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KENYA STANDARD
and sea — Code of practice

Transportation of LPG in bulk by road, rail
KS 1938-2: 2012
ICS 75.160.30
First Edition 2012

KS 1938-2: 2012
TECHNICAL COMMITTEE REPRESENTATION
The following organizations were represented on the Technical Committee:
Chemigas Ltd.
Energy Regulatory Commission.
KenolKobil Ltd.
Kenya Shell Ltd.
Kurrent Technologies Ltd.
Libya Oil Kenya Ltd.
Ministry of Energy
National Oil Corporation of Kenya
Petroleum Institute of E.A
Symetrics Ltd.
Synergetic Energy Partners
Trinity Petroleum Ltd.
Kenya Bureau of Standards — Secretariat
REVISION OF KENYA STANDARDS

In order to keep abreast of progress in industry, Kenya Standards shall be regularly reviewed. Suggestions
for improvements to published standards, addressed to the Managing Director, Kenya Bureau of Standards,
are welcome.
© Kenya Bureau of Standards, 2012
Copyright. Users are reminded that by virtue of Section 25 of the Copyright Act, Cap. 12 of 2001 of the Laws of Kenya, copyright
subsists in all Kenya Standards and except as provided under Section 26 of this Act, no Kenya Standard produced by Kenya Bureau of
Standards may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system in any form or transmitted by any means without prior permission in writing
from the Managing Director.
ii © KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved

KENYA STANDARD KS 1938-2: 2012
ICS 75.160.30
Transportation of LPG in bulk by road, rail

and sea — Code of practice

KENYA BUREAU OF STANDARDS (KEBS)
Head Office: P.O. Box 54974, Nairobi-00200, Tel.: (+254 020) 605490, 602350, Fax: (+254 020) 604031
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Coast Region Lake Region Rift Valley Region

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Fax: (+254 041) 229448 Fax: (+254 057) 21814
© KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved iii

KS 1938-2: 2012
Foreword
This Kenya Standard was prepared by the LPG Tanks and Installations Technical Committee under the
guidance of the Standards Projects Committee, and it is in accordance with the procedures of the Kenya
Bureau of Standards.
With the revamping of the railway line and general improvement of the road network and with the setting up
of the large LPG storage facility in the country, there is going to be an increase in the movement of LPG
following the government’s effort to increase use of LPG in the country. To this end therefore, there is need
to come up with safe handling of LPG on road, rail and sea transportation.
iv © KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved

KENYA STANDARD KS 1938-2: 2012
Transportation of LPG in bulk by road, rail and sea — Code of practice
1 Scope
This Kenya Standard specifies the Code of Practice to be followed while transporting Liquefied petroleum
gas in bulk by road, rail and sea.
2. Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document:
KS 91, Liquefied petroleum gas mixtures.

KS 485, Specification for rubber hoses for liquefied petroleum gases.
KS 1426, Product Colour coding
KS 1968, Code of practice: The petroleum industry — Part II: Electrical installations in the distribution and
marketing sector
KS 2223, LPG road tankers — Inspection and testing
KS 2224, Welded steel tanks for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) — Road tankers — Design and manufacture
KS 2270, Bulk LPG road tankers — Vehicle, equipment and accessories — Assembly
SABS 691, Commercial propane.
SABS 1156, Rubber hose for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) Part I: Hoses used in road and rail transport.
IEC 60079 -10, Explosive atmospheres — Part 10: Classification of areas - Explosive gas atmospheres
IEC 60079-14, Explosive atmospheres — Part 14: Electrical installations design, selection and erection
IEC 60079-17 ; Explosive atmospheres — Part 17: Electrical installations inspection and maintenance
ASME B31, Piping and piping systems.
BS 3351, Piping systems for petroleum refineries and petrochemical plants.
BS 3602, Specification for steel pipes and tubes for pressure purposes: carbon and carbon manganese steel
with specified elevated temperature properties.
BS 4089, Rubber hose and hose assemblies for liquefied petroleum gas lines.
IP 250, Petroleum measurement tables based on a reference temperature of 20 ºC.
ISO 3874, Series 1 freight containers — Handling and securing.
© KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved 1

KS 1938-2: 2012
3 Definitions
For the purposes of this standard, the following definitions shall apply:
3.1
approved
accepted by the approving authority
3.2
approving authority
the appropriate of the following:
3.2.1
within the scope of the Factories and Other Places of Work Act
the Director of Occupational Health and Safety Services
3.2.2
within the jurisdiction of the Kenya Railways

the Kenya Railways administration
3.2.3
within the scope of weights and measures
the Director of Weights and Measures
3.2.4
within the scope of the jurisdiction of local authorities
the local authority concerned
3.2.5
within the marine jurisdiction
The Director of Kenya Maritime Authority
3.3
filling ratio
the ratio of the mass of LPG introduced into a tank, to the mass of water (determined at, or corrected to 20
o
C), that would fill the tank
NOTE The term “filling ratio” applies when the filling of a container with liquefied gas is controlled on the basis of the
mass of gas introduced.
3.4
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)
commercial butane, commercial propane, or a mixture of light hydrocarbons (predominantly propane, butane
and butene) that is gaseous under conditions of ambient temperature and pressure and that is maintained in
the liquid state by an increase of pressure or a lowering of temperature
NOTE Commercial butane, Liquefied petroleum gas mixtures and commercial propane are covered by KS 03-91,
Liquefied petroleum gas mixtures.
3.5
maximum working pressure
the maximum internal pressure that is permitted for a tank during service
3.6
semi-trailer
a trailer having no front axle and so designed that at least 15 % of its tare is superimposed on and borne by
a vehicle drawing the trailer
2 © KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved

