DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS · 2014-03-27 · IV DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS PERC...

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TRAINING MANUAL DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS PRC-009432

Transcript of DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS · 2014-03-27 · IV DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS PERC...

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TRAINING MANUAL

DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGASPRC-009432

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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

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Propane Education & Research Council 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW Suite 1075 Washington, DC 20036

202-452-8975 www.propanecouncil.org

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is a non-profit 501(c) 6 trade organization authorized by the Propane Education and Research Act of 1996 (PERA), Public Law 104-284. PERC was created “to enhance consumer and employee safety and training, to provide for research and development of clean and efficient propane utilization equipment, and to inform and educate the public about safety and other issues associated with the use of propane.”

PERC is governed by a 21-member Board of Directors appointed by the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) and the Gas Processors Association (GPA). PERC program beneficiaries include propane retail marketers, producers, transporters, and agricultural cooperatives, as well as representatives of allied service and supply industries (industry members).

The recommendations, standards, or recommended practices, as reflected in this document, were developed by independent consultants retained by PERC. While PERC administers the process of obtaining the information, it does not independently test or verify the accuracy of the information or methods used to collect the data that support the conclusions or recommendations reflected in this document.

PERC, NPGA, GPA, and the industry members disclaim any liability for any personal injury, property damage, business losses, or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether special, indirect, consequential, or compensatory, directly or indirectly resulting from the publication, use, or reliance on this document, or any information, apparatus, method, process, or similar item disclosed in this document. This disclaimer of liability shall apply even if such loss or damage results, in whole or in part, from any acts or omissions of

or by any negligence on the part of PERC, NPGA, GPA, or the industry members or any persons who contributed to the development of the information contained in this document. PERC, NPGA, GPA, and the industry members make no warranty or guarantee as to the accuracy or completeness of any information published in this document.

The procedures and information in this document are intended to implement the standards set forth in the documents referenced with capabilities of the personnel and equipment available. It does not create new standards or criteria for compliance. The order of steps in any procedure may or may not be of importance. This material is not sold nor is it a product of any consulting or engineering activity.

Users of this document should consult the law of their individual jurisdictions for codes, standards, and legal requirements applicable to them. This document is not intended nor should it be construed to (1) set forth policies or procedures that are the general custom or practice in the propane industry; (2) establish the legal standards of care owed by propane distributors to their customers; or (3) prevent the user from using different methods to implement applicable codes, standards, or legal requirements.

By disseminating or publishing this document, PERC is not undertaking to render any professional or other service to or on behalf of any person or entity. PERC, NPGA, GPA, and the industry members are not undertaking to perform any duty owed by any person or entity to any third party. Anyone reading or using this document should rely on his or her own judgment or, as appropriate, seek the advice of a competent professional in determining the exercise of reasonable care in any and all circumstances.

OPENING NOTICES

NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER CONCERNING LIABILITY

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

PERC gratefully acknowledges the generosity and cooperation of the following companies for providing personnel, equipment, and technical assistance:

• Bergquist, Inc., Toledo, OH

• CHS Inc., Inver Grove Heights, MN

• Corken, Inc., Oklahoma City, OK

• Ferrellgas, Liberty MO

• Minnesota Propane Association, Princeton, MN

• National Propane Gas Association, Washington, DC

• RegO Products, Elon, NC

• Roush CleanTech, Livonia, IL

• Shaffer’s Bottled Gas Corp., Hooversville, PA

• Superior Energy Systems, Columbia Station, OH

We also gratefully acknowledge the technical input and guidance of the following individuals, who served as subject matter experts and reviewers:

• Don Crowder, Corken Inc.

• Ray Kazakewich, RegO Products

• Roger Leider, Minnesota Propane Association

• Bryan Lewis, CHS Inc.

• Bruce Montroy, Bergquist, Inc.

• Jeff Shaffer, Shaffer’s Bottled Gas Corp.

• Bruce Swiecicki, National Propane Gas Association

• Mike Walters, Superior Energy Systems

• Randy Warner, Ferrellgas

• Rufus Youngblood, Ferrellgas

The material and other information included in this program are intended to provide general guidance only on the subject matter addressed. They are not intended to be a substitute for the personal instruction, guidance, and advice of a professional with training and experience in the safe and proper use of propane.

