locked via its fitted brake shoes;
f. the road tanker’s electrical circuitry is powered off;
g. the road tanker’s vessel is connected to the earthing belt via mobile clips;
h. the road tanker is at least 5 m from the autogas storage and distribution
system.
9.5. The transfer of autogas from the road tanker to vessels shall be performed
only with the pump and hoses (made from antistatic rubber approved for autogas) fitted
to the road tanker.
9.6. Connection and disconnection of the flexible tube to vessels and their
filling shall be carried out using appropriate protective equipment.
9.7. The vehicle driver shall, during vessel filling, monitor both the equipment
on the road tanker and the level indicator on the vessel to ensure that filling is stopped
at 80% of the maximum fill capacity in the case of surface/overground and semi-buried
vessels and at 85% in the case of covered and buried/underground vessels and that the
road tanker does not leave until they are removed from the station.
9.8. The performance of any repair work on the road tanker shall be prohibited
during parking at the system site.
9.9. The LPG vessel filling operator for the storage and distribution system
shall be continuously present during filling of the autogas storage pressure vessel.
9.10. The following shall be prohibited during filling of the storage and
distribution system vessel:
a. supplying of motor vehicles;
b. access by outside personnel and motor vehicles to the autogas storage
and distribution system zone;
c. smoking, the use of naked lights and the performance of any work
involving ignition sources over a range corresponding to the safety distances and road
tanker distances;
d. authorisation of the filling of road tankers that do not meet the technical
requirements and that are not fitted with intervention facilities in the case of fire;
e. continuation of filling of the vessel if the operator reports that the operation
is not being performed correctly by the road tanker personnel;
f. abandonment of the place of work or leaving it unsupervised until
completion of the storage vessel filling operation from the road tanker;
g. authorisation of filling before the operator checks the documentation held
by the road tanker driver concerning the quality and type of fluid to be filled;
h. authorisation of continuation of filling if the road tanker exhibits leakage or
releases of autogas from the installation or hose if it has not been sited in the location
laid down or the hose connection is inappropriate;
i. climbing into the road tanker when it is being parked or when filling with
autogas, and also climbing onto the storage vessel; the verification of the pressure or
level of appliances mounted on vessels shall be carried out using a properly secured

29
ladder made from material that does not produce sparks when it strikes or rubs against
the metallic access structure.
9.11. The following shall be prohibited during operation of the installation:
a) the performance of any servicing tasks without wearing approved
protection and intervention equipment (PIE);
b) compelling the performance of servicing tasks without providing individual
means of protection appropriate to the tasks;
c) the washing of PIE and work and intervention equipment (WIE) with
flammable products both in the vicinity of the installation and outside it;
d) continuation of the work with individual protective equipment contaminated
with autogas in the liquid phase or vapours;
e) the wearing of clothing made from synthetic material or which may carry
electrostatic charges;
f) the use of footwear with metallic accessories that may produce sparks;
g) the commissioning of installations without a final acceptance report,
signed by the acceptance committee designated by the company’s driver;
h) the start-up or operation of installations without the protective or safety
devices provided for in the documentation or subject to their subsequent
supplementation;
i) access to motor vehicles in the area around the system and their parking
when the system is out of operation, pending or during filling.
9.12. LPG vessel filling operators shall be prohibited from:
a. performing work and operations that are the responsibility of the road
tanker driver;
b. conducting remedial action on the installation to modify it or undertake
repairs (with these being the responsibility of specialist and authorised servicing
teams);
c. putting the installation into operation after any shutdown, without the
protective and safety devices and the measuring and control equipment with which it
has been supplied, and also disassembling the apparatus during operation;
d. leaving the place of work when passenger cars are being filled;
e. allowing vehicle drivers to fill their motor vehicles alone;
f. continuing the delivery of autogas if defects appear in equipment or
fittings;
g. using improvised, small-scale or open-resistance heating appliances in the
installation cabin;
h. operating the electrical installation with defects or improvisations or
overstressing the circuitry by using current-drawing appliances above the specified
nominal power;
i. distributing autogas to customers who do not observe the fire prevention
rules or act in an uncivilised way in the vicinity of the storage and distribution system.

9.13 The extinguishing installations pertaining to the autogas storage and distribution
system shall be designed, constructed and operated in accordance with articles 3. 44 -
3.51 of the present standards.

