CODE OF PRACTICE

FOR
HONG KONG LPG INDUSTRY

Module 2
Underground LPG Pipework

Issue 1

May 2003

Module 2 LPG Underground Pipework

Contents
Page
PREFACE
SECTION 1

INTERPRETATION OF TERMS

SECTION 2

OBJECTIVES & SCOPE

Objectives
Scope
Regulations and References

3
3
3

2.1
2.2
2.3

SECTION 3
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.4
3.5
3.5.1
3.5.2
3.5.3
3.6
3.7
3.7.1
3.7.2
3.7.3
3.8

General Requirements
Sizing and Routing
Materials and Jointing
Steel Pipe and Fittings
Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings
Depth of Cover
Extra Protection
General
Pipe-in-Pipe System
Protective Plate/Slab
Sleeving
Corrosion Protection
General
Coating and Wrapping
Cathodic Protection
Ground Settlement

SECTION 4
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5

DESIGN

7
8
9
9
9
11
11
11
11
11
12
13
13
13
14
14

INSTALLATION

General
Coating & Wrapping
Trench Work
Pipe Identification
Records and Drawings

SECTION 5

INSPECTION, TESTING & COMMISSIONING

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

16
16
17
18
19
19
21

5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4

General
Cathodic Protection System
Purging into Service
Purging out of Service

SECTION 6
6.1
6.2
6.3

OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

29

General
Inspection and Testing
Pipework Abandonment

SECTION 7
7.1
7.2
7.3

21
24
24
27

29
31
32

GAS LEAKAGE SURVEY

33

General
Follow-up Actions (if leakage is detected)
Leakage Survey Records

33
33
34

APPENDICES
A

Relevant Sections in Relation to the Gas Safety (Gas Supply) Regulations

Acceptance Criteria for Listed Competent Person Under Gas Safety

Ordinance, Cap.51

C1
C2

Typical Design for Pipe-in-pipe arrangement and Valve Pit under carriageway
Depth of cover & extra mechanical protection requirements for underground
LPG pipe

Guidance Notes For Laying of Underground LPG Pipes Along or Across

Public Roads - Gas Safety (Gas Supply) Regulation 17 (4)

Typical Sleeving arrangement for LPG pipe

Typical Sample of LPG Underground Pipework Pressure Test Report

G1
G2

Typical Sample of Maintenance Record of Underground Pipework

Typical Sample of LPG Underground Pipework Revalidation Test Report

Typical Sample of Gas Leakage Report Record

Typical Example of Settlement Loop Connection

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

ii

PREFACE
This document is the second in a series of modules as the Code of Practice for the LPG
industry in Hong Kong. The other 7 modules are:
Module 1 LPG Compounds and Cylinder Stores
Module 3 Handling and Transport of LPG in Bulk by Road
Module 4 Aboveground Distribution Pipes, Service Risers, Downers and Ring Mains
Module 5 Domestic Installations
Module 6 Non-Domestic Installations
Module 7 Operating Procedures for Emergencies for LPG Compounds and Pipedcylinder Stores
Module 8 Operating Procedures for Emergencies for Installations outside LPG
Compound/Stores.
Module 2 lays down recommended practice for the design, installation, operation and
maintenance of underground pipework carrying LPG, at medium or low pressure, from
LPG storage installations to users (see Module 1). It encompasses the pipe, fittings and
associated work. This Module shall be read in conjunction with the Gas Safety
Ordinance (Cap. 51) and subsidiary regulations (See Appendix A for reference).
The basis for development of this document is the Standard Practice Manuals prepared
by Congas (Volume 1 & 2), the Code of Practice by the LP Gas Association in U.K. and
the safety requirements issued by the Gas Standards Office. Comments from the Gas
Standards Office, the latest thinking of the industry and other recognized national
standards have also been reviewed in updating the requirements.
The manual has been prepared jointly by the Gas Standards Office and the LPG Safety
and Technical Committee represented by the registered gas supply companies in Hong
Kong LPG Industry.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

iii

While this Module tends to be specific in important aspects affecting safety and
reliability, it shall be seen as offering guidance to engineers, operators and other users
who will continue to exercise judgement and skill in the fulfillment of their obligations. It
shall be borne in mind that practice may need changes with emerging technology and
experience. The requirements listed in this document shall not be regarded as a set of
rigid guidelines that cannot be changed. It is expected that the document will be
reviewed and updated as required.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

iv

SECTION 1 INTERPRETATION OF TERMS

Casing Pipe A pipe which protects an enclosed LPG pipe from external mechanical
loading.
Listed Competent Person - A person who meets the acceptance criteria as listed in
Appendix B and, upon application to Gas Standards Office, is assessed as fully
competent to inspect/certify LPG installation, testing and maintenance work.
Competent person - A person who is competent by virtue of his/her training and
substantial practical experience to perform/supervise/inspect LPG installation, testing
and maintenance work.
Gas Authority - The authority appointed under Section 5 of the Gas Safety Ordinance
(Cap. 51).
Gas Main - Gas main as defined under the Gas Safety Ordinance (Cap.51).
Gas Standards Office (GasSO) - An office within government which is under the
control of the Gas Authority to administer the Gas Safety Ordinance.
Heat-fusion - A technique using a combination of temperature and force to cause two
melting surfaces to flow together to produce a joint. Homogenous fusion bonding
occurs when the joint cools below the fusion temperature.
Hot work - Welding or the use of any flame or electric arc or the use of any equipment
likely to cause heat, flame or spark. It also includes caulking, chipping, drilling, rivetting
and any other heat producing operation, unless it is carried out in such a way to keep
the temperature of the tools and the work below 100oC.
Installation pipe -Installation pipe as defined under the Gas Safety Ordinance
(Cap.51).
LPG - Liquefied petroleum gas as defined under the Gas Safety Ordinance (Cap. 51).

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

LPG pressure, High

- A pressure of more than 700 kpa

Intermediate - A pressure of more than 240 kpa but not more than
700 kpa
Medium
- A pressure of more than 7.5 kPa but not more than
240 kPa
Low
- A pressure of not more than 7.5 kPa
Major Gas Emergency major gas emergency as defined under the Gas Safety
(Registration of Gas Supply Companies) Regulations (Cap.51).
Medium Density Polyethylene Pipe (MDPE) - PE pipe made of medium density (0.926
to 0.940 g/cm3) polyethylene plastics moulding and extrusion materials.
Polyethylene - A polymer, a type of plastic material, that is prepared by the
polymerization of ethylene as the primary monomer, with comonomers such as butene
or hexene.
Polyethylene (PE) pipe - Pipe made of polyethylene plastics moulding and extrusion
materials.
Public Road - The road as defined in Road Traffic Ordinance (Cap. 374)
Purging - Replacing the content in a system by a different medium before putting the
system into or out of service.
Redundant pipework - Pipework that is not needed for receiving or supplying LPG.
Saddle fusion - A heat-fusion technique of joining PE pipe by melting the base of the
saddle fitting while simultaneously melting a matching pattern on the surface of the pipe,
joining these two molten surfaces together, and allowing the joint to cool.
Slit defect - Defects in PE butt fusion joints with separation caused by lack of fusion as
can be seen from the surface as a slit at the interface.
Squeeze-off - A procedure to stop the flow of gas in PE pipe by compressing the pipe
until the flow of gas inside stops. This is normally used for the purposes of downstream
repair and maintenance.
Standard Dimensional Ratio (SDR) - A ratio of the specified outside diameter over the
specified minimum wall thickness of PE pipe
Transition fitting - A fitting connecting PE pipe to metallic pipe.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

SECTION 2 OBJECTIVES & SCOPE

2.1

Objectives

2.1.1

This Module has been prepared as a general outline of basic safety standards
to be followed by registered gas supply companies, registered gas
contractors or owners of NGIs so as to ensure, in carrying on their business,
the health and safety at work of their employees and to conduct their
operations in a safe manner so that members of the public are not exposed to
undue risks from gas.

