How Safe is Your Yacht's Gas System? Part 4: Leak Detection & Management

Make Sure You Know What to Do!

In Part 3, we looked at the gas system components needed to comply with recommended manufacturing standards (Part 1).  This followed from a Part 2 post covering gas bottles and storage.  My final section looks at how you can detect a leak on board and what action to take.

 Leak Detection

Installing a bubble leak detector close to the gas bottles provides a quick, easy and safe way to check for any leaks in the system itself – from the pipes, hoses, joints, valves or appliances.  You can then use a solution of detergent in water to trace the exact place of the leak, the escaping gas will cause the liquid to bubble.

Other types of leak detectors link to a pressure gauge at the regulator.

It is also worth considering fitting a gas alarm on board – this is mandatory if you operate under a commercial licence.  Modern gas detectors can have more than one sensor location and will detect other gases such as carbon monoxide as well as LPG in low concentrations before they become a serious threat to life.  A gas alarm will emit a loud siren in the presence of dangerous gases.

A Fireboy-Xintex Alarm Available from Chandlers

The more expensive gas alarms are connected to a solenoid switch at the regulator which closes off the gas supply in the event of a leak.

Leak Prevention

• Regularly inspect your gas installation for wear, and make sure any changes are carried out by someone who knows what they're doing.  In the UK it's mandatory to use a registered Gas Fitter.
• Always turn off the gas supply at the bottle if leaving your boat for any length of time.
• Don’t leave the galley stove unattended whilst the burners are being used.

In the Event of a Leak

LPG has an added “smell” which is detectible at low concentrations so a leak is usually quickly detectable if your alarm hasn’t sounded.

DO NOT

• Flick any electrical switches e.g. turn on lights etc.
  
• Press any buttons on your mobile phone, the small electrical spark may be just enough to trigger an explosion
  
• Light a cigarette!

DO

• Evacuate everyone from the boat
  
• Close off the main gas shut-off valve near the tanks.
  
• Open all of the windows, doors & hatches and lift the floorboards to encourage air throughflow
  
• Call the fire brigade if you think it is necessary

For more information see the BSS Leaflet on Avoiding  LPG Fires.