Public Alert: Understanding LPG Cylinder Expiration And Safety Standards In Nigeria

Public Alert: Understanding LPG Cylinder Expiration And Safety Standards In Nigeria

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has issued a public alert to clarify misinformation about the expiration dates of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Steel Cylinders circulating on social media. This alert aims to guide Nigerians on how to correctly determine the lifespan of LPG cylinders in line with the Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS 69:2013) and ensure public safety in the use of cooking gas.

 

Misconception About LPG Cylinder Expiration

Recent posts on social media have suggested that LPG cylinder expiration dates are designated quarterly using alphabets and years. SON has debunked this claim, stating that this method is not applicable in Nigeria.

 

In Nigeria, the lifespan of LPG steel cylinders is determined by the year of manufacture and the 15-year lifespan requirement set by NIS 69:2013.

 

Key Guidelines from SON on LPG Cylinder Safety

According to the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, the public should be aware of the following guidelines regarding LPG Steel Cylinders:

 

Lifespan of LPG Cylinders:

 

The life span of LPG cylinders in Nigeria is 15 years from the year of manufacture.

Markings on LPG Cylinders:

Every LPG cylinder must carry the following mandatory markings:

 

Manufacturer’s brand name

Country of origin

Test pressure

Tare weight (the weight of the empty cylinder)

SON Product registration number with the prefix FA (for imported cylinders)

MANCAP logo and number (for locally manufactured cylinders)

Year of manufacture

These markings can typically be found on the shroud (handle) or foot ring (base) of the cylinder.

 

Requalification Every 5 Years:

All LPG cylinders in Nigeria must undergo requalification every five years from the date of manufacture to ensure they remain safe for use.

How to Calculate the Expiration Date of Your LPG Cylinder

The formula to determine your LPG cylinder's expiration date is straightforward:

 

Expiration Date = Year of Manufacture + 15 Years

 

Example:

If the year of manufacture embossed on your cylinder is 2006, the expiration date will be:

2006 + 15 = 2021

 

After the expiration date, the cylinder must be withdrawn from circulation and recycled to avoid safety risks.

 

Minimum Marking Requirements to Look For When Buying LPG Cylinders

When purchasing an LPG cylinder, ensure that it has the following minimum markings:

 

✅ Manufacturer’s brand name

✅ Country of origin

✅ Tare weight

✅ Test pressure

✅ SON Product registration number (for imported cylinders)

✅ MANCAP logo and number (for locally made cylinders)

✅ Year of manufacture

 

These markings are mandatory and serve as proof that the cylinder meets Nigerian safety standards.

 

Why Cylinder Expiration Matters

Expired LPG cylinders are a serious safety risk. As gas cylinders age, they become more prone to leaks, cracks, and explosions due to wear and tear. Using a cylinder beyond its lifespan can lead to hazardous situations that endanger lives and property.

 

To ensure safety in your home or business, always check the manufacture date and ensure your cylinder is within the 15-year lifespan. If your cylinder is nearing expiration, replace it promptly to avoid accidents.

 

SON’s Commitment to Public Safety

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria is committed to improving life through standards and ensuring that Nigerians use safe and compliant LPG cylinders. By following the NIS 69:2013 guidelines, consumers can protect themselves from potential gas-related accidents.

• Lpg
• gas
• oil and gas
• gas cylinders
• Son
• Nigeria
• Cylinder expiration