2.2

Scope

2.2.1

This Module covers the design, installation, operation and maintenance of

underground pipework carrying LPG, normally at medium or low pressure,
from LPG compounds or cylinder stores to buildings (see Module 1). It
encompasses the pipe, fittings and associated work.

2.2.2

The design and installation requirements in this Module shall, unless specified
otherwise, apply to new underground pipework and does not apply to
replacement of existing pipework. The operation and maintenance shall apply
to all new and existing pipework.
Note: SI units shall be used for new pipework. Other units are also permitted
with SI unit in brackets.

2.3

Regulations and References

2.3.1

All underground pipework shall comply with statutory safety requirements.

Particular reference shall be made to:
The Gas Safety Ordinance (Cap. 51)
The Gas Safety (Gas Quality) Regulations (Cap. 51)
The Gas Safety (Gas Supply) Regulations (Cap. 51)
The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations (Cap. 51)
The Gas Safety (Registration of Gas Supply Companies) Regulations (Cap.
51)
The Gas Safety (Miscellaneous) Regulations (Cap. 51)

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

The Gas Safety (Registration of Gas Supply Companies) Regulations

(Cap.51)
The Road Traffic Ordinance (Cap. 374)
Code of Practice - Avoiding danger from gas pipes (published by GasSO)

2.3.2

This Module makes reference to the following publications (latest editions of

these publications shall be used as far as possible):
API - American Petroleum Institute
API 5L, Specification for Line Pipe
ANSI - American National Standards Institute
B16.5, Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings NPS 1/2 through NPS 24
B16.11, Forged Fittings, Socket-Welding and Threaded
B36.10M, Welded and Seamless Wrought Steel Pipe
ASTM - American Society for Testing and Materials
A 47, Standard Specification for Ferritic Malleable Iron Castings
A 53, Standard Specification for Pipe, Steel, Black and Hot-Dipped, ZincCoated Welded and Seamless
A 193, Standard Specification for Alloy-Steel and Stainless Steel Bolting
Materials for High-Temperature Service
A 194, Standard Specification for Carbon and Alloy-Steel Nuts for Bolts for
High-Pressure and High-Temperature Service, or Both
A 395, Standard Specification for Ferritic Ductile Iron Pressure-Retaining
Castings for Use at Elevated Temperatures
BSI - British Standards Institute
BS 21, Pipe threads for tubes and fittings where pressure-tight joints are
made on the threads

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

BS 1387, Specification for Screwed and Socketed Steel tubes and tubulars
and for plain end steel tubes suitable for welding or for screwing to BS 21
pipe threads
BS 1560, Circular pipe flanges for valves and fittings for the petroleum
industry(for steel)
BS 1600, Specification for Dimensions of steel pipe for the petroleum industry
BS 1965, Specification for Butt-welding pipe fittings for pressure purposes
BS 3799, Specification for Steel pipe fittings, screwed and socket welding for
the petroleum industry
BS 4882, Specification for Bolting for flanges and pressure containing
purposes
BS 7281, Specification for polyethylene pipes for the supply of gaseous fuels
BS 7336, Specification for polyethylene fusion fittings with integral heating
element(s) for use with polyethylene pipes for the conveyance of gaseous
fuels
BS 7361, Specification for Cathodic Protection Part 1. Code of Practice for
land and marine applications
CGA -Canadian Gas Association
CAN/CGA B149.2, Propane Installation Code
OCC-1-85, Recommended Practice for the control of external corrosion on
buried or submerged metallic piping systems
LPGA Liqufied Petroleum Gas Association, UK (formerly LPGITALiquefied Petroleum Gas Industry Technical Association)
No.22, LPG piping system - design and installation
NACE - National Association of Corrosion Engineers
RP-01-69, Control of External Corrosion on Underground or Submerged
Metallic Piping Systems

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

NFPA - National Fire Protection Association

NFPA 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code
IGEM Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers
IGE/TD/3, Distribution Mains, Recommendations on Transmission and
distribution Practice

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

SECTION 3 DESIGN
3.1

General Requirements
Note: A typical design of underground LPG pipe with adequate cover is
shown in Appendix C2.

3.1.1

Pipework shall be installed at location free from abnormal mechanical loading.

Where such adverse factors exist, the pipe shall be protected (in compliance
with Gas Safety (Gas Supply) Regulation 17 (5)) by extra protection (see
Section 3.5) and/or corrosion protection (see Section 3.7) where appropriate.

3.1.2

Installation pipe shall not be laid under foundations of a building or under the
footings of a load bearing wall in compliance with the Gas Safety (Installation
and Use) Regulations 17(4).

3.1.3

Pipework shall not be installed through basements, sewers or similar

underground structures unless suitably protected by sleeving as shown in
Appendix E or other means accepted by the Gas Authority.

3.1.4

Underground pipe shall be designed to withstand anticipated loading during

service including internal pressure, external soil/traffic and buoyancy loading,
if applicable.

3.1.5

For piping material other than those specified in 3.3.1 and 3.3.2, design
working temperature shall cover the range of -10oC to 40oC.

3.1.6

Mains that are installed along or across public road shall comply with the
requirements of the Guidance Note for Laying of Underground LPG Pipes
Along or Across Public Roads - Gas Safety (Gas Supply) Regulation 17 (4) as
per Appendix D.

3.1.7

Valves shall be installed at the upstream of special obstacle/road crossings,

major branch-off, at maximum interval such that the volume being isolated
does not exceed the volume equivalent to 130 litres liquid LPG at its working
pressure along the pipe in built up area to provide sectioning; and at locations
to cater for known future development of the pipe system.

3.1.8

Pressure tap/purge point should be installed on long pipework, especially on

each side of a valve.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

3.1.9

Permanent anchorage shall be made on pipework above 100mm nominal

diameter and laid in a slope of 30 degree or above and operating at pressures
exceeding 75 mbar (1 psig). Ground anchor blocks may be used if additional
anchorage is required.

3.1.10

The number of joints in pipes should be kept to a minimum. Screw joints

below ground shall be avoided. An all welded or fused system is preferred.

3.2

Sizing and Routing

3.2.1

The size of pipework shall be selected after consideration of the expected

demand of gas supply, customer type, diversity of usage, available source
pressure, acceptable pressure drops and the required minimum terminal
pressure.

3.2.2

The routing shall be selected taking into account the possibility of physical
damage particularly from the loadings caused by vehicles or mobile
equipment.

3.2.3

The minimum separation distance between LPG pipes and any buildings
opening or pathway to low level shall be 1m, except for the connection to
riser.

3.2.4

Clearance from other known buried utilities (e.g. electrical cables) to the LPG
underground pipe shall be maintained at not less than 300 mm to allow for
access for maintenance where reasonably practicable.

3.2.5

The separation clearance as per Section 3.2.4 may be reduced for crossing
other utilities, subject to adequate protection being provided e.g. by pipe-inpipe system or by protective plate/slab (see Sections 3.5.2 & 3.5.3).

3.2.6

Route plans on 1:1000 or larger scale map should be used to design and
record the underground pipe routing.

3.2.7

For easy access in future, the pipe route should generally be located in
common ground, at the front of premises and parallel with other utility
services. Routes should be chosen that create minimal disturbance of madeup surfaces. LPG pipe should avoid being in same trench or in close proximity
with electric cables, water/drain pipes, fuel pipes and pipes containing other
flammables/chemicals to avoid being affected by them.

