What Kind of Label Goes on a Propane Tank?

Propane gas is considered a hazardous material. This colorless, odorless gas is flammable, and it can cause certain health complications such as eye and respiratory tract irritation and, in severe cases, asphyxiation. If you sell propane, your company is responsible for propane labels and ensuring that the tanks or cylinders are labeled appropriately to reflect that risk.

Industry Standards

There are two sets of industry standards that govern propane storage tanks. Stationary tanks must comply with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) standards. Portable tanks or those transported before or following a sale must also follow the marking regulations set out by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

Bay Tech Label carries all the propane labels your company needs to ensure compliance with marking requirements, regardless of what type of tanks you use.

Requirements for Portable Cylinders

Portable propane cylinders are smaller than full-sized propane tanks. They’re most often used to power things like barbecue grills and other outdoor appliances. Filling requirements vary based on the type of cylinder in use, but the marking conditions are the same regardless of their size and shape.

The DOT regulates propane cylinder markings, so your cylinders’ labels must match this agency’s standards and includes the following:

  • A red diamond
  • The phrase “flammable gas.”
  • The official symbol that indicates flammability
  • The number “2” to indicate propane’s hazardous material classification

In addition to DOT regulations, some local jurisdictions also require companies that sell or transport propane to comply with the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) code. This code requires vendors to add propane’s hazardous material identification number, “1075,” to the label and the words “liquified petroleum gas.” Since many jurisdictions require NFPA compliance, it’s best to include this information on all of your company’s labels.

The portable propane cylinders manufactured for consumer use also feature a few other markings. Manufacturers stamp them with the letters “WC,” short for water capacity, followed by the liquid weight of water the tank could hold, and “TW,” short for tare weight, followed by the empty weight of the cylinder. Unless you manufacture propane cylinders, you’ll likely only encounter these stamps upon refilling portable cylinders.

Portable Tank Requalification

There are several methods for requalifying portable DOT cylinders. After requalification, which is mandated every five, seven, or twelve years depending on what method vendors choose, the tank must be marked. This marking must be permanent, meaning it should be stamped on or engraved.

The permanent marking must include some additional information. You’ll need to stamp or engrave the month and year of requalification, the method used to perform the requalification, and the identification number. The DOT also stipulates four patterns you can choose from to prevent tampering and misuse.

Bulk Storage Tanks

Propane used in residential and commercial applications is usually stored in stationary bulk tanks with tamper proof stickers, often referred to as ASME containers. These containers must be labeled appropriately per Section VIII of the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. That means placing a metal data place on the tank with a specific set of information that includes:

  • The tank’s serial number
  • It’s holding capacity
  • The maximum vapor pressure allowed
  • The dimensions of the tank
  • The tank manufacturer’s company name and address
  • Whether the tank was designed for in-ground or above-ground use

These tanks must also be clearly labeled during transport. The markings are similar to those used for portable tanks, with one exception. Instead of a “2 inches” your labels will need to have a “2.1” to indicate the hazard class division.

Vehicle-mounted ASME tanks must also feature black diamond decals with the word “PROPANE” written in white letters. You can put the decal near the access panel door, on the fender skirt, or the truck near the lower right side above the bumper. If you plan to transport the tanks inside an enclosed vehicle, the vehicle itself must be outfitted with a placard that meets DOT regulations.

Get Your Propane Labels at Bay Tech Label

If you’re looking for propane labels, Bay Tech Label has you covered. We sell custom flammable gas 2 stickers that feature your company’s logo, name, and phone number along with the required warnings. Simply get in touch with us online or call (800) 229-8321 for unrivaled customer service.

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