10. Withdrawal and post-

post-use of autogas storage and
distribution systems

30
10.1 The withdrawal of autogas storage and distribution systems under conditions of
safety shall be undertaken in compliance with the following preparatory measures:
- the powering-down of all current-drawing appliances;
- the separation of the site in question with detachable panels, for the purpose of
preventing access by unauthorised motor vehicles and individuals;
- the posting-up on the site perimeter of inscriptions with risk and hazard phrases
in accordance with the technical regulations in force;
- the isolation of the system with adaptation of the requirements of articles 1.104
and 3.105 of the LPG Technical Code;
- the emptying of autogas storage and distribution systems and the provision of an
inert and safe internal atmosphere obtained, for all site equipment, in accordance with
articles 5.13, 5.31 and 5.32 of the LPG Technical Code and the recommendations for
the preparation of vessels with a view to withdrawal as set out in SR EN 13109 – LPG
tanks. Disposal;
- provision of the necessary technical fire-extinguishing facilities by a procedure
specific to the operation;
- personnel training via specific procedures in accordance with articles 4.11 – 4.12
of the LPG Technical Code and the issue of work permits in accordance with article 4.7
of the LPG Technical Code.

10.2. The commencement of withdrawal work shall be permitted only after the agents
involved in this activity have verified the implementation steps under conditions of
safety, without any danger of fire or explosion, and the complete and appropriate
performance of the preparatory measures pursuant to article 10.1.

10.3. The withdrawal of autogas storage and distribution systems shall be performed on
the basis of specific, notified and detailed procedures for each equipment disassembly
operation.

10.4. Disassembled equipment or parts of equipment shall be taken off site.

10.5. Naked lights and implements that may produce impact sparks shall be prohibited
when disassembling autogas storage and distribution systems.

10.6. The provisions of the Regulations concerning the monitoring of conduct in

operation, intervention on time and the post-use of structures, shall be observed when
demolishing and stripping overground buildings (structures).

10.7. The demolition and stripping of overground buildings (structures) shall be

performed only after removing recoverable and/or reusable components. Recoverable
and/or reusable materials shall be stored in or removed to well-established locations
that do not prevent the performance of the work.

10.8. Mechanical implements may be used only under conditions of safety in such a
way as not to promote the occurrence or fires or the degradation of installations or
equipment not disassembled or removed.

10.9. The reconditioning/requalification of disassembled components intended for reuse

shall be performed only in specialist workshops under conditions which, where such
components are subsequently used, comply with the planned parameters and safety
conditions.

31
10.10. Following the withdrawal of autogas storage and distribution systems, the owner
shall take all steps needed to rehabilitate the site and modify the surrounding area.

10.11. Post-use of autogas storage and distribution systems shall be carried out in
accordance with the rules and measures specific to such work in conformity with articles
4.4 – 4.8 of the LPG Technical Code and other specific regulations.

11. Final provisions

11.1. Autogas storage and distribution systems in operation on the date of entry into
force of the present standards shall be kept in operation and shall be brought into line
with the present regulations at the time of the first periodic technical check or first major
modification in accordance with the guideline recommendations of the Guides to the
application the EC Directives concerning the New Approach and the Global Approach.

11.2. The relevant legislation, the list of non-mandatory standards, technical standards
and requirements relating to autogas are covered by Annex 8.

32
 Annex 1
Relevant autogas terminology
(Relevant LPG terminology is covered by the LPG Technical Code: Annex 1)
Assembly – set of pressure equipment assembled by the manufacturer to form a
unit or integrated and functional system;
Autogas – liquefied petroleum gas that may be stored and/or handled in a liquid
phase under conditions of moderate pressure and at ambient temperature. This
consists principally of propane and butane and their isomers, with reduced
proportions of propylene;
Autogas quality – attribute of the autogas defined by its composition and physical
properties;
Cavitation – the onset of a gas-phase state when a flow of liquid is pumped;
Covered (underground) storage vessel – a storage vessel installed with 10% or
more of its volume below ground level and which includes the vessel installed on a
foundation or in a tub;
Discharge device – device designed to shut off at a high pressure;
Distributor – any fixed device used for the distribution of autogas within a storage
and distribution system;
Explosive limit – the percentage volume range over which the mixture of autogas
and air may explode; below the lower explosive limit (LEL) and above the upper
explosive limit (UEL), the mixture does not explode/burn;
Fill density – the ratio between the maximum permitted mass of autogas within a
vessel and the mass of water at 150C that would fill the vessel completely;
Filling connector – connector/connecting piece provided on the storage vessel with
a view to the latter’s filling (see Transfer point);
Flexible hose – a flexible tube fitted with a connector;
Leakage – any loss of autogas due to a defect in or damage to a storage system;
Leak-tightness testing – specific testing which determines the location of possible
accidental losses of autogas;
Maximum permissible service/operating pressure – the maximum pressure at
which the vessel is intended to operate safely;
Operational control – the adoption and application of certain procedures and
instructions for operation under conditions of safety, including maintenance of the
installation, technological processes, equipment and temporary breaks in operation;
Overground (surface) vessel – a storage vessel installed with 90% or more of its
volume at ground level or above the level of a building and which includes the vessel
installed on a foundation;
Piping – tubular components intended for the transport of fluids when installed in a
pressure system. This encompasses tubes, tube systems, fittings, expansion joints,
hoses and other pressure components, as applicable. Heat exchangers (in the case
of the surface of vaporisers) with tubing intended for heating or cooling are deemed
to constitute piping;

