The 2001 NFPA 58 Standard for Liquefied Petroleum Gases outlines safety measures and regulatory standards for the handling, transportation, and storage of LP-Gas. It specifies codes for various systems and components including containers, pipelines, and associated equipment. The code applies to systems delivering LP-Gas to buildings as fuel, highway transportation, marine terminals not associated with refineries, and pipeline terminals.
This standard exempts certain systems like those used in natural gas processing plants, petrochemical plants, and those already covered by other specific NFPA standards. It emphasizes the importance of equipment and systems meeting approval requirements as outlined in its tables, ensuring they comply with the safety standards set forth.
The code mandates that all LP-Gas be odorized unless it interferes with its use or effectiveness as a warning agent. Additionally, it addresses the qualifications for personnel handling LP-Gas, ensuring they are properly trained and their training is regularly updated.
For systems that pre-date the standard, the code does not require compliance unless specified. However, if an authority deems an existing system as hazardous, they may enforce retroactive compliance to mitigate risks.
Overall, NFPA 58 aims to ensure that all aspects of LP-Gas usage, from storage to transportation, are conducted safely, minimizing risks to personnel, the public, and the environment. It allows for the use of equivalent or superior systems and methods, provided they are approved by the authority having jurisdiction, ensuring flexibility in compliance while maintaining safety standards.
