Regulations for Propane Cylinders

Protective Collar

• Every propane tank must have a protective collar around its valve. This collar serves to protect the valve from damage. As an attached, narrow part, the valve is vulnerable to being knocked out of place, releasing dangerous, flammable gases and also potentially causing the tank to act as a projectile as it discharges its contents. A propane tank collar also serves as a surface on which a manufacturer can stamp information about the tank's specification and construction data.

Stability

• All propane tanks must have foot rings attached to their base to hold them upright. It is illegal to refill a tank that does not have a foot ring. Without this ring, it would be very easy to accidentally kick over the tank, causing it to roll around or knock over the appliance to which it is attached. In addition, fire department regulations for commercial use of propane tanks require that there be an added source of stability, such as inserting the tank into a milk crate with a square bottom or attaching it to the leg of an outdoor shelter.

Structural Integrity

• A propane tank cannot show any signs of damages that might interfere with its ability to seal in propane gas. Because propane tanks are portable, they are sometimes subject to rough handling that can damage them. A propane tank cannot have punctures, dents or bulges. Even if there is no sign of a definite leak, a dent or bulge weakens the metal, compromising the tank's ability to hold gas without leaking.