33
Protection distance – the recommended clearance from people, for various danger
situations in which autogas leaks have occurred;
Purge time – time needed to purge some or all of the equipment prior to draining
the air or residual autogas;
Residual risk – the level of risk that remains after steps have been taken to reduce
the probability and consequences of a danger;
Risk – function of the severity and probability of the occurrence of an event;
Risk phrase – a phrase providing a concise description of the risk presented by
hazardous chemical substances and preparations for humans and the environment;
Road tanker – road vehicle equipped appropriately and authorised for the transport
of autogas from the supplier to the storage and distribution system or to a consumer/
beneficiary;
Safety distance – the minimum clearance between a source of danger and an
object (human, equipment or surroundings) which reduces the impact of a probably
unforeseen incident and prevents a minor incident from becoming a major one;
Safety factor – the ratio between the fracture/rupture pressure and the maximum
permissible operating/service pressure;
Semi-buried (semi-surface) storage vessel – an uncovered storage vessel
installed with at least 40% or more of its volume below ground level and which
includes the vessel installed on a foundation within a cavity or in a tub;
Site – the location where the autogas installation is sited or the location where it is to
be sited (≡ location);
Sprinkler system – the assembly formed by a tank fitted with sprinkler nozzles
constructed for spraying water;
Storage and distribution system – assembly of a pressure vessel together with
connecting pipework located overground or buried (underground), including the
pumps and transfer equipment, engineering pipework and devices for collecting
spills and leaks pertaining thereto;
Storage capacity – the net volume of a vessel, filled to the maximum permitted
under regulations governing the pressure storage of autogas;
Storage vessel – a sealed enclosure designed and manufactured to contain
pressure fluids, including any fixed components but confined to devices for
connection to other equipment, and which is used for the surface (overground) or
buried (covered, underground) storage of autogas;
Testing – technical operation consisting in determining one or more characteristics
of a product, in accordance with a specified procedure;
Transfer point – the location (fixed position) at which the autogas is transferred
from the road tanker’s tank to the autogas storage and distribution system’s vessel.
It is the point from which safety distances are specified;
Vessel – tank – pressure vessel installed on a motor vehicle, constructed in
accordance with Regulations ECE R 67-1;

34
 Annex 2

Technical requirements governing autogas

A2.1. The main components of autogas are: propane, propene (propylene in

reduced proportions), butane and butenes and isomers of these gases.
A2.2. For the purposes of immediate identification by producers and on the
market, autogas is characterised by unique classification numbers, as follows:
- the ONU/UN number included in the recommendations on the transport of
dangerous goods provides the basis for regulations governing naval, rail and road
transport, both regionally and internationally;
- the CAS number (Chemical Abstract Service Registry Number), which defines
the chemical product, but not the concentration or specific mixtures;
- the EINECS number introduced by Commission Decision 81/437/EEC.
A2.3. The centralised classification of identification numbers for autogas is set
out in Table A2. 1.
Table A2. 1. Autogas identification numbers
Number/
ONU/
name of the CAS EINECS
UN
substance
Vehicle LPG
LPGc/ 1965 73-98-6 270-990-9
AUTOGAS

A2.4. It is recommended that autogas meets the quality requirements provided

for in SR EN 589 – Automotive fuels - LPG. Requirements and test methods.

A2.5. The specific characteristics of autogas are as follows:

a) critical characteristics: “motor” octane number (MON), vapour pressure,
volatile residue, diene content, evaporation residue and sulphur content;
b) non-critical characteristics: copper corrosion, water content, odorisation
level, sulphurated hydrogen, fluoride content and methanol content, as set out in Table
A2.2.
c) the Wobbe indices, in MJ/m3, recommended for the main components of
autogas are as follows:
- Wpropane = 76.83;
- Wbutane = 87.54;
- Wisobutane = 87.12;
- Wmixture of propane/butane (60%:40%) = 79.2 MJ/m3.