KS 1938-2: 2012
3.7
tank
a pressure vessel designed for the conveyance of commercial propane, and as defined in, and complying
with, the regulations framed under the Factories and other places of Work Act (the Directorate of
Occupational Health and Safety Services)
NOTE A tank that is suitable for the conveyance of commercial propane may also be used to convey commercial
butane and LPG mixtures.
4 Bulk handling for movement by road
LPG is moved in tank trucks by road. These trucks are designed by a competent authority and are fitted with
various devices in accordance with KS 2223, KS 2224 and KS 2270.
4.1 Facilities
4.1.1 Loading
Each loading station shall consist of the following:
a) A filling line with an isolation valve and excess flow check valve.
b) A vapour return line with an isolation valve connected back to the storage vessel from which the loading
pump is drawing LPG.
c) Suitable loading arm/flexible hoses as per KS ISO 2829 shall be provided at the end of filling and vapour
return lines for connecting to the tank truck vessel.
d) Weigh bridges of suitable capacity / mass flow meters shall be provided for custody transfer of product
by weight.
e) A check valve shall be provided in the vapour return line.
A typical sketch of loading facilities is shown in Annex C.
4.1.2 Unloading
Unloading of LPG from tank truck is carried out with vapour compressors using pressure differential method
of liquid transfer. The compressor shall be placed at the unloading point with the following facilities:
a) Vapour line with isolation valves
b) Product transfer line with isolation valves
c) Weigh bridge of suitable capacity
A typical sketch of unloading facilities is shown in Annex-E.
4.2 Safety precautions
a) Transfer of LPG to or from a tank truck requires special attention as accidental movement of vehicle may
cause rupture in the transfer equipments.
b) No source of ignition must be allowed in the area where product transfer operations are carried out.
c) Fire extinguishers shall be placed near the tank trucks during transfer operations.
d) The first operation after positioning the truck should be to provide proper earthing. Earthing shall be
disconnected just before the release of the truck.

KS 1938-2: 2012
e) Before removing plugs or caps, always crack open to allow for release of trapped LPG and further to
ensure that the valves are effectively sealed.
f) Hoses should be handled with care and inspected periodically as per KS ISO 2829.
g) While disconnecting hoses/pipes, connections should be loosened only slightly at first to allow release of
trapped pressure, if any.
h) Do not expose hands, face or clothing to liquid LPG. Always use personal protective equipments while
making or breaking the connections to avoid cold burns.
i) Gas detection system shall be provided in line with a reputable international standard.
j) The master switch shall be put off immediately after parking the truck in position. No electrical switch on
the truck shall be turned " on" or " off" during the transfer operation.
k) No repairs shall be made on the truck while it is in the loading area.
l) New tank trucks vessels or vessels received after repair shall be purged before loading as mentioned
under the Item 4.5 "Commissioning and Decommissioning".
m) It is recommended that the receiving vessel having a pressure of less than 1 kg/sq.cm.g should not be
filled. Such vessel should be checked for oxygen content/explosive mixture and purged, if necessary.
n) Venting and purging of LPG during transfer operation normally should not be carried out in open
atmosphere. It should be piped to a suitable flare system. Where such facility does not exist, vent pipes
shall be provided to carry the vented product to a safe distance and released at a height not less than
three metres above the highest point of any building, shed or structure within 15m radius. Snuffing steam
facility may be provided for the vent line.
o) Filling/transfer operations should be stopped immediately in the event of -
i) Uncontrolled leakage occurring
ii) A fire occurring in the vicinity
iii) Lightning and thunder storm
4.3 Procedures for operation
4.3.1 Loading operations
a) Check for the following in a tank truck before accepting it for filling:
i) Two safety valves are provided on the vessel.
ii) Fixed tube gauge is provided.
iii) Excess flow valve is provided.
iv) Pressure gauge is provided.
v) Temperature gauge is provided.
vi) Fire screen between cabin and vessel is provided.
vii) 2 Nos. of 10 kg DCP Fire Extinguishers are provided.
viii) Spark arrestors of approved quality are fitted.
ix) No leakage in exhaust silencer pipe exists.