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ABOUT THE PROGRAM Dispensing Propane Autogas is a training module funded by the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC). The module provides information about propane, using propane autogas (autogas) as a vehicle fuel, and the tasks and decisions required to safety and effectively dispense autogas into vehicles.

Trainees for this module include individuals who fuel autogas vehicles for fleet or other commercial operations. Trainees will vary in their backgrounds, knowledge, skills, and job experiences.

THE MODULE INCLUDES THESE LESSONS:

• Lesson1 Overview of Propane.

• Lesson2 Properties and Characteristics of Autogas.

• Lesson3 Types and Basic Operation of Autogas Dispensers.

• Lesson4 Autogas Dispenser Operation.

• Lesson5 Demonstration, Practice, and Performance Test.

THE MODULE HAS TWO MAIN COMPONENTS, INCLUDING:

• A classroom / conference room presentation conducted at or near the autogas fueling site.

• A field-based component conducted at the autogas fueling site, including

Ω A demonstration of fueling a vehicle with autogas.

Ω Hands-on practice for trainees to fuel a vehicle with autogas, and

Ω A short performance test that trainees complete.

Contact PERC (202-452-8975) for more information.

OPENING NOTICES

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INTRODUCTION: DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

LESSON 1: OVERVIEW OF PROPANE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3What is Propane and Where Does it Come From? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Uses of Propane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Autogas Globally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Autogas in the U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4What are the Benefits/Advantages of Using Autogas? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Fueling Site Equipment and Vehicle Safety Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Businesses and Vehicles that Use Autogas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

LESSON 2: PROPERTIES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF AUTOGAS . . . . . . . . . 5Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Safety Data Sheet (SDS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Physical Properties of Propane and What This Means to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Unsafe Conditions: Propane, Ignition, and Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

LESSON 3: TYPES AND BASIC OPERATION OF AUTOGAS DISPENSERS . . . 9Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Features of Autogas Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Features of Autogas Dispensers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

LESSON 4: AUTOGAS DISPENSER OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Vehicle Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Propane Tank Safety Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Safe Dispensing Habits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Uncontrolled Propane Leaks and Fires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Propane Emergency Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16General Process to Dispense Autogas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

LESSON 5: DEMONSTRATION, PRACTICE, AND PERFORMANCE TEST . . . 21Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21During the Demonstration, Pay Attention to These Items:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Short Performance Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

RESOURCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

CONTENTS: DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

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This training module provides information about propane, using propane autogas (autogas) as a vehicle fuel, and the tasks and decisions required to safety and effectively dispense autogas into vehicles. Propane is also referred to as Liquefied Petroleum Gas, LP-Gas, or LPG.

The module includes these lessons:

• Lesson1 Overview of Propane.

• Lesson2 Properties and Characteristics of Autogas.

• Lesson3 Types and Basic Operation of Autogas Dispensers.

• Lesson4 Autogas Dispenser Operation.

• Lesson5 Demonstration, Practice, and Performance Test.

Lessons 1 through 3 include general information about propane, and using autogas as a vehicle fuel.

Lesson 4 provides a description of dispenser operation, and how to dispense autogas into a vehicle.

Lesson 5 includes a demonstration of the process to dispense autogas, and then time for you to practice these steps with the actual equipment, then have a short test so you are confident you can do this after the training session.

INTRODUCTION: DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

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LESSON 1: OVERVIEW OF PROPANE

INTRODUCTION

This lesson provides general information about propane. You will learn about what propane is, U.S. production, and how propane fuels fleet vehicles around the country. It also provides information about the benefits of using this safe alternative fuel.

At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Identify the different types of organizations that use autogas.

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WHAT IS PROPANE AND WHERE DOES IT COME FROM?

Propane is a hydrocarbon. It is also known as Liquefied Petroleum Gas, LP-Gas, or LPG. Propane is produced domestically during oil refining and natural gas processing.

USES OF PROPANE

• Millions in the U.S. use propane every day.

• Home uses include furnaces, water heaters, generators, outdoor grills, fireplaces, and appliances.

• Farm uses include pest control, crop dryers, and power irrigation pumps.

• Industrial uses include propane-fueled forklifts and fleet vehicles.

• Commercial uses, such as restaurants and hotels, include heating, cooking, and other uses.

