Safety risk of industrial liquefied petroleum gas installations of the hotel segment in Sri Lanka

Abstract

The increasing use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in homes and businesses is attributed to its effectiveness, affordability, and eco-friendliness compared to other fuels, despite the potential fire and explosion hazards. When handling this highly flammable gas, it is crucial to implement specific control measures based on its application. Numerous incidents related to LPG are frequently reported in the industry due to issues associated with handling and technical aspects. The use of industrially liquefied petroleum gas (ILPG) in hotel kitchens has become a critical concern due to several safety incidents. This research established 88 risks causing factors under 12 main categories. Bibliometric analysis and focus group interviews were carried out to establish those factors. Further, a questionnaire survey was conducted to assess risk levels contributed by those risk factors to ILPG safety in the hotel segment in Sri Lanka. Findings show that exposed electrical parts, flammable gas contact with electrical circuits, capacity of cylinder stacking, hazardous electrical equipment’s without installation, explosionproof mechanical installations, provision of ventilation, faulty wiring, emergency procedures, compliance with the design code and availability of fire extinguishers are the most vulnerable risks related to ILPG installations in hotel segments. The findings of this research would allow safety practitioners and policymakers to provide preventive measures to enhance the safety of ILPG operations.