Thailand to classify gas canisters as controlled products
New rules aim to curb restaurant blasts as safety concerns flare across dining hotspots
Thailand’s Ministry of Industry proposes categorising gas canisters as a controlled product amid rising incidents of explosions at barbecue restaurants.
Minister Ekanat Prompan highlighted the increasing popularity of barbecue eateries, which often use gas canisters for grills, and noted the risks of reusing canisters, which are designed for single use only.
Despite existing safety standards, consumers are urged to adhere strictly to usage guidelines and warnings. Gas canisters for portable stoves, made for single use, must not be refilled, especially with LPG, due to differing pressure levels. LPG cylinders, made of steel, withstand higher pressures, unlike butane canisters. This misuse could lead to explosions, posing a danger to the public.
Wanchai Phanomchai, Secretary-General of the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI), stated that the voluntary standard for non-refillable butane gas canisters, TISI 4449-2568, is set to be published in the Royal Gazette by next month. This measure aims to enhance public safety, especially given the widespread use of gas canisters in restaurants and outdoor activities.
The canisters are designed for single use and cannot be refilled, particularly with LPG, as it produces higher pressure than butane gas, potentially causing canisters to explode. The new standard includes pressure deformation tests and explosion prevention features such as pressure relief systems and temperature-sensitive valves that release pressure automatically to prevent explosions, KhaoSod reported.
Additionally, the standard mandates warning labels advising against exposure to flames and sunlight, prohibiting refilling, and following the manufacturer’s installation recommendations. Gas canisters should not be stored in hot environments for extended periods to avoid deterioration. TISI is in the process of presenting this proposal to its board to expedite the classification of gas canisters as a controlled product.
In similar news, a police officer died following a bomb explosion in Narathiwat province while investigating a recent double murder.
The incident occurred at 1.30pm on May 4 in Chang Phueak subdistrict, Chanae district, as officers from the Narathiwat Provincial Police were collecting CCTV footage from a lamppost.
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