• Companies are using propane to fuel vehicles and fleets; propane used to fuel vehicles is called autogas.

AUTOGAS GLOBALLY

• Autogas has been used to power vehicles for nearly 100 years.

• Currently, about 17 million autogas-fueled vehicles are in use; autogas is the most widely used alternative transportation fuel worldwide.

• By 2020, autogas vehicles sold will surpass 1.4 million, and more than 22 million vehicles will run on autogas.

AUTOGAS IN THE U .S .

• Autogas is the third most common vehicle fuel after gasoline and diesel.

• Refueling a propane vehicle takes about the same time as refueling a gasoline vehicle.

• Propane fueling stations are located in every state; there are more autogas refueling stations in the U.S. than for any other alternative fuel.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS / ADVANTAGES OF USING AUTOGAS?

Propane is plentiful, affordable, and produced in the U.S.

• Propane is safe. Autogas is non-toxic and presents no hazards to soil and groundwater.

• Propane is environmentally friendly. Autogas is one of the cleanest burning fuels.

FUELING SITE EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLE SAFETY DEVICES

Autogas tanks are safe. Propane tanks are more puncture resistant than gasoline tanks.

Fueling site equipment and vehicles have safety devices:

• Propane is dispensed in a closed system.

• Dispensing equipment uses low emission release transfer.

• Use of emergency shutoff devices.

• Propane vehicles are fitted with safety devices that prevent overfilling, and devices and shut-off valves that function automatically.

BUSINESSES AND VEHICLES THAT USE AUTOGAS

• Light duty vehicles, delivery trucks, and vans.

• Public transportation and specialty vehicles.

• Transit buses, school buses, and shuttle buses.

• U.S. National Park Service.

• Taxicabs.

• Law enforcement vehicles.

• Consumer Market is growing.

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LESSON 2:PROPERTIES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF AUTOGAS

INTRODUCTION

In this lesson you will learn how autogas properties relate to safety at the fueling site. You will learn how to detect propane, and how propane reacts in a gas or in a liquid form. You will also learn that propane is non-toxic, but can be a frostbite hazard.

At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Recognize how autogas properties relate to safety at the fueling site.

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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

PROPANE PROPERTIES / CHARACTERISTICS:

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU:

A strong, unpleasant-smelling chemical is added to propane so you can detect it. The chemical added to propane makes it smell like rotten eggs, a skunk’s spray, or a dead animal. You should respond immediately to even a faint odor of propane.

Whatthismeanstoyou:

• If for any reason you cannot recognize the smell of propane, notify your supervisor.

• Your safety could depend on your ability to smell propane in the event of a leak.

Propane is stored and transported as a liquid under pressure.

When released into the atmosphere, liquid propane appears as a white cloud or fog at the point of discharge.

Whatthismeanstoyou:

• Propane is transferred during the vehicle fueling process by a closed, pressurized system; this keeps it in a liquid state.

• If liquid propane leaks, it will turn into a vapor.

• When you complete the autogas fueling process, you may see, smell, or hear a small release of propane from the nozzle.

Propane becomes very cold when released to the atmosphere.

Whatthismeanstoyou:

• If propane liquid leaks onto your skin, it can cause frostbite or freeze burns.

• Wear gloves or other personal protective equipment (PPE) resistant to propane when filling a vehicle.

• Check and follow employer requirements for PPE.

(Continued on next page.)

KEPT UNDER PRESSURE

VERY COLD

ASafetyDataSheet(SDS) is available from propane suppliers or distributors and must be available and accessible to all employees at the workplace. The SDS provides important information on propane including physical properties, health effects, first aid, safety precautions, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

ODORIn its natural state, propane is colorless, odorless, and tasteless.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF PROPANE

The information below describes properties and characteristics of propane, and what this means to you when you are working around propane.

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PROPANE PROPERTIES / CHARACTERISTICS:

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU:

PROPANE VAPOR IS HEAVIER THAN AIR

If propane escapes, vapor can accumulate in low-lying areas. However, air currents can sometimes carry propane vapors elsewhere.

If you breathe a higher concentration of propane vapor it takes the place of oxygen in your lungs.

Whatthismeanstoyou:

• Inhaling higher concentrations of propane vapor may cause light-headedness, dizziness, and drowsiness.