KS 1938-2: 2012
x) Manufacturer's name plate with date of testing is fitted on the vessel.
xi) Valid explosive licence is available.
xii) Approved drawings of vessel are available.
xiii) Blind flanges/caps are provided on vessel.
xiv) Earthing cable is provided.
xv) Bonding between vessel and chassis is satisfactory.
xvi) Bonding between flanges in manifold is satisfactory.
xvii) Excess flow valve and control valve are available on water drain line.
xviii) Bonding point is available.

xix) Third party inspection/test certificates for vessel/fittings are available.
xx) Liquid / vapour line valves are in good condition.
b) Move truck to the loading bay/weigh bridge and record the weight of the empty tank truck.
c) Check and record residual LPG pressure using fitted devices.
d) Stop the truck on a leveled ground and place check blocks at front and rear wheels.
e) Stop the engine and switch off all electrical equipments.
f) All persons should leave the driver's cabin.
g) Ensure that fire extinguishers are readily available.
h) Make bonding connections of the vehicle at specified point to the fixed grounding system.
i) Connect liquid line and vapour lines suitably with the loading point (Note: Hoses should not be
passed under the loading/offloading truck). Crack open valves on loading and vapour return lines and
inspect hoses and connections for leakage. Loading should start only when the system is leak free.
j) Start the loading pump.
k) The quantity loaded into the truck can be determined by -
i) Liquid level
ii) Weighing
iii) Positive displacement meter
l) Liquid level may be determined by roto-gauge or fixed liquid level gauge. Percentage volume to be
filled should be pre-determined.
m) Where weigh-bridge is used, it is necessary to determine the density of the product being loaded to
avoid excess filling in terms of volume. The weigh bridge shall be periodically calibrated and stamped by
Weights & Measures Authorities.
n) Whether a gauging device is used or a weigh bridge is employed for filling operation, when the
liquid content is approximately within 5% of the safe filling level, the operator should position himself so that
he is in control of the shut off valve and starts to close the valve as the safe filling level approaches.

KS 1938-2: 2012
o) When the filling operation is in progress, the pressure within the tank truck vessel should be
observed to ensure that it does not approach the start-to-discharge pressure of the relief valve. Filling rate
may be regulated as required.
p) The couplings may then be removed and plugs/caps replaced on the tank truck valves. Re-check
tightness with soap solution.
Note 1 All the operations must be attended to by the driver and the loader at all times to actuate the stop button in the
case of emergencies.
Note 2 All transfer operations shall cease on discovery of any leaks during the transfer. Such leaks shall be rectified
before commencement of transfer operations.
4.3.2 Unloading operation
Operations described under 4.3.2a) through 4.3.2f) in 4.3.1 should be carried out.
a) Liquid line and vapour line of the tank truck should be connected to the respective hoses fixed to the
unloading point.
b) Test the connections for leaks by slightly opening the valves for pressurising. When satisfied, valves
on the tank truck and the receiving vessel should be opened.
c) Start the evacuation compressor. Vapours will be sucked from the receiving vessel and will be
discharged into the vapour space of the tank truck vessel creating pressure differential, thereby pushing the
liquid from the tank truck vessel to the receiving vessel.
d) Care should be exercised to see that the pressure created within the delivering vessel does not
reach or exceed the set pressure of the relief valve.
e) An authorised person of the company should supervise the transfer operation and respond
immediately in the event of an emergency.
f) After the liquid has been expelled, the vapour recovery operation should be started. Care should be
taken not to bring down the pressure of the delivering vessel below 1.5 kg/cm.sq.g.
Operations described under Item 14 in paragraph 4.3 (a) should now be carried out.
4.3.3 Unloading at Customers site

It is desirable for all bulk deliveries that the customer provides an assistant for the driver during the
discharging operations, or that an assistant accompanies the driver.
The following is a typical unloading procedure at the customer`s site:
a) Properly position the bulk truck for unloading and stop engine. The truck cab shall face the exit.
b) Set the hand brake to 'on' position. Place chocks at the wheels of the bulk truck to prevent it from
moving. Set brake interlock.
c) Isolate truck electrics where necessary.
d) Cordon off the area, put safety signages “LPG Unloading in Progress Keep Clear” and deploy fire
extinguishers at convenient nearby location.
e) Ensure there are no naked lights or work where sparks can be generated in the area.
f) Ground or bond the bulk truck.
g) Check quantity of LPG in the customer's storage tank and ensure adequate space is available to
take product from the bulk truck.
h) Hook up the discharge hose from the bulk truck to the inlet of the storage tank. Also hook up the
vapor return line from customer's storage tank to the bulk truck. It is not desirable, and in many
countries not permitted, to use vapor return line at unloading to customers’ tank when this is done
through meters. Vapor return line can only be used where delivery is recorded by using a
weighbridge.

KS 1938-2: 2012
i) Open all the valves to the storage tank, leaving the truck valves closed. Check for leaks.
j) When the absence of any leak is confirmed, open the truck vapor valve followed by the liquid valve,
restart the truck engine and begin discharge operations.
k) Check flow through the delivery meter on bulk truck as well as from rotary gauge on storage tank.
l) Once the desired quantity or level is reached, stop the pumping operations. Shut off the truck
engine.
m) Isolate all valves.
n) Disconnect discharge and vapor hoses.
o) Remove the grounding or earthing connections.
Figure 1 — Diagrammatic layout of typical bulk LPG unloading at

customer site
p) Take the readings of level in the storage tank using rotary gauges as well as quantity discharged
from bulk truck. Ensure the tank has not been overfilled. This is also for reconciliation and billing purposes.
q) Inspect the area again, checking that the storage tank and bulk truck are leak-free.
Remove the chocks from under the wheels of the bulk truck and open the barricade in the area. Discharging
operation of bulk LPG is completed.
Note 1 Do not unload the bulk truck during lightning or rainstorm.
Note 2 The unloading operation shall be fully attended by the bulk truck driver and the customer's representative, when provided, at
all times. The driver shall stop the operation, if he needs to move away from the off-loading point, for any reason, unless accompanied
by a fully trained assistant.
Note 3 As with all bulk LPG transfers, the driver and assistant shall wear protective clothing (safety shoes, helmet, eye protection,
long sleeves, and approved hand gloves).
Ideally, the essential checklist instructions shall be posted on a sign at the customer bulk LPG fill point.
5 Bulk handling for movement by rail