35
 Table A2.2. Description of the specific characteristics of autogas

Characteristic Description Comments

A. Critical
characteristics:
“Motor” octane - Is intended to ensure adequate detonating characteristics of the fuel and To be quoted as:
number (MON) constrain selection of the composition, in view of the fact that both the olefins and MONisobutane >
the fraction C4 have relatively low octane numbers. MONpropane
- Has a direct impact on the performance of motors and their durability as well as
on pollutant emission levels.
- Is an indirect measure of the lowest temperatures under the conditions at which
initial vaporisation may take place. Is a quasi-quantitative measure of the most
The total emissions
volatile component present in fuel (e.g. represents an indirect check on the paraffin
of hydrocarbons, CO
content and, to a greater extent, the olefins content) and may be used to assess
and NOx in a vehicle
the maximum pressures that may be laid down at the temperature of the storage
LPG composed of
vessels;
Vapour pressure 15% olefins and
- Is directly related to climatic conditions. So far as vehicle operability is
50:50 C3:C4
concerned, it is directly proportional to motor startability which, under conditions of
(percentage weights
industrial vapour pressure, must ensure motor startability below -20C;
perform similarly to or
- Fluctuations in the C3:C4 ratio also have a major impact on emissions of CO and
better than petrol).
NOx in the sense that the latter are directly and negatively correlated with C4
content.
- Limits the C5 content (pentanes) and, more specifically, the percentage that
Volatile residue vaporises together with C4 and below, which is particularly important with regard to
starting problems in the cold.
- The adoption of a strict limit for dienes has the function of reducing the probability This phenomenon is
of problems of deposits in kit controllers and/or vaporisers and also for similar to the
Diene content
concentrations of butadiene which produce polymerisation deposits and blockage deposition of gums in
of vaporisers. the motor
Evaporation residue - Measures information concerning the actual limit of residues at the end of the
feed cycle in an effort to increase the durability of autogas kits.
Is the important parameter for boosting the efficiency of technologies needed for Vehicle LPG has a
alignment with the standards concerning pollutant emissions. lower sulphur content
Sulphur content
compared with other
petroleum fuels
B. Non-critical
characteristics - Measure which ensures that difficulties do not appear in the operation of
benchmarks for copper and copper alloys which comprise the functional storage
Copper corrosion and transport equipment;

- Is also a reliable measure of the sulphurated hydrogen content whose presence

Sulphurated affects health and safety.
hydrogen
- The lack of specific moisture in propane-type autogas and free water which is
Water content characteristic of C3:C4 mixtures does not ensure that pressure regulators and
similar equipment operate without any faults produced by frost caused by the
separation or dissolution of water from autogas.
Odorisation level - Is a measure needed to detect losses of autogas via a characteristic, distinctive
and unpleasant odour.
Methanol is
Methanol content - At low temperature, the autogas associated with the moisture and/or free water incorporated to
produces ice which blocks the regulators. prevent frost
problems by reducing
the dew point for the
dissolution of water

36
 Table A2.3. “Motor” octane number for autogas *
Motor octane number (MON)
Components
Molar Mass Volume
Propane (+C2) 95.4 95.9 95.6
Propylene (propene) 83.9 82.8 83.1
n-butane (+C5) 89.0 88.9 88.9
2-Methylpropane (isobutane) 97.2 97.1 97.1
Butenes 75.8 76.8 75.7
*The factors for determining the “engine” octane number are empirical values; molar factors are used in
calculations;

37
 Annex 3

Safety requirements governing autogas use

A3.1. Hazard identification labelling used in the transport of autogas

GPL

A3.2. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)

Date:……………………………………
Date of previous edition: ……………… Autogas (LPGc)
Version/revision: ……………………

1. IDENTIFICTION OF THE SUBSTANCE AND PRODUCER’S NAME

Product names Vehicle LPG
Autogas
LPGc
Chemical formula
Manufacturer identification details
Emergency telephone number

2. COMPOSITION/INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS
Substance/preparation The substance
Ingredients/impurities Does not contain other ingredients, even impurities which could modify
the classification of the product
CAS no. 73-98-6
EINECS no. 270-990-9
3. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION Liquefied gas. Extremely flammable

4. FIRST AID MEASURES

In case of inhalation
Contact with the skin and eyes
Ingestion
May induce asphyxiation at elevated concentrations. Symptoms consist
of loss of consciousness or motor function. The victim may not be aware
of the asphyxiation. May have narcotic effects at low concentrations.
Symptoms consist of dizziness, headache, nausea and loss of co-
ordination. Move the victim to an uncontaminated area and use
independent breathing equipment. Leave the victim in a warm place and
at rest. Seek medical assistance. Perform artificial respiration if the
victim has stopped breathing.
In the event of spillage of liquid product, wash the site with clean water
for at least 15 minutes.
Ingestion is not considered to be a possible means of exposure.

38