Promoting safe practices in the propane industry is a top priority for the CPA. Hence, the CPA responded to two articles provided in Northern Star Communication's Mar-Apr 2020 issue of Propane Canada Magazine that provided false/misleading information.
The first story, "Do-It-Yourself method on propane lines", provided a description on how to update propane lines in an RV. The article stated that anyone can do this work, providing a description of the equipment needed, and then informing the reader that the final installation after completion should be inspected by a licensed propane supplier. The CPA indicated that this was unacceptable as current adopted CSA code requirements indicate that only a properly trained indivdiual can modify propane installations.
The second story, "Danger of overfill of propane cylinders", discussed the dangers of overfilling propane cylinders. In the steps required to fix the problem, the story indicates: "Release excess pressure through the pressure relief valve and then open the bleeder valve…” The story then states that the next step is to provide an ignition source by indicating a consumer should “turn on stove burners and burn off excess gas.”
In its response to the publication, the CPA noted that consumers should not engage in “managing” overfilled propane cylinders.
The CPA indicated its concerns to the publisher to ensure safe and accurate information was being provided to readers. Corrections have since been issued for both stories.