LPG is moved in tank wagons by the railways. These wagons are designed by a competent authority and are
fitted with various devices in accordance with rail wagon specification.
5.1 Facilities
5.1.1 Loading
Each loading point shall consist of the following:
a) A filling line with excess flow check valve and an isolation valve.
b) A vapour line with a check valve and an isolation valve to be connected back to the vessel from
which LPG is drawn.
c) Flexible hoses with break-away couplings to be connected with the filling and the vapour return lines.

KS 1938-2: 2012
d) A check valve to be provided at the end of flexible hose with the filling line.
A typical sketch of loading facility is shown in Annex C.
5.1.2 Unloading
Unloading of LPG from tank wagons shall be done with the help of compressor. The compressor is used to
create a differential pressure between the receiving and discharging vessels by withdrawing vapors from the
receiving vessel and forcing it at high pressure into the discharging vessel thereby establishing a smooth
flow. The content of tank wagons can be ascertained by weighing on weighbridge before and after emptying
or, alternatively, the quantity can be determined based on wagon gauge readings and differential in storage
tank gauge readings before and after receipt, wherever physical weighing is not possible.
5.2 Safety precautions
a) Do not allow the locomotive to come on the weigh bridge due to its capacity limitation.
Sufficient number of dummy wagons may be used to avoid loco coming closer to the gantry.
b) In the event of a leak:
i) Stop the loading pump.
ii) Stop the movement of loco on the adjoining rails.

iii) Switch off all internal combustion engines that may be running in the nearby area.
iv) Stop hot jobs, if any, in the nearby area.
v) Stop all the vehicular traffic in the vicinity.
vi) Start water monitors to form a blanket covering the leak and the wagon/piping from which LPG is
coming out.
vii) Call fire engine with crew to standby till the emergency exits.
viii) Stop all the maintenance jobs in the area.
ix) Depressurise the system before attending to the leak.
x) Take immediate steps to decant the wagon, if the leak is from wagon.
xi) Clear the area of all the people except those who are required to meet the emergency situation.
xii) Cut off power supply in the area where leak is detected.
c) The first operation after positioning the wagon shall be to provide for proper earthing. Earthing shall
be disconnected just before the release of the wagon.
d) For connecting and disconnecting hoses, it is advisable to use non-sparking type of tools.
e) After the wagons are placed on weigh bridge and before the loco is detached, the hand brakes on
each and every wagon should be applied.
f) Like-wise, before the wagons are moved from the weigh bridge, release brakes on all the wagons.
g) Do not use footwear with protruding nails.
h) Ensure that the lower portion of flapper bridge at wagon side is fitted with rubber or wooden padding.
i) Ensure that coir matting/rubber sheet is spread on the platform.

