DGUV V 79 defines the regulations for handling LPG in stalls at Christmas markets. Among other things, the policy makes reference to pressure regulators/pressure reducers as well as hose assemblies, excess flow devices and replacement periods.
Throughout Germany, from the end of November, Christmas markets open their gates and people start looking forward to warming drinks and festive dishes. To provide visitors with plenty of delicious treats, many stallholders make use of LPG, i.e. propane and butane, to supply their gas barbecue, gas stove and radiant heater.
Due to a lack of technical knowledge, many hospitality businesses use insufficient components in the LPG system or do not use safety-relevant fittings because they simply do not know the regulations, or have not been made aware of them. However: What regulations now apply to operators of stalls and snack bars at Christmas markets?
If you use an LPG system for commercial purposes, regulation 110-010 of the German Accident Insurance Act (DGUV 110-010) applies. At the end of the article, you will find helpful links to the rules and regulations mentioned. DGUV 110-010 requires the use of pressure regulators either with the safety devices OPSO (SAV) and PRV respectively UPSO or with over-pressure safety device S2SR.
Pressure regulator type FL90-4 with OPSO and PRV (left) and type EN61-DS with S2SR (right).
The S2SR is only integrated with fittings with an output of up to a maximum of 1.5 kilograms of LPG per hour. You can either connect these pressure regulators directly to the gas cylinder or use them in a multiple cylinder system. The same applies to many pressure regulators with OPSO (SAV) and PRV, for example type FL 90-4 for the cylinder and as a pressure regulator in a cylinder system. They usually have a maximum output level of 4 kilograms of LPG per hour.
You are allowed to operate up to two 5 or 11-kilogram cylinders in a stall, hut or kiosk. Nominally, it is not forbidden to also operate a 33-kilogram cylinder indoors – but by no means in combination with a smaller cylinder. However, it is difficult to operate a 33-kilogram cylinder indoors for two reasons:
For the above reasons, we recommend that you install the 33-kilogram cylinder outdoors. If you plan a system consisting of several 33-kilogram cylinders, it will have to go outside anyway.
As in many other areas, excess flow devices are also required at Christmas markets as soon as the hose assembly is longer than 40 centimetres. Further details can be found in paragraph 10 of DGUV 110-010.
For example, if you use outdoor heaters or radiant heaters for yourself and/or your guests, you must ensure that a gas anti-tilt device (image) is installed. This blocks the gas supply when the device tips over and automatically releases it again once it has been righted.
A device according to DIN EN 14543 must be fitted ex works with anti-tilt protection. If you have not yet installed an anti-tilt device, however, retrofitting is relatively simple. Simply loosen the hose assembly from the pressure regulator and screw in the anti-tilt device between them.
It is necessary to have system components such as a pressure regulator, hose assembly, excess flow device and shut-off device replaced eight years after the date of manufacture at the latest. The components may also remain in a system for longer if a qualified person (expert) confirms the proper condition of the system.
This article is only an extract of the regulations which must be complied with by the operator. We recommend always contracting a specialist for repair work, maintenance and conversion, who can give you exact advice on site.
Please observe the requirements of DGUV regulation 110-010 and DGUV principle 310-005 for maintenance and inspection.
This blog will never ask members of the public or unqualified persons to make changes to or fiddle around with technical systems themselves.
In accordance with the Industrial Safety Regulation (BetrSichV), a qualified person must take care of a system which requires monitoring.
A qualified person is someone who has the specific specialist knowledge required. This knowledge is gained by way of a professional apprenticeship, corresponding professional experience or current occupational activity.
Please note that the texts are based on information, regulations and standards for Germany. Please always check the rules and regulations in the relevant country of destination and consult specialists if necessary.