3.2.8

The routing of LPG pipes should avoid proximity to voids, pits, cellars and
unventilated spaces, where reasonably practicable.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

3.3

Materials and Jointing

3.3.1

Steel Pipe and Fittings

3.3.1.1

High and intermediate pressure LPG underground steel pipe shall be of

seamless steel conforming to BS3601 or ASTM A53 or A106 Schedule 80 or
equivalent. Medium pressure LPG underground steel pipe shall be of heavy
grade steel conforming to BS 1387 or equivalent. Low pressure pipework
shall be of medium or heavy grade steel conforming to BS1387 or equivalent.

3.3.1.2

Use of cast-iron pipe shall not be permitted.

3.3.1.3

Valves and fittings shall be suitable for maximum working pressure of the
piping system.

3.3.1.4

Steel flanges and flanged fittings shall conform to ASME B 16.5, BS 1560 or
equivalent and bolting conforming to ASTM A 193, ASTM A 194, BS 4882 or
equivalent.

3.3.1.5

Pipe to pipe joints above 50 mm shall be butt-welded or socket welded or

flanged.

3.3.1.6

Steel butt-welded fittings shall conform to BS1965 or equivalent. Steel socketwelded fittings shall conform to ANSI B16.11, BS 3799 or equivalent.

3.3.1.7

Welding of steel pipe should be performed by skilled operators certified by a

testing company.

3.3.1.8

Pipe joints up to and including 50 mm nominal diameter may be threaded.

Threaded pipes and fittings shall be of same form. Compression union shall
not be used.

3.3.1.9

Pressure containing metal parts of valves shall be steel, ductile (nodular) iron,
malleable iron, or brass. Ductile iron shall meet the requirements of ASTM A
395 or equivalent and malleable iron shall meet the requirements of ASTM A
47 or equivalent. All materials used, including valve seat discs, packing,
seals and diaphragms, shall be resistant to the action of LPG.

3.3.2

Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings

3.3.2.1

Polyethylene (PE) pipe shall be of medium density (MDPE) and shall comply
with BS 7281 or equivalent.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

3.3.2.2

PE pipe shall have a standard dimensional ratio of 17.6 or smaller.

3.3.2.3

PE material and pipe coatings are degraded by prolonged exposure to direct

sunlight and hence should be avoided. If storage for prolonged period is
required, the PE pipe should be covered with suitable opaque cover sheet.

3.3.2.4

PE pipe and fittings shall be joined by heat fusion, electrofusion, or

mechanical methods. Such joining methods shall be compatible with the
materials being joined.

3.3.2.5

PE electrofusion fittings shall conform to BS 7336 or equivalent.

3.3.2.6

Jointing shall be in accordance with manufacturers procedures and

instructions.

3.3.2.7

Fusion jointing should not be carried out within a distance of 1.5 times the
pipe diameter from location where squeeze-off has previously taken place.
The squeeze-off location shall be marked permanently on the pipe and
squeeze off shall not be repeated at the same location.

3.3.2.8

Joints in PE pipe shall be made with specially designed fusion tools and
ancillary equipment.

3.3.2.9

Mechanical joints can be used for PE when fusion methods are impracticable
or unsuitable, or for the transition from PE to metallic pipe.

3.3.2.10 For connecting PE pipe to steel flanged valves, properly designed flanged
transition fittings shall be used. For changing direction or sizes of PE pipe,
properly designed PE branched tees, reduced branch tees or reducers shall
be used where applicable.
3.3.2.11 For PE pipe installation, PE pipe shall connect to metal pipe at the point of
emerging from the ground. The transition fittings shall be located below
ground or the PE pipe shall emerge for a short distance before the transition
fitting provided that the aboveground section is suitably protected against
ultraviolet light and mechanical damage by steel, glass reinforced plastic,
housing enclosure or other equivalent sleeving.
3.3.2.12 Polyethylene gas pipe shall adopt a yellow or black external colour for easy
identification and differentiation from other underground utility facilities
commonly used in Hong Kong.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

10

3.3.2.13 Operators should be trained under a formal programme to cover the

execution of PE jointing procedures and should be examined before carrying
out such work and re-assessed periodically afterwards.
3.4

Depth of Cover

3.4.1

Unless extra protection as per section 3.5 is provided to overcome practical

difficulties, LPG pipes shall be laid at a minimum depth of 600 mm within
private property and under footpaths where there is no likelihood of traffic; or
1000 mm under carriageway measured from the road surface to the top of the
pipe.

3.5

Extra Protection

3.5.1

General

3.5.1.1

An LPG pipe that is laid without sufficient depth shall be protected with extra
protection such as pipe-in-pipe system, steel plate, concrete slab, or other
methods approved by GasSO.

3.5.2.

Pipe-in-Pipe System
Note: Typical design of pipe-in-pipe arrangement is shown in Appendix C

3.5.2.1

Casing pipe may be used to provide mechanical protection and/or facilitate

the replacement of LPG pipe in future. Casing pipe shall be suitably sized. It
shall be made of steel materials.

3.5.2.2

LPG pipe shall be held clear of the casing pipe by properly designed
insulators, supports or centering devices.

3.5.2.3

Casing pipe under carriageway shall be of sufficient length and strength so

as to minimize the external loading on the LPG pipe.

3.5.2.4

Valve pit for casing pipe should be located 1.5 m away from any building
opening.

3.5.3

Protective Plate/ Slab

3.5.3.1

Concrete slabs not less than 40 mm thick, or steel plates not less than 3 mm
thick at a height of 100 to 300 mm above the LPG pipe/casing pipe can be
used to protect it against damage.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

11

3.5.3.2

The LPG pipe shall be embedded in sand or soil and be compacted with
backfill materials firmly and evenly before making good the road surface.
Note: Extra-protection applicable are summarized in table below:

Depth
cover

of

Protection
in
nonpublic
road
Protection
in public
road

Under Pavement
less than 600 mm to
more
600 mm
less than
than
1000 mm 1000 mm
plate
or not
not
slab
or required
required
pipe-inpipe
pipe-inwith steel not
pipe with plate
or required
steel plate slab
or slab

Under carriageway
less than 600 mm to
more
600 mm
less than
than
1000 mm 1000 mm
pipe-inpipe-innot
pipe with pipe
required
plate or
slab
Not
pipe-inpipe-inallowed
pipe with pipe with
steel plate steel
or slab
plate or
slab

3.6

Sleeving

3.6.1

Where pipe passes through a solid wall (e.g. the wall of the valve pit,
basement or poorly ventilated area), the pipe shall be sleeved. Sleeve shall
extend to a minimum length of 20 mm beyond a wall. For pipe emerging from
underground to aboveground, pipe sleeve shall also extends aboveground to
a minimum length of 150mm beyond the transition.
Note: Typical design of a sleeving arrangement is shown in Appendix E.

3.6.2

For PE pipe, anti-shear sleeves of adequate length shall be used to protect

pipe up to and including 63 mm diameter against bending stresses, at:
a) PE pipe adjacent to PE/steel transition fittings and PE branch pipes;
b) service branch connections to metal pipes of 63 mm or greater; and
c) valves, to react against operating torques unless the valve is suitably
anchored.
Note: Sleeves are not required at electrofusion couplings due to the support
and reinforcement imparted by the heating wires and extended socket length.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

12

3.6.3

Sleeve shall be of a material which is continuous, non-porous and protected

against corrosion (e.g. polyethylene, galvanized steel or other suitable
materials).

3.6.4

Sleeve shall be filled at each end to the carrier pipe with a flexible water
resistant compound (e.g. mastic or silicone compound) and shall be finished
to the structure with a suitable building material e.g. cement mortar.

3.6.5

Whenever possible, no pipe joint should be installed inside any sleeve.

3.6.6

The minimum size of the sleeve shall be:

Pipe nominal size

Minimum nominal size of sleeve

15 mm

25 mm

20 mm

32 mm

25 mm

40 mm

32 mm

50 mm

40 mm

65 mm

50 mm

75 mm

75 mm

100 mm

100 mm

150 mm

3.6.7

The section of the metallic pipe enclosed by sleeve should have external
corrosion protective coating.