KS 1938-2: 2012
j) Ensure that electrical continuity of the system is intact.
k) Ensure that all fittings on the wagons are checked physically.
l) Hoses should be hydraulically tested at least twice a year (six monthly).
m) Excess flow check valve will stop the flow of LPG in case the flow is in excess due to accidental
rupture of hoses etc. Close the isolation valve at grade level.
n) During the loading/unloading operation, the operator must be present near the wagons.
o) During unloading operation, after the liquid transfer is over, the wagon pressure shall not be reduced
below 1.5 kg/sq.cm. (g) (1.5 bar).
5.3 Operating procedures
a) Loading operation
1) Place the wagon on weigh-bridge taking care to see that all the four wheels are properly
accommodated on the platform. Engage hand brakes and put chokes.
2) Ask loco to move away and exhibit safety signs at suitable distance away from the wagons on both
ends.
3) Switch off loco engine, if parked nearby.
4) Note down wagon numbers and placement time.
5) Take loading advice.
6) Note the time of receipt of advice.
7) Connect earthing lugs to the wagons.
8) Lower the flapper bridge slowly on the wagon.
9) Open the lid of the wagon.
10) Take the tare weight reading and set the pointer of the scale to zero. Compare this with the marked
tare weight on the wagon.
11) Connect the filling hose and vapour return line hose to the wagon. Ensure that the flare connection
valves are closed.
12) Ensure that the header is charged with LPG and the bulk loading pump is running.
13) Open the tanker filling line valve and vapour return line valve.
14) Open the LPG isolation valve, located near the weigh scale.
15) Check the system for leaks.
16) Open the valve on the vapour return line. Now slowly open the valve on the filling line. Increase the
valve opening and gradually open the valve fully.
17) If everything is satisfactory, gradually throttle valve on return line.
18) Keep a check on the weigh scale readings. As soon as it shows the required weight of LPG to be
filled, stop the compressor/pump and close the LPG isolation valve near the weigh scale.
19) Close the wagon filling and vapour return lines valves and also valves on filling and vapour return
lines at the loading point.
KS 1938-2: 2012
20) Recheck final weight and record it. It shall be ensured that final gross weight should not exceed the
permissible axle load of the wagon.
21) Open the valve on flare line connection to both feed line and vapour return line. Thus, the hoses are
depressurised. Then, close the flare line connection valves.
22) Disconnect the filling and vapour return line hose connections from the wagon. Replace and tighten
the plugs on filling and vapour return lines.
23) Close the top cover of the wagon and seal it properly. Remove earthing connections.
24) Prepare the gate pass.
25) Release the hand brake of the wagon.
26) Release all the wagons on the loading points in the lot.
b) Unloading operations
1) Ascertain that the liquid discharge valve and the vapour valve within the tank wagon cover are in the
closed position.
2) Open the port covers in the side of the dome shell, if they exist. Unscrew the plugs in the outlets of the
vapour valve and the liquid valves using a box wrench. This shall be done slowly.
3) If there is any sound of escaping vapour or if there seems to be pressure behind the plugs, the
pressure shall be allowed to relieve itself past the threads before the plugs are entirely disengaged.
4) If the vapour discharge continues or if there is evidence of a liquid discharge, the valves should be
retightened.
5) With the plugs removed, screw pipe nipples into the outlets of the valves after first having applied a
modest quantity of sealant to the male threads, keeping the sealant away from the end of the thread.
Tighten nipples with a pipe wrench.
6) Connect the two liquid transfer unloading swing arms or hoses to the nipples attached to the liquid
discharge valves. Connect the vapour or equalizing swing arm or hose to the nipple attached to the
vapour valve. In most of the cases, these connections will be made by means of either a ground joint
union or a hose coupling.
7) In the event, a ground joint union is used, no gasket will be required. If a hose coupling is employed,
ensure that the appropriate gasket is in place. Make sure that they are secured tightly by appropriate
means.
8) After the vapour and liquid hoses have been connected and before any valve is opened, the valves on
the tank wagon are crack opened in order to apply pressure to the hoses as a test for leaks.
9) If any leak appears, the valve should be immediately closed and corrective measures applied.
10) Recheck the lines and connections to make sure that they are connected correctly.
11) After the liquid and vapour lines have been secured and tested, both liquid reduction valves should be
opened slowly and completely. Then, open all other valves in the liquid line working from the tank wagon
to the storage tank.
12) Open the storage tank filling valve slowly, be careful not to open this valve too fast if the tank wagon
pressure is in excess of the storage tank pressure or the tank wagon excess flow check valves may get
closed.

KS 1938-2: 2012
13) If the tank wagon pressure is higher than that in the storage tank, do not open the valves in vapour line
or operate the compressor. When the rate of liquid flow drops to an unsatisfactory level with the storage
tank filling valve wide open, open the vapour valves between the tank wagon and the storage tank.
14) At this point, make sure that the control valves at the compressor are in a position which allow the
compressor to draw vapours from the storage tank and force it into the tank wagon, then start the
compressor.
15) When the tank wagon is held at a pressure of 2.0 to 2.5 Kg/sq.cm. above the storage tank pressure, the
tank wagon should be emptied into the storage vessel.
16) A flow of gas instead of liquid through the sight-flow glass in the unloading line indicates that the wagon
is empty of liquid. Recheck this by opening the sample valve in the tank wagon dome.
17) When the tank wagon is emptied of all liquid, stop the compressor and close the liquid valves beginning
at the storage tank and progressing to the tank wagon.
18) If the facilities are so arranged that vapours may be removed from the tank wagon, the pipeline at the
compressor should be arranged so that the compressor will draw vapour from the tank wagon and force
it into the storage tank. The sequence of piping line-up during unloading liquid LPG and vapour LPG is
shown in Annexure B.
19) In this operation, the vapour should be discharged below the surface of the liquid in the storage tank to
hasten the liquefaction and, in turn, help prevent excessive pressure in the storage tank.
20) Restart the compressor and when the tank wagon pressure is reduced to about 1.5 - 2.0 kg/ sq.cm., stop
the compressor and close all the valves in the vapour line.
21) After bleeding off the pressure in the hoses, disconnect both the liquid and vapour lines. Replace all the
plugs in the tank wagon valves and the unloading fittings.
22) Recheck sample valve, gauging device and thermometer well to determine that they have been returned
to their original condition and are closed tight. Lower the dome cover carefully and lock it in place with
the locking pin or secure by appropriate means.
23) Remove bonding/ earthing connections.
24) Reverse or remove and replace the "Flammable" placard with "Dangerous - Empty" placard, if
applicable.
25) Remove the "Stop - Tank Wagon Connected" sign and wheel blocks (chokes).
26) Any defect observed in the tank wagon should be noted on the appropriate forms and routed in
accordance with acceptable procedure.
27) Notify the railways in writing about release of wagon and ensure that it is removed from the siding
promptly.
28) Gauge the storage tanks, within the plant, which have received the LPG to determine that the liquid level
is appropriate.
29) In the event of LPG received on weight basis, the tank wagon may require weighing following the
completion of the unloading operation.
5.4 Degassing of sick/leaky tank wagons
a) Recommended procedure
In the degassing system recommended for LPG wagons, vacuum cycle purging technique should be
followed as outlined below:
1) Vessel should be evacuated repeatedly by a vacuum pump.

