Beware of illegal refilling

The Citizen

11-05-2025

However, to save additional money, some individuals may unwittingly buy unsafe, illegally filled LPG cylinders.
'If an unauthorised party/person fills the branded cylinder of a legitimate company, instead of the owner of the branded cylinder themselves, or an approved distributor, then it is considered illegally filled,' explains Nomkhosi Makhathini of Easigas.
'The South African National Standard, SANS 10019, requires that all LPG cylinders must be handled and filled by competent and authorised persons, and illegal refillers are usually not adequately trained on how to handle LPG.'
Makhathini outlines the dangers of buying an illegally refilled cylinder:
* Illegal refillers take no liability for accidents.
* They do not check theintegrity of cylinders beforefilling them, which couldresult in leaks.
* Illegally refilled cylinders are not maintained.
* Cylinders filled illegally are often under-filled and sometimes filled with ill-suited substances to increase the weight artificially, meaning
consumers will pay more per kilogram of gas. This not only shortchanges buyers but also results in LPG that burns inefficiently, making it more expensive in the long run.
* Cylinders can also be overfilled and pose a major threat to the public.
* Dealers who buy illegally filled cylinders are breaking the law.
* These cylinders could leak or rupture at home with devastating consequences for the public.
Six tips to identify illegally filled cylinders:
* Examine the seal:
Every cylinder should be sealed with a plastic wrap featuring the gas supplier's official branding and a serial number verifying where it was filled.
* The seal's branding should match the logo printed on the cylinder.
* Check the last recertification date: This information is found on the neck ring and should be less than 15 years old to ensure the cylinder
remains safe for use.
* Look for dents: A cylinder should have a symmetrical shape without any distortions or visible damage, as dents may compromise its integrity.
* Inspect the foot ring: A dented foot ring would not pass a legitimate LPG supplier's safety standards, as it could indicate structural weakness.
* Assess the physical condition: Be wary of signs of corrosion, burns, bulges, or any illegal repairs or modifications. These could suggest exposure to unsafe conditions or inadequate maintenance.
* Perform a leak test:
Apply soapy water around the valve. If bubbles form, there is a gas leak, and the cylinder should not be used.
'Consumers hold the key to addressing illegal refilling through their purchasing decisions.
By making informed choices, they can protect themselves and their families from harm while supporting a regulated industry that upholds strict safety and quality standards,' she concludes.
Should you suspect your cylinder has been illegally refilled, report it to SAPS or the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association of South Africa (LPGSA).
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