3.7

Corrosion Protection

3.7.1

General

3.7.1.1

Underground steel pipe shall be suitably protected against corrosion by

suitable external coating and wrapping. Cathodic protection may also be
utilized.

3.7.2

Coating and Wrapping

3.7.2.1

Coatings shall be applied to steel pipe and fittings to insulate the external
metal surface from their immediate environment.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

13

3.7.2.2

Coatings for pipe shall be epoxy based or polyurethane based or polyethylene

based to provide protection.

3.7.2.3

Wrapping material shall be of the following types:

a) pressure sensitive tapes; or
b) grease based tapes.
Wrapping overlap should be greater than 50%.

.
3.7.2.4

Where pipework rises out of the ground, the wrapping shall extend to at least
20 mm above the sleeve pipe.

3.7.2.5

For valves and fittings, grease, denso paste or equivalent materials should be
used as coating material.

3.7.2.6

Application of the coating/wrapping

recommendations from the suppliers.

3.7.3

Cathodic Protection

3.7.3.1

Cathodic protection may apply to steel pipe and fittings. The design of which
shall follow BS7361 or NACE RP0169 or CGA OCC-1 or equivalent.

3.8

Ground Settlement

3.8.1

Where metallic underground pipe is installed in area of possible differential

settlement and connects with/attaches to rigid structure, flexible connection
or settlement loop or similar method shall be employed to absorb the stress
caused by the differential settlement. Typical example of a settlement loop
connection is shown in Appendix I.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

materials

shall

follow

the

14

SECTION 4 INSTALLATION
4.1

General

4.1.1

Installation of LPG underground pipework shall be carried out or supervised

by competent persons in accordance with regulation 16 of Gas Safety (Gas
Supply) Regulation.

4.1.2

Steel pipe shall be laid as straight as possible. Where bends and offsets are
required, they shall be made with 45o or 90o standard fittings except as
allowed by Section 4.1.3. Mitred welds shall not be used.

4.1.3

For non-standard angles of steel pipe, cold bends may be used. Bends shall
be made only from heavy grade pipe and with appropriate bending shoes
(former) of bending radius not less than 8 times the outside diameter of the
pipe. Pipe joint shall not be located in the bending portion.

4.1.4

For changes in direction for PE pipe, it is permissible to use cold bending

around a minimum radius of 15 times the pipe diameter for plain pipe or 25
times the pipe diameter for plain pipe with sockets, joints or fitting on the
bend. Standard pipe fittings shall be used for sharp bending.

4.1.5

Underground valves shall be:

a) installed in valve pits; or
b) fitted with spindle access flaps suitably marked and identified
T wrenches for operation shall be provided where appropriate.

4.1.6

Sectional isolating valves shall be installed on ring systems to allow isolation

of sections for inspection, repair or maintenance with minimum supply
interference.

4.1.7

Materials delivered to site shall be properly handled and protected from

damage.

4.1.8

During installation, precautions shall be taken to prevent dirt from entering the
pipe internal.

4.1.9

For underground PE pipe, protection plates as per section 3.5.3 shall be

installed over the pipe to protect it from external damage if necessary.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

16

4.1.10

Pipe running parallel to inhabited buildings should be kept at least 1m away

from the openings of buildings.

4.1.11

Anchor blocks, if installed, should not be attached directly to valves and

fittings, nor should they encase mechanical joints.

4.1.12

Welding should be completed aboveground wherever possible to allow

convenient inspections.

4.1.13

Equipment for fusion jointing of polyethylene pipe should be checked in

accordance with manufacturers recommendations and instructions.

4.1.14

PE pipe installation shall be inspected during construction. Heat fusion

operations shall be monitored to check that the correct procedures are
followed.

4.1.15

Fusion joints for PE pipe shall be checked for proper bead width, freedom
from contamination, slit defects and lack of fusion in accordance with the
manufacturers specifications.

4.1.16

Each contractor shall have supervisor to monitor and ensure the quality of
installation work at site.

4.1.17

A short length at the ends of steel pipes may be left uncoated, to facilitate
field welding. These areas should be given temporary protection to prevent
corrosion during transport and storage.

4.1.18

Where cathodic protection is installed, regular inspections shall be made to

ensure that no metallic contact exists between the metal casing pipe and the
steel LPG pipe.

4.2

Coating & Wrapping

4.2.1

Pressure testing and examination of joints shall be carried out before pipe
joints are wrapped.

4.2.2

Before coating and/or wrapping, steel pipe shall be clean and smooth.
Coating manufacturers instructions shall be followed where applicable.

4.2.3

Welded joints and fittings shall be coated with a brush-applied corrosion

resistant coating, air dried before wrapping.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

17

4.2.4

The wrapping procedure for pipe shall be as follows:

a) wrapping operations shall be undertaken on a continuous basis from one
end of the pipe through to the other.
b) tapes shall be applied manually or by using a proprietary hand-operated
wrapping machine; and
c) tapes shall be applied with a minimum overlap of greater than 50% to, in
effect, give double wrapping.

4.2.5

Steel pipe should be laid in a manner that the damage to the protective
coating is minimized.

4.2.6

Prior to backfilling the trench, the coating and wrapping should be inspected
and repaired, if necessary.

4.3

Trench Work

4.3.1

Excavation work and all pre-construction precautions shall follow relevant

Government regulations and safety precautions especially the Code of
practice - Avoiding danger from gas pipes (published by GasSO).

4.3.2

Trenches shall be excavated to the appropriate depth (See section 3.4) and
the pipe shall rest on firm and even ground or laid on a bed of sand or other
suitable fine material.

4.3.3

Excavated material or granular material may generally be used for pipe

surround if they are free from stones.

4.3.4

No hard pointed rocks, stones shall be placed within 75mm of the pipe.

4.3.5

No fluid detrimental to the long-term strength of PE shall be used on PE

pipes and fittings.

4.3.6

Backfill material should be well compacted to avoid trench settlement which in

turn will affect the pipe support .

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

18

4.4

Pipe Identification

4.4.1

Marker tape or suitable marking shall be laid between 100 to 300 mm above
the crown of the pipe or on top of protective plate/slab (if installed) to:
a) facilitate future location; and
b) indicate to operators of excavation equipment the existence of a buried
gas pipe.

4.4.2

For PE pipe, additional metallic tracing tape or wire shall be installed. For
details, please see Code of Practice Avoiding danger from gas pipes
(published by GasSO).

4.4.3

The location of underground valves shall be clearly indicated by the use of

distinguishing paint, or markers or indicating plate so that they are readily
identified for operation under emergency conditions.

4.4.4

PE pipe marking shall be in accordance with BS7281 or equivalent.

4.5

Records & Drawings

4.5.1

As-built drawings shall be prepared for all underground pipes and kept for the
life of the site. The following information shall be marked on the drawings:
a) Pipe diameter
b) Operating pressure
c) Pipe routing
d) Depth of cover
e) Location of valve pit

Where PE pipe are laid, these should be shown in record drawing

annotated PE.
4.5.2

The following records shall be kept for new underground gas pipe system:
a) Specification of piping

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

19

b) Specification of major components

c) Pressure test certificate
d) Design of Cathodic Protection (CP) System (if installed) and
e) Test certificate of the CP System (if installed)

4.5.3

Records shall be reproducible and clearly legible for completeness, accuracy

and consistency.

4.5.4

Records shall be accessible for operation/ maintenance/ emergency and shall

be available to persons undertaking construction work in the vicinity of the
pipework (see Code of Practice - Avoiding danger from gas pipes).

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

20

SECTION 5 INSPECTION, TESTING & COMMISSIONING

5.1

General

5.1.1

Testing and commissioning shall be carried out by competent person, and be

certified by Listed Competent Persons. (See Appendix B)

5.1.2

Written procedures should be produced and adhered to for all testing

operations.

5.1.3

Pipework shall be pressure tested after construction and before being put into
operation to ensure that it is structurally sound and gastight. In carrying out
the test, precautions shall be taken to protect
a) the person carrying out the test;
b) any persons working in the vicinity; and
c) members of the public.
against any dangers which may arise if such pipe fails the test (see
Regulation 20 of the Gas Safety (Gas Supply) Regulation).

5.1.4

Prior to pressure testing, the completed pipework sections shall be cleaned

and free from construction debris and foreign matter.

5.1.5

Any pipe to be subject to a pressure test should be physically isolated from

any gas supply. The responsible engineer/competent person should be
present during pressurizing and depressurizing of the pipe.

5.1.6

Wherever the pipe under test is exposed, warning notice must be displayed
and the pipe must be safely barricaded-off from the public at these positions.

5.1.7

During pressure testing, no person should enter the trench where the pipeline
end point is located to avoid injury resulting from the possibility of end fitting
failure. All test instrument should be placed above ground at least 1 m from
the edge of the trench. All instrument connections to the pipe shall be
securely installed.

5.1.8

LPG shall not be used as a test medium for testing new pipework except for
the connection with existing pipework.

5.1.9

Except for the final test, the length of LPG pipe tested at one testing shall not
exceed 500m unless there is no intermediate valve in between.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

21

5.1.10

For new pipe system, medium and low pressure pipework shall be tested at a
minimum pressure of 103 kPa (15psig) and 69 kPa (10psig) respectively.
Either pneumatic or hydraulic test is acceptable. Supply from compressed gas
cylinder shall be controlled by a pressure regulator preferably with a relief
valve.

5.1.11

Time shall be allowed for temperature stabilization for pressure testing. The
pipe pressure shall be adjusted to the test figure after the stabilization.
Note: The time allowed for temperature stabilization depends on the ambient
temperature, test medium temperature, pipe size and length. Generally this
should not be less than 15 minutes.

5.1.12

For new pipework project, the pressure test period shall be 3 hours minimum
and there shall be no sign of pressure decay during this period.

5.1.13

For new piping system, all open ends of pipework shall be properly blanked
off and inspected before testing.

5.1.14

Pressure gauges or other pressure or leakage measuring devices shall be

chosen to give the accuracy and sensitivity necessary for the test.
Note: Pressure gauges should indicate the test pressure between a quarter
and three quarter of full scale reading.

5.1.15

The pressure of the pipe shall be reduced to zero as soon as practicable after
the pressure tests (see Gas Safety (Gas Supply) Regulation 20). Before
dismantling any equipment, checks should be made by reading pressure
gauges and operating valves on vent pipes to ensure that the test pressure
has been completely released.

5.1.16

Upon satisfactory completion of pressure tests, the pipework shall be purged

into service in accordance with Section 5.3 prior to its operation.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

22

5.1.17

Pipework pressure tests shall be recorded and the test report shall include
the following:
a) name of contractor and signature of the Listed Competent Person who
supervised the tests;
b) test date;
c) maximum working pressure;
d) test pressure, medium and duration;
e) test results (whether test complied with the requirements); and
f) material, rating and specification of pipe and fittings.
A sample of the standard Pressure Test Report is attached in Appendix F.

5.1.18

Where practicable, consideration should be given to checking final

connections by leak testing at maximum operating pressure using a suitable
leak detection fluid. For PE pipe and fittings, care should be exercised that no
fluid detrimental to the long-term strength of PE is used.

5.1.19

Where pipe strings are to be tested aboveground, the strings must be

securely restrained at each end and at intervals along its length, to prevent
movement during pressurization.

5.1.20

Test pressure should be raised under controlled conditions. While the

pressure is being raised, monitoring check should be made on all mechanical
joints. If any movement of the pipework occurs at any time during the test,
the test should be suspended and the pressure released to allow additional
reinforcements or supports made to the joints/pipework.

5.1.21

Calibrated pressure gauge shall be used for measuring test pressure.

5.1.22

Any leakage on a PE fusion joint should not be repaired and the joint should
be cut away and re-made.

5.1.23

Leaking mechanical or screwed joints may be tightened, but not to the extent
of over-stressing the bolts or threads. Joints shall be completely re-made if a
first tightening fails to suppress a leak and the test shall be repeated.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

23

5.2

Cathodic Protection System

5.2.1

The cathodic protection system shall be tested according to the procedure as

specified by the piping system designer or a cathodic protection design
consultant.

5.3

Purging into Service

5.3.1

The section of pipework being purged shall be isolated prior to the

commencement of the purging operation

5.3.2

Warning notices in particular No smoking and No naked lights signs

should be prominently display around the work site.

5.3.3

At least one 2.5 kg or higher capacity dry powder fire extinguisher should be
available at work site.

5.3.4

Purging and venting operation shall be manned throughout the process.

5.3.5

Purging procedure purging into service

5.3.5.1

Two basic methods (i.e. ram purging, cycle purging) can be employed for the
purging operation. Alternative methods may also be considered.
a).

Ram Purging - purge gas is fed continuously at one end of the pipework
and the gas mixture being vent off/flared at the other end under a
steady and continuous condition until the total content of the pipework is
replaced by the purge gas. Other details include:
i.

Pipework system shall be purged with inert gas such as

nitrogen until the oxygen level inside the pipework is reduced to
less than or equal to 11.4% by volume.

ii.

Inert gas shall be introduced at a controlled and steady

condition.

iii.

Inert gas pressure shall be controlled and shall not be higher

than the lower of 10 psi and the maximum working pressure.

iv.

Upon the completion of inert gas purging, inert gas in the

pipework system shall be purged by LPG following the same
procedure.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

24

b)

v.

Frost forming on the underground pipe surface shall be

avoided.

vi.

Venting shall follow the procedure in section 5.3.6.

Cycle Purging (i.e. Pressure and Vent) - the content inside the closed
pipework system is diluted by introducing purge gas. Pressure is being
increased by the purge gas and subsequently the gas mixture is vented
off until the pressure of the pipework reduces to atmospheric. This
process is repeated until the required dilution is achieved or the
replacement by the purge gas is completed. Other details include:
i.

Cycle purging can be employed in closed system which has one

vent point only and for system with dead ends.

ii.

Purge gas shall be introduced into the system and the

maximum pressure allowed in this method shall not exceed the
lower of 10 psi or the maximum working pressure. The purge
gas will mix with the air inside. The mixture is then vented off as
per section 5.3.6.

iii.

The oxygen level inside the pipework shall be reduced to less

than or equal to 11.4% by volume.

Combination of ram and cycle purging can be used in the purging operation.

5.3.6.

Venting

5.3.6.1

Two basic methods (direct vent and flaring) can be used to vent off the gas in
the pipework system.
a).

Flaring
i.

Before the flaring process, the Fire Services Department should

be informed.

ii.

Flare stack shall be equipped with a proper burner and a

permanent pilot.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

25

b).

iii.

The flare stack should be located at a safe distance at least

15m away from the LPG bulk tanks or cylinder stores,
flammable material substance and within a controlled safe
area.

iv.

The flare stack pipe shall be metallic and incorporated with a

flame arrestor.

v.

Care shall be taken to ensure complete removal of the inert gas

before terminating the flaring process. The completion of
purging process may be indicated by a stable flame at the flare
stack or by measuring the gas purity against calibrated
chemical reagent gas detection tube.

Direct Vent
i. Inert gas can be vented directly to atmosphere in well ventilated
area.
ii. LPG/inert gas or LPG/air mixture may be dispersed under proper
supervision to a well ventilated area without flaring if the following
conditions are met:-

5.3.7

the vent pipe is terminated at a minimum height of 2.5 m above

ground level.

the vent pipe is located within a manned control safe area

where it is cordoned off from the public and no source of
ignition exists within 15 m from the controlled area.

gas detector shall be used to monitor the combustible gas

concentration within and adjacent to the controlled area.

venting operation shall be stopped immediately should the

reading of the gas detector exceed 10%LEL.

venting operation shall not be recommenced until the

percentage of LEL in the controlled area fall below 10%.

Direct purge of air by LPG under proper supervision is permissible provided

that the purge pressure is maintained at or below maximum working
pressure.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

26

5.4

Purging out of Service

5.4.1

The section of pipework being purged shall be isolated prior to the

commencement of the purging operation.

5.4.2

Warning notices in particular No smoking and No naked lights signs

should be prominently displayed at the work site.

5.4.3

At least one 2.5 kg or higher capacity dry powder fire extinguisher shall be
available at work site.

5.4.4

Purging and venting operation shall be manned throughout the process.

5.4.5

Section of pipework to be purged out of service shall be depressurized by

either flaring or direct vent as described in section 5.3.6.

5.4.6

Purging procedure - purging out of service

5.4.6.1

Two basic methods (ram purging, cycle purging) can be employed for the
purging operation.
a).

Ram Purging
i.

Before introducing air into the pipework, it shall be purged with

inert gas such as nitrogen gas to form an interface so that the
LEL level is less than 10% by volume.

ii.

Inert gas should be introduced at a controlled and steady

condition.

iii.

Inert gas pressure should be controlled and shall not be higher

than the lower of 10 psi and the maximum working pressure.

iv.

Frost forming on the underground pipe surface shall be

avoided.

v.

Venting of LPG/inert gas mixture shall follow the procedure in

section 5.3.6. Venting may be terminated when the LEL level
inside the pipework is reduced to 5% LEL or less.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

27

b)

Cycle Purging - the content inside the closed pipework system is diluted
by introducing purge gas. Pressure is being increased by the purge gas
and subsequently the gas mixture is vented off until the pressure of the
pipework reduces to atmospheric pressure. The process is repeated
until the required dilution is achieved or the replacement by the purge
gas is completed. Other details include:
i.

Cycle purging can be employed in a closed system which has

one vent point only and for system having dead ends.

ii.

Purge gas shall be introduced into the system and the maximum
applied pressure shall not exceed the lower of 10 psi and the
maximum working pressure. The purge gas will mix with the LPG
inside. The mixture is then vented off as per section 5.3.6.

iii.

The LEL level inside the pipework shall be reduced to less than
or equal to 5%.

Combination of ram and cycle purging may also be used.

5.4.7.

Direct purge of LPG by air is not allowed. An interface of inert gas or water
shall be used to purge LPG out of the pipework.
Note: No one shall carry out any hotwork to the LPG pipework until the
atmosphere inside the pipework and the surrounding atmosphere is verified
to contain less than 5% of LEL of LPG.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

28

SECTION 6 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

6.1

General

6.1.1

The owner of underground LPG pipe shall have a duty to maintain and
operate the pipe in a safe condition and shall employ a Listed Competent
Person to inspect and test the pipe at intervals as specified in Section 6.2.1.

6.1.2

Maintenance work including replacement and diversion of gas pipe shall be

carried out by competent persons.

6.1.3

For hot work on underground pipe that are being used or have been in use for
carrying LPG, a work permit system incorporating control procedures shall be
in place. Work permits shall be kept for a minimum of 2 years as part of the
maintenance records.

6.1.4

When separating two sections of metallic pipework that are being used or
have been in use for carrying LPG, electrical cross bonding to the two
sections shall be provided prior to and during the work.

6.1.5

Only materials that are in accordance with the requirements of Section 3.3
shall be used for the maintenance and repair of underground LPG pipework.

6.1.6

LPG pipe shall be purged out of service in accordance with Section 5.4 before
any maintenance work related to hotwork on the underground pipe is carried
out on such pipe or before the pipe is recommissioned to carry gas (see
Regulation 23 of Gas Safety (Gas Supply) Regulation).

6.1.7

Before recommissioning of any pipework to carry LPG, the pipework shall be

properly re-instated and purged into service in accordance with Section 5.3.

6.1.8

All reported cases of leak or suspected leak of a LPG pipework shall be

investigated promptly and appropriate actions taken.

6.1.9

Information for locating underground pipework and other records as per

Section 4.5 shall be made readily available for maintenance work. A site plan
showing the pipe route should be kept in the LPG store or local operator
office.

6.1.10

Main underground valves should be uniquely identified to allow easy

reference and to avoid mistakes during operation and maintenance.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

29

6.1.11

For MDPE pipes, squeeze-off tools may be used which apply a controlled
external force to the pipe, deforming it sufficiently to close the bore. Where
the squeeze-off force is provided by means other than mechanical, the tool
should be locked mechanically to protect against failure of the power source.

6.1.12

The minimum distance between a squeeze-off and a pipe fitting or a cut

should be the greater of 450 mm or 2.5 times the PE pipe diameter. Where
squeeze-off has been applied to a PE pipe, the pipe should be returned to its
original form by a re-rounding tool and the position of the squeeze-off should
accordingly be suitably marked. The same location should not be squeezedoff again in future.

6.1.13

Where connections from PE pipe to metallic pipe are close to the existing
tappings, an axial distance of the greater of 600mm or 3.5 times the nominal
diameter of the larger hole, should be allowed between the centres of the two
tappings.

6.1.14

Where it is necessary to maintain continuity of supply, a by-pass pipe should

be fitted across the affected pipe section. Any by-pass pipe should be
protected from mechanical damage and from interference when the site is
unattended.

6.1.15

When carrying out operations and maintenance, all techniques adopted shall
not cause any uncontrolled release of LPG into the immediate working site
environment .

6.1.16

Pipeline cutting and branching should be carefully pre-planned and be carried

out under strict supervision, to ensure that all risks are adequately controlled.

6.1.17

The points at which the gas pipe has to be cut should be free from corrosion
defects, hard encrustation and be thoroughly cleaned externally, to facilitate
subsequent jointing.

6.1.18

Flame cutting should not be performed on PE pipe.

6.1.19

Where pipes are abandoned, a potential migration path for any leaking gas is
created. All openings of the abandoned pipes should therefore be sealed and
long lengths of abandoned pipes should be sectionalized.

6.1.20

When enquired by a party who may excavate near underground gas pipe, the
owner of the underground LPG pipe shall provide relevant information to the
party.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

30

6.1.21

Where it is considered that any proposed works will affect underground gas
pipe, the party proposing the work shall take appropriate measures to afford
protection to the pipe. These measures may include decommissioning a pipe
for the duration of the proposed operations, diversion of the pipe, special
protection to the pipe or changes to the proposed operations.

6.1.22

The pipe route should be surveyed annually to check for accessibility of valve
pit, condition of pipework inside the valve pit and changes along the pipe
route. Leakage survey using gas detector should be carried out after
abnormal incidents when pipes are susceptible to exposure or damage e.g.
land subsidence, bursting of water pipes, nearby landslide. Where pipes are
exposed, the condition of the pipe should also be examined and recorded.

6.1.23

Steel pipes may be repaired by welding carried out by qualified welders using
appropriate electrodes. Care must be taken to ensure that the atmosphere is
not hazardous and that the pipe material is sufficiently thick and in good
condition. Appropriate corrosion protection measures should be taken once
the repair has been completed.

6.2

Inspection and Testing

6.2.1

Medium and low pressure underground pipework shall be tested at intervals

not exceeding 3 years at a minimum pressure of 103 kPa (15 psig) and 69
kPa (10 psi) respectively. Test duration shall be not less than 30 minutes after
line pressure has been stabilized.

6.2.2

Pressure tests shall be carried out in accordance with Section 5 upon reinstatement of disconnected/replaced pipework.

6.2.3

Cathodic protection system, if installed, shall be checked for its proper

function at intervals not exceeding 6 months.

6.2.4

Aboveground identification marks, and warning signs, where installed, shall

be checked to ensure that they are in place and legible.

6.2.5

Valve pit/chambers should be checked for accessibility, integrity,

accumulation of LPG/water and be properly maintained at regular intervals.

6.2.6

Inspection, testing and maintenance records including those for cathodic

protection system shall be kept by the owner for the service life of the
pipework. Samples of the record forms are shown in Appendix G1 and G2.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

31

6.3

Pipework Abandonment

6.3.1

Pipework which will

decommissioned.

6.3.2

The section of the abandoned pipework shall be decommissioned by

no

longer

be

used

to

carry

LPG

shall

be

a. purged out of service in accordance with section 5.4 and

b. be disconnected from operating pipework with ends capped, plugged
or effectively sealed
6.3.3

Abandoned pipework should be removed where practicable.

6.3.4

Pipework that is not decommissioned shall be treated as a live system.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

32

SECTION 7 GAS LEAKAGE SURVEY

7.1

General

7.1.1

Combustible gas detector or pressure drop test or combination of both may

be employed for leakage survey.

7.1.2

Other survey and test methods may be employed to help the identification of
leakage location.

7.1.3

Gas leakage survey shall only be performed by trained personnel.

7.1.4

Gas Detection Methods

a) Gas detector
The gas detector used for LPG leak detection shall be calibrated
periodically to ensure accuracy.
b)

Pressure drop test

i.

Pipes subject to pressure drop tests shall be isolated from the other
parts of the system.

ii.

Maximum leak test pressure on existing facilities shall not exceed 1.5
times the maximum operating pressure.

iii.

After the pressure is raised to the test pressure, the pressure source
shall be isolated from the test section.

iv.

If the test medium is an inert gas, purging into service and purging
out of service procedures shall follow sections 5.3 and 5.4
respectively.

7.2

Follow-up Actions (if leakage is detected)

7.2.1

Upon the identification of leakage, the following action shall be taken:

a) For major leak that may constitute immediate hazard, emergency
response actions shall be immediately taken.
b) For minor leak that is recognized as having no immediate hazard, a repair
shall be arranged and the pipe system condition shall be monitored.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

33

7.2.2

For defective pipework which is commissioned for 5 years or less, the

defective section should be recovered and investigated where practicable.

7.2.3.

The owner shall record and maintain the following information for major gas
leakage:
a) date discovered, time reported and the deployment details of emergency
team.
b) name and address of the person who made the report (if available)
c) location of and details of leakage.
A sample of the Gas Leakage Report record is shown in Appendix H.

7.3

Leakage Survey Record

7.3.1

Leakage survey records shall be kept by owner and the following information
shall be included:

7.3.2

7.3.3

a)

description of system and area surveyed shown by a sketch map with

layout of surrounding buildings

b)

dates, methods and results of survey

c)

names of personnel carrying out or supervising the survey

For pressure drop tests performed, the following additional information shall
be kept by owner:
a)

the name of company and the name of the personnel carrying out the
test.

b)

test medium, pressure and duration of test,

c)

test results

Gas leakage records shall be monitored and any trend of the leakage incident
shall be reviewed.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

34

APPENDIX A

RELEVANT SECTIONS IN RELATION TO THE GAS SAFETY (GAS

SUPPLY) REGULATIONS

Gas Safety (Gas Supply) Regulations

Relevant
Sections in
Module 2

Reg. 2: Interpretation

Reg. 16: Only competent persons to carry out work on or in

relation to gas pipes

4.1,
6.1.2

Reg. 17: General safety requirements for gas pipes

3.1, 3.2

Reg. 19: Protection of premises

3.1.2,
3.1.3

Reg.20: Pressure tests on gas pipes, etc.

5.1

Reg. 23: Purging of gas pipes

5.3,
6.1

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

5.1,

Sections
Quoted in
Module 2

4.1.1,
5.1.1,
6.1.1,
6.1.2
3.1.1,
3.1.4,
3.1.5,
3.1.6

5.1.3,
5.1.15
5.4,

5.3, 5.4,
6.1.6

Appendix A
1

APPENDIX B

ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR LISTED COMPETENT PERSON

UNDER GAS SAFETY ORDINANCE, CAP.51
Class 1 - Testing and Certification
of LPG Cylinders, Tanks, Vaporisers and Gas Mains

1.

Responsibilities
LPG Cylinders
(a) Ensure that cylinder testers carry out inspection and testing of cylinders in
the prescribed manner.
(b) Certify that tested cylinders meet the required standards.
LPG Tanks
(c) Visual inspections of LPG tanks prior to testing.
(d) Supervise pressure testing of LPG tanks.
(e) Ensure that non-destructive testing and examination of LPG tanks are
carried out in accordance with approved procedures and codes.
(f) Certify that they are suitable for LPG services.
LPG Vaporisers and Mains
(g) Ensure that pressure testing of LPG vaporisers/mains is carried out in
accordance with appropriate procedures and codes.
(h) Certify that tested vaporisers/mains meet the required standards.

2.

Knowledge Required
Must have a full understanding of the following subjects:(a) Design codes and test standards pertaining to LPG cylinders, tanks,
vaporisers, gas mains, valves and associated equipment.
(b) Non-destructive testing technology.
(c) Strength of materials and other properties of materials used on
cylinders/tanks/vaporisers/gas mains.
(d) Codes of practice for LPG and properties of LPG.

3.

Experience
At least 1 year of relevant experience in this category of work.

4.

Qualifications
Should be qualified to any one of the following professions or equivalent
professional attainment:
(a) D.O.T. (U.K.) First Class Engineer;
(b) Corporate Member of the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers in the
Mechanical, Chemical, Gas or Marine Engineering disciplines;

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

Appendix B
Page 1

(c) Corporate Member of one of the following: Institution of Mechanical

Engineers, Institution of Chemical Engineers, Institution of Gas engineers
or Institution of Marine Engineers.
Notes:(i)
The Gas Authority may require the applicant to attend an interview for verifying
the appropriateness of his/her training and experience.
(ii)
When a competent person ceases to practise in the gas industry for 12 months,
his/her name may be removed from the register.
(iii)
If a competent person changes his/her employer within the gas industry, he/she
shall notify the Gas Authority of the change within 28 days.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

Appendix B
Page 2

APPENDIX C1 TYPICAL DESIGN FOR PIPE-IN-PIPE ARRANGEMENT

AND VALVE PITS UNDER CARRIAGEWAY

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

Appendix C1

APPENDIX C2 DEPTH OF COVER AND EXTRA MECHANICAL

PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR U/G LPG PIPE

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

Appendix C2

APPENDIX D

1.

GUIDANCE NOTES FOR LAYING OF UNDERGROUND LPG PIPES

ALONG OR ACROSS PUBLIC ROADS GAS SAFETY (GAS
SUPPLY) REGULATION 17(4)

INTRODUCTION
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is heavier than air and any leakage from
underground LPG mains would fall to its lowest level and may enter into poorly
ventilated voids, culverts, drains, ducts, pits and adjacent underground car parks
and basements. This would then be a hazard if there was an ignition source. In
view of this, underground LPG mains are generally limited to developments where
the surrounding environment can be controlled. In addition, Regulation 17(4) of the
Gas Safety (Gas Supply) Regulations stipulates that No person shall install a gas
main for the conveyance of liquefied petroleum gas along or across a road.. A
road is defined in the Gas Safety Ordinance to have the same meaning as that of
the Road Traffic Ordinance, Cap. 374 which is basically a public road.
Notwithstanding specific legal requirements, there are circumstances which are
considered necessary or beneficial to install some parts of a gas main along or
across a public road, and therefore there is a provision under the Gas Safety (Gas
Supply) Regulations for the Gas Authority to grant an exemption from the
restrictions as stated. In granting an exemption, the Gas Authority must be
satisfied that public safety will not be prejudiced and may specify additional
conditions for compliance.
The purpose of the Guidance Note is to specify certain circumstances under which
the Gas Authority may grant an exemption from the requirements of Regulation
17(4), and to outline necessary criteria for exemption so that a proponent may
apply for such an exemption.

