New Overflow Protection Device Required On Propane Tanks by April 1

With grilling season right around the corner, now may be the time to get your propane cylinder refilled. Beginning April 1, 2002, all propane cylinders holding 4 to 40 pounds must be equipped with an overflow protection device (OPD), or the cylinder cannot be refilled. Concerns surrounding overfilled tanks rupturing prompted the change, which is supported by the National Fire Protection Association and the Consumer Protection Agency.

All tanks manufactured after October 1998 are fitted with the device. If you own a cylinder that was manufactured prior to October 1998, you may want to get it refilled before April 1. These cylinders can also be refitted with the device, but it may be more cost effective to purchase a new cylinder.

It is easy to tell if a cylinder has the device just by looking at it. On a cylinder without the device, the handwheel is is round, whereas a cylinder with the device has a handwheel that is triangular in shape and will have an OPD stamp.

Cylinder Without OPD

Cylinder With OPD

If you decide to purchase new tanks, contact your local hazardous waste facility for instructions on how to dispose of the old cylinders.

By Robyn M. Harper, a married WAHM of two, owner of RMH Web Design, and partner of Mom To Mom Chat.com. Contact Robyn anytime at robyn@momtomomchat.com.