• Excessive inhalation of propane vapor may cause unconsciousness or even death, due to asphyxiation.

NON-TOXIC Propane is environmentally friendly; if released it will not affect water, air, soil, or you – except:

Whatthismeanstoyou:

• Propane liquid is very cold and may cause freeze burns or frostbite.

• If inhaled in high concentration, it takes the place of oxygen in your lungs.

• Propane is non-toxic and therefore will not harm the environment.

LIQUID PROPANE EXPANDS SIGNIFICANTLY AND RAPIDLY AS IT VAPORIZES

One part of liquid propane will expand to become 270 parts propane vapor. If a gallon of liquid propane is released it turns into 270 times that volume as vapor.

Whatthismeanstoyou:

Because of the large expansion rate, a liquid propane leak can be more hazardous than a propane vapor leak.

• While any propane leak is serious, a liquid propane leak may become much larger than a propane vapor leak.

LIQUID PROPANE EXPANDS WHEN THE TEMPERATURE INCREASES

In pressurized tanks, propane liquid expands 1.5 percent for every 10-degree rise in temperature of the liquid. Propane tanks are usually filled to only 80% of their capacity to allow room for propane to expand with an increase in temperature.

Vehicles that use autogas for fuel have safety devices to prevent overfilling the vehicle tank.

Whatthismeanstoyou:

• Remember that propane liquid expands with an increase in temperature.

• A 20-gallon tank would be filled with only 16 gallons of propane.

• Because autogas tanks have an overfilling prevention device to allow room for expansion, the flow of propane automatically stops when the overfill prevention device signals the tank is 80% full.

LESSON 2: PROPERTIES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF AUTOGAS

(Continued on next page.)

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UNSAFE CONDITIONS: PROPANE, IGNITION, AND FIRE

Three ingredients are needed to start and sustain combustion—fuel, oxygen, and an ignition source. Minimize possible ignition sources that could lead to combustion.

UNSAFE CONDITIONS: BE AWARE OF POTENTIAL IGNITION SOURCES

No smoking.

Do not strike matches or light a cigarette lighter.

Avoid sources of static electricity.

Do not use cell phones and other electronic devices.

Always turn off vehicle engine before refueling.

PROPANE PROPERTIES / CHARACTERISTICS:

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU:

FLAMMABILITY AND IGNITION Propane is a fuel; it will ignite and burn under the right conditions. Propane is safe when properly stored, handled, transported, and used.

• Immediately react to any propane leak. Always check and follow the fueling site’s safety procedures.

• Avoid ignition sources around propane.

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LESSON 3: TYPES AND BASIC OPERATION OF AUTOGAS DISPENSERS

INTRODUCTION

In this lesson you will learn about the types and basic operation of autogas dispensers, including equipment and features most commonly used at fueling sites.

At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Describe the different types of autogas dispensers.

• Identify autogas dispenser safety devices and explain and why these items are used when dispensing autogas.

• Describe when to use an emergency shutoff, and what actions you should take in this situation.

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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

FEATURES OF AUTOGAS VEHICLES

• Vehicle fuel systems are closed, pressurized systems to keep the propane in its liquid state.

• Vehicle tank fill valves have threaded connections, so the dispenser nozzle can be connected and tightened to the fill valve.

• Autogas vehicle tanks are filled to only 80%. An overfilling prevention device, located in the fuel tank, stops fueling when the fuel level reaches 80%.

FEATURES OF AUTOGAS DISPENSERS

Autogas dispensing systems are very similar to gasoline or diesel dispensing systems, with a few important differences:

• Autogas dispensing are closed, pressurized systems to keep the propane in its liquid state.

• Autogas dispensers use a nozzle that has a closed, threaded connection to maintain pressure while transferring propane.

To dispense propane safely, be familiar with the specific equipment you are working with and how to use it.

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COMPONENTS:: NOTES

DISPENSER DISPLAY

LOW EMISSION NOZZLE

HOSE ASSEMBLY

EMERGENCY SHUTOFF

LESSON 3:TYPES AND BASIC OPERATION OF AUTOGAS DISPENSERS

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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

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INTRODUCTION

In this lesson you will learn about general safety when dispensing autogas. You will also learn the general actions to perform when you dispense autogas into a vehicle. As dispensing systems vary, always follow your specific fueling site instructions when you dispense autogas.