2.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
The following are special circumstances under which the Gas Authority may
consider granting an exemption, i.e.
(a) When a new/existing bulk installation is located at/relocated away from a
development, and where the interconnecting LPG main has to be laid across or
along a public road.
(b) When a new development can be supplied by a gas main laid along or across
a public road from an existing reticulation system of a piped LPG development,
and where the overall risk levels would be less than establishing a new notifiable
gas installation.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

Appendix D
Page 1

(c) When a private road of an existing development which is supplied with piped
LPG is to be taken over by Government as a public road and there is a gas main
laid beneath it.
(d) When a piped gas supply is required on a specific development which
includes a public road.
3.

CRITERIA FOR EXEMPTION

3.1

Risk Consideration

Where laying of LPG mains may lead to increase in storage inventory and/or road
tanker replenishment frequency of an existing LPG compound, a quantitative risk
assessment study shall be conducted to demonstrate that the overall risks are in
line with the Hong Kong Government Risk Guidelines.
3.2

Material

Material for LPG mains shall be of heavy grade steel conforming to BS 1387 or
equivalent. All underground LPG mains shall be of welded construction only and
welded joints shall be fabricated in accordance with relevant design and welding
standards. Medium density polyethylene (MDPE) pipe is an acceptable alternative
for underground pipework provided that suitable precautionary measures are
taken.
3.3

Routing and Sizing

Underground LPG mains shall be routed in such a way so as to prevent the

possibility of leaking gas from entering into buildings, and to minimise undue
interference with other utility services. The separation distance of an LPG main
from buildings shall not be less than 1 m. The clearance between an LPG main
and other utility services shall be 300 mm minimum. This clearance may be
reduced for crossings subject to adequate protection being provided e.g. slabs and
sleeving, but shall not be less than 100 mm. The operating pressure and internal
diameter of an LPG main shall not be greater than 69 kPag (10psig) and 200 mm
respectively.
3.4

Ground Conditions

In designing pipe routing, careful consideration shall be given to avoid possible

ground settlement, subsidence, vehicular and mechanical loading. Where
necessary, additional measures shall be provided to monitor and avoid possible
damage resulting form adverse ground conditions.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

Appendix D
Page 2

3.5

Trench Preparation and Reinstatement

Underground LPG mains shall be laid on a firm and even foundation at a depth of
1 m minimum measured from the road surface to the top of the mains. The mains
shall be protected against mechanical damage by means of concrete slabs or steel
plates at a height of 100 mm above the main, be embedded in sand or soil and be
compacted with backfill materials firmly and evenly before making good of the road
surface. Where an LPG main is laid across a road, it shall be sleeved with suitably
sized steel pipe and be provided with means for gas leak detection. Yellow plastic
marker tape shall be laid between 100 mm and 300 mm above all LPG mains for
identification and warning purposes. Additional metallic tracing tape shall be
installed in the case of MDPE pipes.
3.6

System Protection

Isolating valve and pit shall be provided at either ends of the section of LPG main
across the road and be strategically located for sections along the road. Steel
mains shall be protected against corrosion by means of suitable coating, wrapping
and/or cathodic protection under adverse soil conditions. The design and
construction of cathodic protection system shall be carried out by experienced
corrosion specialists and the system be checked periodically.
3.7

Record Plans

Owners of LPG mains shall maintain accurate alignment records and update as
necessary. When requested, relevant information on locations of LPG mains shall
be provided to persons wishing to carry out works in the vicinity of the mains.
4.

APPLICATION
In applying for exemption from Reg.17(4), the applicant shall provide justifications
for such application to the Gas Authority and submit two copies of plans showing
details of the proposed LPG main including operating pressure, routing, material,
mode of protection and any safety provisions. The applicant shall also apply to the
Director of Highways and the Director of Lands for an excavation permit and
wayleave respectively.

5.

ENQUIRIES
Any enquiry should be made to the Gas Standards Office, Electrical & Mechanical
Services Department, 6/F., 98 Caroline Hill Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong at
Tel. No.. : 2808 3683 and Fax. No. 2576 5945.

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

Appendix D
Page 3

APPENDIX E

SLEEVING ARRANGEMENT FOR LPG PIPE

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

Appendix E

Appendix G1 : Typical Sample of Maintenance Record of Underground Pipework

(refer to 6.2.6)
Section I Particulars of LPG U/G pipework
Location
Owner
Gas Supply Company
Approx. Length of MP
pipe=
Approx. length of LP pipe
Number of valve pits
Date of last revalidation
of pipe
First installation date of
U/G pipe

Section II

Inspection Checklist

A Site Condition (Visual inspection)

< >

D Valve pit Inspection

< >

1 Signs of ground settlement along the pipe

Condition of pipework and fittings

2 Condition of indication marks/warning sign*

Identification markings of pipework/valves/

3 Accessibility of valve pit/chamber

No jam in opening / closing valve (if possible)

4 Others

Others

B Record of Maintenance and Alterations

< >

E Remarks/Other Information

< >

1 Revalidation testing records (once every 3 years)

2 Alteration records
3 Others
C Cathodic Protection System (if installed)

<

>

1 Record of cathodic protection system test

2 Others

Note : <X>cross if unsatisfactory; <9>tick if satisfactory; <NA>_if not applicable

Section III

* delete as appropriate

Recommendations and Remedial Work

(A) Recommendations

(B) Remedial work done by Owner

Item

Tick if Completed Planned Completion Date

Description

Note : Please use additional sheets if necessary

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

Appendix G1
Page 1

Appendix G2 : Typical Sample of LPG Underground Pipework Revalidation Test

Report (refer to 6.2.6)
Location/address of LPG pipe :

____________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________
I certify that all liquefied petroleum gas underground pipework installed at the above premises has been
revalidated in accordance with the Gas Standards Offices requirements. The test/examination was carried out
by __________________________________________________________ of __________________________
_____________________________________________________________ on _________________________

Details of pipework materials and tests are as follows :Section of Pipework

All High Pressure

Liquid / Vapour Lines

All Medium Pressure

Vapour Lines

All Low Pressure

Vapour Lines

Testing medium

Maximum Working pressure

(kPa)
Revalidated Testing pressure
(kPa)

Duration of test (Hr)

Remarks :

Pressure drop observed? Yes/No.

If 'Yes', please specify causes and remedial actions : ________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

Certified by listed competent person (class 1)

supervising the test : _______________________ Signature : _________________________________

Company Name : _________________________________

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

Company Chop : __________________

Appendix G2
Page 1

Appendix H : Typical Sample of Gas Leakage Report record

(refer to 7.2.3)
Ref. No _______________
Date and Time of incident_______________________________________________________
Location ____________________________________________________________________
Nature of incident (Leakage/Fire/Explosion/)
Type of supply

(Cylinder/Piped Gas/Cylinder bank/Industrial/LPG Compound)

Name of Caller ________________________________________________________________

Contact telephone of caller _______________________________________________________
Other information : _____________________________________________________________

Follow up Actions
Emergency Team _________________________________________________________
Name of person contacted___________________________________________________
Time of informing emergency team __________________________________________
Time arrived ____________________________________________________________
Time completed ________________________ by _______________________________

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

Appendix H
Page 1

APPENDIX I

TYPICAL
EXAMPLE
CONNECTION

LPG Code of Practice, Module 2

May 2003

OF

SETTLEMENT

LOOP

Appendix I