CSA Group CSA B149.2:25 National Standard of Canada Propane storage and handling code

"Preface

This is the thirteenth edition of CSA B149.2, Propane storage and handling code. It supersedes the previous editions, published in 2020, 2015, 2010, 2005, and 2000 by CSA Group, in 1995, 1991, 1986, 1980, 1978, and 1976 by the Canadian Gas Association (CGA), and in 1969 by CSA Group.

The major changes to this edition include the following:

a) updated Code scope exclusions to clarify the threshold between CSA B149.1 and this Code [Clause 1.2 k)];

b) added new non-refillable container categories 2P1, 2P2, and 2Q2 (Clauses 3, 5.2.3, 6.1.1, 6.1.4, 6.5.1.3 and O.1.4);

c) added requirements for self-service vehicle fuel dispensers (Clauses 3 and 7.20.14.1);

d) clarified that underground tanks are either buried or mounded (Clause 3);

e) clarified hazardous location zone terminology (Clauses 4.10.2, 4.10.3, and 8.5.2 and Table 7.6);

f) added requirements for vehicles equipped with propane appliances in repair garages (Clause 5.12.7);

g) updated cylinder storage clearances (Table 6.3);

h) added requirements for cylinders below grade at construction sites (Clause 6.5.3.9);

i) updated requirements for a line of adjoining property to be consistent with other clauses (Clauses 6.5.2.4 and 7.14.2);

j) clarified the separation requirements between cylinders and adjacent tanks (Clause 6.7.8);

k) clarified requirements for interconnected tanks in liquid service (Clause 7.1.10);

l) updated exceptions for a shut-off valve or other device installed between a relief valve and a tank (Clause 7.2.4);

m) clarified installation requirements for underground tanks (Clause 7.8.1);

n) added compounds complying to UL 1746 as a suitable outer surface tank coating (Clause 7.8.4);

o) clarified requirements for location of consumer tanks (Clause 7.10);

p) clarified requirements for buildings containing a vaporizer (Clauses 7.17.3 and 9.1.4);

q) added reference to UL 567 for breakaway quick-closing couplings (Clause 7.20.9); and

r) clarified only vehicle fuel dispensers used for custody fuel transfers shall be listed to UL 495 or certified to CSA 12.4 (Clause 7.20.13).

This Code was prepared by the Technical Committee on Propane Storage and Handling, under the Fuels and Appliances Strategic Steering Committee, and has been formally approved by the Technical Committee and the Interprovincial/Territorial Gas Advisory Council.

This Code has been developed in compliance with Standards Council of Canada requirements for National Standards of Canada. It has been published as a National Standard of Canada by CSA Group. Notes:

1)  Use of the singular does not exclude the plural (and vice versa) when the sense allows.

2)  Although the intended primary application of this Code is stated in its Scope, it is important to note that it remains the responsibility of the users of the Code to judge its suitability for their particular purpose.

3)  This Code was developed by consensus, which is defined by CSA Policy governing standardization — Code of good practice for standardization as “substantial agreement. Consensus implies much more than a simple majority, but not necessarily unanimity”. It is consistent with this definition that a member may be included in the Technical Committee list and yet not be in full agreement with all clauses of this Code.

4)  To submit a request for interpretation of this Code, please send the following information to [email protected] and include “Request for interpretation” in the subject line:

a) define the problem, making reference to the specific clause, and, where appropriate, include a graphical

image;

b)  provide an explanation of circumstances surrounding the actual field condition; and

c) where possible, phrase the request in such a way that a specific “yes” or “no” answer will address the issue.

Committee interpretations are processed in accordance with CSA Directives and guidelines governing standardization and are available on the Current Standards Activities page at standardsactivities.csagroup.org.

5)  This Code is subject to review within five years from the date of publication. Suggestions for its improvement will be referred to the appropriate committee. To submit a proposal for change, please send the following information to [email protected] and include “Proposal for change” in the subject line:

a) Code designation (number);

b) relevant clause, table, and/or figure number;

c) wording of the proposed change; and

d) rationale for the change."

1 Scope

1.1 Inclusions

This Code applies to

1. a) the storage, handling, and transfer of propane;
2. b) propane used as an engine fuel in other than motor vehicles; and
3. c) the installation, operation, and maintenance of containers and equipment to be used for propane at customer locations, in distribution locations and filling plants.

1.2 Exclusions

This Code does not apply to

a) transportation of propane;

b) manufacture, selection, and use of standardized means of containment under the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act and Regulations;

c) new containers which have not contained propane or used containers identified as having been purged to less than 5% of the LEL as determined by a calibrated gas meter;

d) marine or pipeline terminals;

e)  gas where used as a feedstock in petroleum refineries or chemical plants;

f) utility pipeline distribution and transmission pipelines;

g) refrigerated storage or underground formations for propane;

h) propane used on boats;

i) propane used as a propellant in aerosol containers;

j) butane fuel cylinders of 6.2 oz (175 g) capacity or less;

k) any equipment extending downstream from the outlet of any propane container pressure regulator (commonly referred to as first-stage regulator);

l) the installation of propane fuel system components and containers on vehicles covered by CSA B149.5; and

m) propane used as refrigerant.

1.3 Fuel

Where the term “propane” is used, the requirements of this Code include, and apply equally to, any material that is composed predominantly of any of the following hydrocarbons or mixtures of them: propane, propylene, butanes (normal butane or isobutane), and butylenes.

1.4 No guarantee

This Code and any standards referenced in it do not make or imply any assurance or guarantee with respect to the life expectancy, durability, or operating performance of equipment and materials referenced in the Code.

1.5 Units of measurement

The values given in US customary units are the units of record for the purposes of this Code. The values given in parentheses are for information and comparison only.

1.6 Terminology

In this Code, “shall” is used to express a requirement, i.e., a provision that the user is obliged to satisfy in order to comply with the Code; “should” is used to express a recommendation or that which is advised but not required; and “may” is used to express an option or that which is permissible within the limits of the Code.

Notes accompanying clauses do not include requirements or alternative requirements; the purpose of a note accompanying a clause is to separate from the text explanatory or informative material.

Notes to tables and figures are considered part of the table or figure and may be written as requirements.

Annexes are designated normative (mandatory) or informative (non-mandatory) to define their application.