At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Identify general safety guidelines you should follow when dispensing autogas.

• Identify emergency safety procedures and actions you should take when dispensing autogas.

• List the general actions, in order, to dispense autogas into a vehicle.

LESSON 4: AUTOGAS DISPENSER OPERATIONLESSON 4:AUTOGAS DISPENSER OPERATION

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VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION

• Propane identification decals are mounted on the lower right rear of the vehicle (above the bumper).

• Decal is black, diamond shaped with a luminous light silver or white border, and with the word “PROPANE.”

Notes:

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SAFE DISPENSING HABITS

• Keep the dispensing area clear except for objects necessary for dispensing.

• Vehicle ignition must be off before dispensing autogas.

• All ignition sources must be a minimum of 25 feet away from the refueling site.

Ω Do not strike matches or light a cigarette lighter.

Ω Do not smoke.

Ω Avoid sources of static electricity.

Ω Do not use cell phones.

• Report any propane leaks immediately.

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

It is a code requirement that at least one fire extinguisher be easily accessible at the fueling site. It is important to note that fire extinguishers are not intended to put out propane fires and can only cover a limited area when used. They are effective, however, for small fires, such as those involving combustible materials, and can be helpful in creating an escape route for personnel.

Always look for the fire extinguisher at your fueling site prior to refueling. Be aware of fueling site policies or procedures.

PROPANE TANK SAFETY FEATURES

• Autogas tanks have automatic safety devices that prevent overfilling.

• Autogas vehicle tanks are more puncture resistant, and withstand more pressure when compared to a gasoline tank.

Notes:

LESSON 4: AUTOGAS DISPENSER OPERATION

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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

UNCONTROLLED PROPANE LEAKS AND FIRES

Any uncontrolled release of propane or a fire can be extremely dangerous. Know the location of your fueling site’s emergency shutdown device(s). Always place safety first!

PROPANE EMERGENCY ACTIONS

Follow these steps:

1.Shutdownthedispenser. Use the emergency shutoff(s).

2.Immediatelyevacuatethearea. Immediately, everyone in the affected area should move to a safe distance from the spill or leak. Do not re-enter the area.

3.Callforhelp. After you are at a safe distance from the affected area, call 911 or the local fire department.

4.Whenhelparrives,donotinterfere.Emergency responders, including firefighters, HAZMAT crews, and emergency medical technicians are the only personnel qualified to provide leadership in emergencies involving propane. When the emergency response team arrives, do not interfere.

Your fueling site should have specific instructions for you to follow in both routine and emergency situations. Be aware of and follow fueling site policies or procedures.

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GENERAL PROCESS TO DISPENSE AUTOGAS

Just like a gasoline station and gasoline dispenser, each autogas fueling site and dispenser will have instructions on how to use the dispensing equipment. The equipment at different fueling sites varies, so always follow instructions for equipment at your fueling site. For more information, refer to Propane Autogas Dispenser Specifications in Resources.

The autogas dispensing process varies, based on the type of nozzle used. The steps below are based on using a typical nozzle for autogas fueling.

Follow these steps:

LESSON 4: AUTOGAS DISPENSER OPERATION

(Continued on next page.)

1. Turn off the vehicle.

2. Know personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements and follow them.

3. Check there are no open flames or other ignition sources within 25 feet near the vehicle refueling.

4. Open the fuel door, and then unscrew the dust cap from the fill valve.

5. Check the seal, gasket or O-ring for any tears, breaks, or cuts. If damaged or missing, do not dispense until replaced.

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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

6. Remove the nozzle from the dispenser.

9. Pull the handle on the dispenser nozzle to start fueling. When the fuel level in the tank reaches 80% storage capacity, the fuel flow will automatically stop (varies by the equipment).

7. Screw the nozzle tightly on the fill valve, ensuring a proper fit. An improper fit could cause a leak.

10. Release the handle, then deactivate the dispenser (varies by equipment).

8. Activate the dispenser (this varies by the equipment, push to start button shown here).

11. When you release the handle and/or unscrew the nozzle, a small release of autogas vapor may occur.

Improperly threaded nozzle on the fill valve may lead to a dangerous leak.

