What do we see on the risk map?
All LPG stations are shown on the risk map. LPG is a gas that is used, among other things, as a fuel for cars. LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas) is a gas converted into a liquid under high pressure. At LPG stations, the gas is contained in above or below-ground tanks. The most important source risks at an LPG station are the above-ground storage tanks and when LPG is delivered by a tanker.
What is the risk?
LPG is flammable and explosive. If there is a leak in a pipe or storage container that results in an LPG gas cloud, the risk of an explosion is considerable because LPG is extremely flammable. The gas is heavier than air, so that it hangs just above the surface or permeates lower spaces such as cellars or sewers.
An explosion results in a pressure wave and a large fireball. If you are within a radius of 500 metres, you risk death, serious burns or other injuries, including those caused by flying debris.
What can you do yourself?
If you are near to the accident:
- do not go to the accident location;
- call 1-1-2 if this has not yet been done;
- ensure that you are at least 500 metres from the scene of the accident;
- ensure that children and people who need help to flee leave the scene leave the danger zone as soon as possible.
- If you cannot leave the danger zone or if you are further away than 500 metres:
- do not go and look;
- shelter in a safe place where you are not at risk from flying glass; in a building, such places may include a shower or toilet, the attic or behind a cupboard; if you are outside, shelter behind a wall or building;
- ensure that children and people who need help to flee are sheltered as soon as possible;
- tune in to the disaster broadcasting station if possible;
- follow the instructions of the emergency services (police or fire brigade); they will warn you using sirens, sound trucks, SMS alerts or the disaster broadcasting station; in the case of LPG, that may mean opening your windows and doors and closing shutters and blinds so that you are at less risk to injury from flying glass.
If you have to leave your home, you will be given instructions by the police.
What safety measures are there?
The government imposes safety requirements (including permits) on the transport, delivery and storage of LPG. For instance, LPG stations have to be at a certain distance from houses. The companies involved are responsible for safety on site. The government checks whether the requirements imposed are being complied with. Furthermore, the emergency services practice responding to accidents involving LPG.
In the case of an explosion or risk of such, the emergency services (police, fire brigade and ambulances) impose a safety limit of at least 500 metres, until they know exactly what is going on. They cordon the area off and try to prevent an explosion.
More information
Information about veiligheidsmaatregelen [safety measures] relating to LPG can be found on the website of the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment.