COMMON QUESTIONS & TIPS:
WHAT IS PROPANE?
Propane itself is an odorless, colorless gas that becomes liquid under pressure. For typical residential use, tanks and cylinders contain both liquid and gas (vapor). As the vapor is fed into a piping system, some liquid boils, changes to vapor to keep the pipes pressurized. Since propane is flammable, a product called Ethyl Mercaptan which has a revolting, almost nauseating stench, is added to propane to provide an alert that propane is present in the atmosphere.
THE ODOR OF PROPANE AND ODOR FADE
Be aware that with odorized product the intensity of ethyl mercaptan stench may fade due to chemical oxidation (in the presence of rust, air or moisture), adsorption or absorption. Some people have nasal perception problems and may not be able to smell the ethyl mercaptan stench. Other odors may mask or hide the ethyl mercaptan stench. While ethyl mercaptan may not impart the warning of the presence of propane in every instance, it is generally effective in a majority of situations. Familiarize yourself, and occupants and guests to your home, with this warning, and other facts associated with the so-called "odor-fade phenomenon." If you do not already know all the facts, you may write the Phillips66 Company and ask for more information about odor and the other safety considerations associated with the handling, storage and use of propane; including the Material Data Safety Sheet - SDS.
Phillips66 Company SDS Information
PO Box 4428
Houston, TX 77210
Emergency Health and Safety Number –Chemtrec: 800.424.9300 (24 hours)
SMELLING PROPANE
If you smell propane, we must advise you to get out of the house without making a spark. Turn the gas off at the tank and call your propane supplier from a neighbor’s phone or another phone away from the house. Await the arrival of a technician who will attempt to determine the source of the leak and develop a course of corrective action.
The following links, will provide you with additional helpful information.
