Technical Safety BC (TSBC) has sent the CPA a draft Directive for consultation – Propane Filling Plants and Container Refill Centers. The Directive is TSBC’s proposal to comply with clause 7.12.6 of CSA B149.2 which states that in “heavily populated or congested areas, the authority having jurisdiction may determine restrictions on individual tank capacity, total storage” and other requirements.
The CPA has reviewed the draft directive and has highlighted some potential issues for its members, including the significant additional building costs associated with the proposed requirement to bury tanks for new filling plants or refilling centres. The CPA will request further explanations on the reasoning behind adding this requirement to the standard. The CPA will also compare this directive with the requirements for the installation of natural gas, gasoline, and diesel fuels facilities.
Furthermore, the CPA has concerns for the propane distribution network and the impact on consumers. As it stands, many refilling stations are located at gasoline stations/convenience stores and a requirement to bury tanks will impact the decision to offer propane and potentially restricting the expansion of propane as a viable alternative fuel.
The CPA is asking members to review and send their comments on the draft directive to Darren Cunningham, Director of Government Relations – West to darrencunningham@propane.ca before December 11.
Members can also send their comments to TSBC directly by emailing Kelsey Schneider at Kelsey.Schneider@technicalsafetybc.ca referencing TSBC directive # D-G5 051206 7 by December 13. Please copy Darren Cunningham on your submission so that the CPA has a complete record of the comments.