If more than a short release occurs, follow fueling site instructions to resolve.

(Continued on next page.)

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12. After unscrewing the nozzle:

• Return the nozzle to the dispenser.

• Replace the cap on the fill valve; and

• Shut the fuel fill door.

13. If applicable, record refueling information.

LESSON 4: AUTOGAS DISPENSER OPERATION

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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

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LESSON 5: DEMONSTRATION, PRACTICE, AND PERFORMANCE TEST

INTRODUCTION

During this part of the training, you will watch someone explain and demonstrate the proper method to dispense autogas into a vehicle. During this demonstration, ask any questions about the equipment or the process to dispense autogas. You will also have hands-on practice so you can dispense autogas, and then you will have a short performance test to demonstrate that you can safely dispense autogas into a vehicle.

At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Perform all tasks, effectively and in proper sequence, to dispense autogas into a vehicle.

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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

DESCRIPTION OF STEP

Where is the system emergency shutoff at your fueling site?

Do you know how to use this and when to use this?

Where is the fire extinguisher at your fueling site?

Do you know how to use this and when to use it?

What is the emergency action plan at your fueling site?

What actions you should take in the event of an emergency?

Look at your fueling site; in the event of an autogas leak, where would the vapor accumulate (where are any low-lying areas)?

DURING THE DEMONSTRATION, PAY ATTENTION TO THESE ITEMS:

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DESCRIPTION OF STEP

Do you understand the autogas storage and dispensing equipment and systems at your fueling site?

What PPE must you use at your fueling site?

Where do you obtain PPE?

Where are the printed instructions (autogas dispenser fueling procedures) on the autogas dispenser at your fueling site?

Demonstration: Watch and listen as the instructor (or designee) describes and demonstrates the process to fuel vehicle with autogas.

If you have any questions during the demonstration, ask for more information.

LESSON 5: DEMONSTRATION, PRACTICE, AND PERFORMANCE TEST

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Locate the system emergency shutoff at your fueling site. Explain when you would use it and how you would use it.

Locate the fire extinguisher at your fueling site. Explain when you would use it and how you would use it.

Explain the PPE you must use at your fueling site. Obtain the PPE you will need prior to refueling.

Locate and read the printed instructions (autogas dispenser fueling procedures) on the autogas dispenser.

Fuel a vehicle: Wearing appropriate PPE, and using the printed instructions on the autogas dispenser, describe your actions as you fuel a vehicle with autogas.• Correctly connect nozzle to fill valve.

• Correctly disconnect nozzle from fill valve.

Trainee name: Date:

Instructor name: Date:

SHORT PERFORMANCE TEST

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RESOURCES

www.autogasusa.org

This Propane Education & Research Council (PERC)-sponsored website provides information on the several different types of propane-autogas-fueled vehicles (and other types of propane equipment), fueling with autogas, adoption incentives, and autogas webinars.

www.propanesafety.com

This PERC website provides information and training dates for the Propane Emergencies program.

www.afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/propane.html

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center website delivers information on various alternative-fueled vehicles, including those fueled by autogas.

www.afdc.energy.gov/laws/

The U.S. Department of Energy’s website with searchable federal and state laws and incentives.

www1.eere.energy.gov/cleancities/national parks.html

The U.S. Department of Energy Clean Cities National Park Initiative offers a website where you can learn more about how autogas is used in our national park system.

www.propanemarc.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=4714

Propane Autogas Dispenser Specifications.

RESOURCES

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DISPENSING PROPANE AUTOGAS

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PROP

ANE

AUTO

GAS

CERTIFICATE OF TRAININGPropane Education & Research Council (PERC)

has successfully completed the

Dispensing Propane Autogas Training Module

To be filled in by the Employee:

This is to certify that on , I, (Employee's signature)

completed the PERC Training Module for Dispensing Propane Autogas. I understood the training, I have had an opportunity to ask questions, and all of my questions were properly answered. I have had hands-on practice to dispense autogas into a vehicle, and can effectively perform this task.

To be filled in by the Employer or the Trainer:

This is to certify that on , the above-named employee completed Dispensing Propane Autogas training. The training materials used to meet the training requirements are available at the employer's office.

(Employer) (Trainer)

(Address of Person Providing the Training)

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