WIN!!! The CPA has a new equivalency! 

Ten years of conversations with Transport Canada concerning challenges to transporting methanol-prepared propane containers have finally yielded positive results. TC has provided an equivalency allowing prepped containers that contain allowable amounts of methanol according to code to be considered empty. This allows prepped containers to be shipped with propane containers without being considered as a mixed dangerous goods load.  

This new equivalency is available on the CPA website. All requirements under the equivalency must be followed to ensure it is acceptably used in the manner TC intended. 

WIN!!! TSSA agrees to reduce underground tank permitting burden

Underground tank processes will now switch back to being installed according to the code and manufacturer’s instructions as per the next edition of B149.2. This is a departure from the current code requirements that specify AHJ approval. In recognition of this change, Ontario’s Technical Standards and Safety Authority has relaxed its requirements to reduce the burden on industry until the code takes effect. Although a variance permit will still be required, the industry will not be subject to variance fees or inspection requirements for this installation. 

The advisory for the new process can be found here.  

Opportunity to voice your concerns to Transport Canada’s proposed changes to Railway Safety Act 

Bill C-33 is currently going through the House of Commons. You have an opportunity to have your say by either submitting a brief of any concerns you may have or by requesting to be a witness during the process. 

The presentation from TC can be found here. You can submit a brief or request to be a witness by linking to: Guide for submitting briefs to House of Commons Committees – ProceduralInfo – House of Commons of Canada (ourcommons.ca) or  C-33 (44-1) – LEGISinfo – Parliament of Canada. 

Codes under public review 

The next edition draft of CSA B149.5 – Installation code for propane fuel systems and containers on motor vehicles is currently open for Public Review until November 20, 2023. Link to the CSA Public Review site. Comments and proposals must be submitted directly within the CSA Public Review systems; remember to provide a rationale for the proposed change. 

BC: Safety Regulation amendments and adopted Code revisions 

British Columbia has made important regulatory changes for stationary engines (generators). Effective Oct 1, 2023, the equipment must bear a certification mark recognized by Technical Safety BC. 

The amendments are specified in Appendix 2 of the Ministerial Order M 191 and affect Section 3 of the Gas Safety Regulation regarding the exemption for internal combustion engines, turbines, and prime movers. This exemption will now exclusively apply only to stationary engines, turbines, and prime movers that have been approved under the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. If you have any questions or concerns about these upcoming regulatory changes and how they may affect your operations, please do not hesitate to contact TSBC. 

SK: Reminder – Deadline approaching for PRV replacement in tanks 

The deadline of May 2024 for PRV replacement in tanks is fast approaching – ensure you are compliant and up to date. For more information visit the Technical Safety Authority of Saskatchewan website. 

TSASK would also like to remind members that it is acceptable to install a temporary line from the tank to the installation during periods when the ground is frozen. However, these temporary lines are expected to be replaced with permanent buried lines in the following spring by May of each year. 

ON: Your questions answered on hose testing

1. Who can conduct a hose test in Ontario? According to the requirements in O Reg 215/01, only a gas technician who has an LP certificate can conduct hose testing. 
2. What is the required test pressure during a hose test? Hose testing pressures vary depending on what the hose is used for. CSA Certified hoses used for propane are tested to 350psi as indicated in B620 7.2.10.5(b)(i). 
3. What are the tag marking requirements? Hose test markings require the month and year of the test and inspection. Markings must be able to endure the activities of daily use, stamped on a fitting end or an attached tag or metal washer, marked at least 5mm high, and the stamping cannot degrade the pressure-rated hose. 
4. What report is required? Recording requirements to document the test and inspection and the timeline for retention of testing documents can be found in B620 7.3. 

The Propane Training Institute (PTI) offers the training course: 100-07 Propane Hose Inspection and Testing. For more information about PTI’s training programs, visit the website, email: training@propane.ca , or call: 877-784-4636.