KS 1938-2: 2012
2) Vapour should be discharged through high rise vent, keeping the steam on.
3) Maximum possible vapours should be sucked out in first step depending on the capacity of vacuum
pump/compressor. Between the two vacuum cycles, nitrogen/inert gas should be used for breaking the
vacuum.
4) Cycle should be repeated until the LPG concentration is found below the end point of LPG (for
butane, it is 4% by volume when purging is done by nitrogen). Periodically, samples should be drawn from
suitable location and analysed for LPG concentration.
5) Finally the vessel should be flushed with air to displace the nitrogen. Barrel should be tested finally
with explosive meter to ensure that hydrocarbon concentration is below 10% of Low Explosive Limit (LEL).
b) Alternate procedure
Alternately, wagons may be degassed by flaring, steaming or filling with water. However, it should be
ensured that wagon is made water free after degassing.
6 Bulk handling for movement by sea
Transportation of LPG in bulk by marine tankers may be carried out under fully-pressurised, semi-
pressurised (semi-refrigerated) or fully refrigerated at atmospheric pressure conditions.
6.1 Pressurised ships
The cargo is carried in a number of cylindrical pressure vessels (or cargo tanks) capable of withstanding the
maximum pressure likely to be met in service (usually 17 bars).
6.2 Semi-refrigerated ships
The pressure of the cargo is very much reduced by lowering its temperature to about 0 0C by the process of
refrigeration and tanks containing the cargo need not be so strong as those of pressurised ships. The tanks
are thermally insulated.
6.3 Fully refrigerated ships
The cargo is carried at atmospheric pressure and the cargo tanks are "box-shaped" as opposed to
cylindrical/ spherical in case of pressurised/semi-refrigerated tankers for better utilisation of ship's space.
Pressure ships usually range from very small capacity to excess of 2,000 M3. capacity. The capacity of semi-
refrigerated ships usually ranges from 1,000 to 15000M3. Fully-refrigerated tankers could be made very
much larger and for any given size, much lighter.
6.4 Cargo carrier design and construction
International Maritime Organization (IMO) code for the construction and equipment of ships carrying liquefied
gases in bulk, covers ships built on or after October 31, 1971. The IMO code for existing ships carrying
liquefied gases in bulk covers ships built before the application date of the new ship code. Put together these
codes are known as the IMO gas codes. The international code for the construction and equipment of ships
carrying liquefied gases in bulk, with the short title of the International Gas Carrier (IGC) code, applies to
ships built on or after July 1, 1981. With its revised and clarified wording, this IGC code includes all the
updated requirements of the previous gas codes for new ships. The IGC code has been incorporated into the
1974 Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention and in 1986 became mandatory for all Flags whose
governments are signatories to the SOLAS Convention.
Some of the factors to be taken into consideration, which affect the design and construction of ships carrying
gas, are:
a) Types of cargo to be carried,

KS 1938-2: 2012
b) Condition of the carriage (i.e. fully pressurised, semi-refrigerated or fully refrigerated),
c) Type of trade, which in turn, determines the degree of cargo handling flexibility required by the
tanker,
d) Terminal facilities available when loading or discharging the vessel,
e) Cargo containment systems (IMO code identifies five different types),
f) Materials of construction (Fully refrigerated LPG cargoes must have tanks capable of withstanding
temperatures down to (-)55 degree C. Alloy steels such as fully killed fine grain carbon manganese steel,
sometimes alloyed with 0.5% Nickel are used.),
g) Tank insulation (for refrigerated cargo),
h) Tanker layout and safety features,
i) Survival capability and tank location,

As specified by IMO codes, gas carriers are required to undergo five different types of survey and have the
certificates of fitness issued or endorsed. The certificate of fitness signifies that a minimum standard of
constructional safety has been achieved. In order for a tanker to comply with code throughout its life time, it
must be subjected to re-inspection to maintain its validity in compliance with Kenya Maritime Authority Act,
rules and regulations.
6.5 Facilities in the tanker
The cargo handling equipments in a tanker usually comprise of:
a) Cargo pumps (submersible and booster),
b) Compressors,
c) Condensers,
d) Heat Exchangers,
e) Vapourisers,
f) Cargo heaters.
The deep well pump supplies liquid to the booster pump to send the product ashore. In pressurised ship,
liquid is withdrawn by pressurising the tank through vapour compression from other tanks. All semi and fully-
refrigerated tankers are provided with cargo heaters to enable the vessels to discharge into pressure storage
ashore and a booster pump if the discharge pressure is significantly above 9 bars. Each cargo tank is
provided with the following equipments:
a) Two cargo pumps, one each on either side of the longitudinal bulk head.
b) Liquid discharge line from the tank dome, connected to the main liquid line.
c) All emergency pump trunk way.
d) A liquid loading line connected to the main liquid line.
e) Two liquid level indicating devices one on each side. These usually consist of a float attached to a
self winding tape which moves up and down, either on guide wires or inside a guide tube. The
liquid level is read off the tape through a gas-tight window at the top of and outside the tank.
f) Two sets of purge lines at the top and bottom of the tank. These are used to distribute inert gas or
vapour for gas-freeing or gassing-up of the cargo tanks.

KS 1938-2: 2012
g) A vapour line for withdrawal of vapour to the compressor.
h) Sample tubes.
6.6 Safety devices
a) At least two safety valves in each cargo tank,
b) High and Low level alarms,
c) Overfill alarm. When actuated, this will shuttle main loading valve and sound an alarm.
However, the design of the tankers with regard to provision of facilities, equipments, accessories and safety
features must be in accordance with the IMO requirements.
The electrical equipments of all gas tankers are subject to the requirements of the Flag Administration, the
Classification Society and of IMO. The certified safe electrical equipment found on gas tankers are;
i) Intrinsically safe;
ii) Flameproof;
iii) Pressurised or purged; and
iv) Increased safety
6.7 Transfer pipework
The following facilities on transfer piping between Terminal and Shore tanks should be provided:
a) ROVs (remotely operated valves) at both the ends of transfer line. (Additional ROV at critical
locations in the pipe line route.)
b) Relief valves on liquid line to surge vessel with an audible alarm system connected to high safe
venting system
c) Physical protection against impact to vent/drain pipes
d) Protection of pipeline against corrosion, particularly when the pipeline passes under public road way,
which is likely to be water-logged
e) Pipe work passing public road way be designed to acceptable public highway authority standard in
terms of roadway axle weights
f) Pipelines should be provided with insulating flanges to avoid pickup of stray currents and possible
sparking from the Jetty to the receipt terminal.
6.8 Terminal facilities
Transfer of LPG from ship to terminal and vice versa is accomplished using hoses or loading arms. If
terminal authorities supply the cargo transfer hoses, it is recommended that NFPA section 59 regulation 4.5
be followed and complied with. However, if the hoses are ship hoses, these should conform to section 5 of
IMO (IGC).
Provision of vapour return facility depends on economics, transfer rates, distance of jetty from storage tanks,
product pressures and temperatures etc.
In case of pressurised gas transfer, it is observed that the pumping rate falls off gradually due to back
pressure of the shore tank. A suitable vapour recovery system or liquefaction of the gas from the receiving
tank is well considered.

KS 1938-2: 2012
6.9 Ancillary equipments
a) These include pipe work, valves, relief valves, rotating equipment (pumps, compressors),
exchangers, instrumentation, gas detection systems etc.
b) Transfer line inerting facilities such as inert gas generation combined with water base foam
generator and pipeline pig system or water storage with corrosion inhibitor chemical dosing transfer
and supply facilities.
c) Nitrogen cylinders with attendant facilities for hose purging/testing and alternate supply to ROVs and
other instruments.
The following agents may be incorporated in terminal fire control system :
i) Water;
ii) Foam;
iii) Dry chemical powder.
6.10 Unloading operations
It is essential that the ship and terminal operators are familiar with the basic characteristics of each other's
facilities, are aware of the precise division of responsibilities and are able to communicate effectively during
the time they are together involved in the joint operation of cargo handling. It is important that the terminal
operators are versed with the current ISGOTT (International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals)
safety guidelines.
6.11 Communication
Reliable and effective communications, irrespective of whether they are directly between the tanker and the
terminal or indirectly via third party, are pre- requisites of safe and efficient cargo operations before the
tanker comes alongside and during the period of cargo operations and until the tanker departs. Terminal
communication should be compatible with tanker's system.
6.12 Pre-cargo transfer discussions
Before any cargo transfer operation is commenced, it is imperative that the intended procedures are
thoroughly discussed and a meeting held between the responsible personnel from the tanker and the
terminal. The purpose of the meeting is primarily to make both sides fully conversant with the characteristics
of the tanker and shore cargo handling systems, the envisaged operational and safety procedures and
requirements and the parameters to be adhered to during the transfer.
The content of the meeting will depend on a wide variety of circumstances but the following broad outlines
form the basis of such meetings:
a) The names and roles of terminal and ship personnel who will be responsible for cargo transfer
operations may be noted.
b) The terminal representatives shall check that pre-arrival instructions to the ship on cargo, cargo
disposition and cargo conditioning have been carried out. They also shall check that all necessary
tanker equipments inspection and tests have been performed.
c) Similarly, the tanker's officers shall satisfy themselves that the relevant terminal equipment and
inspection checks have been carried out satisfactorily.
d) Terminal representatives and customs and/or independent surveyors, where necessary, will be
informed of the cargo tank data e.g. temperature, pressure, whether free of cargo, liquid heel or
arrival dip, composition of tank vapour and quantity of cargo on board.

KS 1938-2: 2012
6.13 Ship/shore safety checklist
Sample checklist for Ship/Shore safety is given in Annex G (also found in ISGOTT)
6.14 Disconnection of hose/ unloading arm
On completion of unloading operation the tanker discharge pipeline need to be purged to push liquid LPG to
the receiving tank. Purging may be done by LPG vapour, inert gas or water as per the design of the system.
However, before disconnecting hoses or unloading arm, it is to be ensured that there is no liquid LPG left
between the tanker main valve and shore isolation valve. Product from this length of pipeline is to be safely
vented.
6.15 Calculating the quantity of liquid on board
Before commencement of tanker discharge operation, tank readings for temperature, pressure liquid levels
etc. are jointly agreed by the shore and Marine tanker representatives. The corrections applied to assess the
quantity of cargo on board are:
a) Trim correction — to make allowance for the liquid level indicating devices not centrally located.
b) Shrinkage factor — for correction of volume at 20 0C

c) Low sounding trim corrections to allow for the wedge shaped volume.
Volume at Corrected
20ºc = Volume X VRF
Quantity at Volume at
20ºc = 20 ºc X Density
at 20 ºc
VRF is ascertained by ASTM-IP Table - 54).

© KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved

Annex A
(informative)
LPG Storage Vessel

KS 1938-2: 2012
17
18
KS 1938-2: 2012
Annex B
(informative)
: General Arrangement of LPG tank lorry


Annex C:
(informative)
A typical LPG transfer system for filling tank truck/wagon)

KS 1938-2: 2012
19
KS 1938-2: 2012
Annex D:
(informative)
Safe filling of LPG vessel
LPG has relatively high coefficient of expansion. If sufficient vapour space is not left in the vessel, pressure
inside the vessel would shoot up rapidly once the vessel becomes liquid full. Hence care is exercised in
limiting the filling of storage vessel to the filling density of LPG. The filling density is defined so as to leave a
guaranteed free space of five percent at the reference temperature of 55ºC. As per static and mobile
pressure vessels (unfired) Rules - 1981, the design pressure of a vessel shall not be less than the vapour
pressure of the gas in the vessel at 55 ºC.
The following information are required to work out the safe filling capacity of a storage vessel.
i) Water capacity of the vessel (WC)

ii) Density of liquid LPG
iii) Filling density (FD)
iv) Ullage factor (U)

WC x U x Density of LPG at 55 ºC
FD = --------------------------------------------------------
WC
= U x Density of LPG at 55ºC
a) Safe maximum quantity of LPG that can be filled by weight – FD x WC
b) Safe maximum quantity of LPG at 15 ºC that can be filled by volume percent of water capacity
FD x 100
= ----------------------------------------
Density of LPG at 15 ºC
c) Safe maximum quantity of LPG at t ºC that can be filled by volume percent of water capacity
FD x 100
= -------------------------------------------
Density of LPG at t ºC
FD x 100
= --- ----------------------------------------
Density of LPG as 15 ºC x VRF
Where,
FD is the filling density
WC is the Water capacity in litres at 15 ºC may be taken as total weight of water in kg.
VRF is the Volume reduction factor for density of LPG at t ºC as per ASTM Table 54.


Annex E:
(informative)
Unloading operations using pressure differential method of liquid transfer

KS 1938-2: 2012
21
22
KS 1938-2: 2012
Annex F:
(informative)
Typical LPG tank wagon

KS 1938-2: 2012
Annex G
(informative)
Liquefied gas-cargo transfer check lisT

(Items to be checked before cargo transfer begins)
SHIP:_________________________________________DATE:______________
PORT &BERTH:_________________________________TIME:______________
1. Has information on cargo and ship shore connection been supplied ?
2. Is the agreed ship-shore communication system operative?
3. Are fire and other emergency procedures agreed ?

4. Are local regulations being observed?
5. Has safe access been provided and warning notices posted?

6. Are moorings secure and agreement reached on the use of tension winches?
7. Are emergency towing-off wires correctly positioned?
8. Is the ship ready to move under its own power?
9. Are smoking restrictions in force and notices posted?
10 Are naked light restrictions being observed?
11 Are portable electrical equipment cables disconnected?
12 Are all hand torches and portable R/T sets of approved type?
13 Are ship's main transmitting aerials and radar switched off and earthed?
14 Some doors and ports have to be closed are they actually shut?
15 Are all air conditioning intakes correctly trimmed and window type units closed?
16 Is the water main ready for immediate use?
17 Is the water spray system ready for immediate use?
18 Are dry powder and all other fire fighting appliances correctly positioned and ready for immediate
use?
19 Is necessary protective clothing available or being worn?
20 Are void spaces properly inerted?
21 Is the required ventilation equipment in operation?
22 Is the cargo system set for the operation?
23 Are all remote control valves in working order?
24 Are cargo tank relief valves correctly set and in good order?

KS 1938-2: 2012
25 Are the required cargo pumps and compressors in good order ?
26 Is reliquefaction or boil-off control equipment in good order ?
27 Is gas detection equipment set for the cargo, calibrated and in good order?
28 Are cargo system gauges and alarms correctly set and in good order?
29 Are scuppers plugged and suitable drip trays in position?
30 Are cargo and bunker hoses in good condition and properly rigged, have certificates being checked?
31 Are unused bunker connections blanked and bunker tank lids closed?
32 Are unused cargo connections (including inert gas line) securely blanked?
33 Are automatic shutdown systems working properly?

34 Does shore know the closing rate of ship's automatic valve at operating temperature does ship have
a similar details of shore system?
35 Are all personnel (including supernumeraries and new arrivals) aware that cargo transfer is to begin
?
36 Have all personnel been allocated emergency stations?
37 Are non-essential personnel clear of the cargo area?
38 Are those directly involved aware of the agreed cargo transfer sequence ?
============================================================================
REMARKS :
We have checked with each other the items on the above check list and have satisfied ourselves that the
entries we have made are correct to the best of our knowledge.
CHECKED BY______________________ _______________________

(For Ship) (For Terminal)

KS 1938-2: 2012
Annex H
Safety related properties of LPG
Parameter Commercial propane Commercial butane
Boiling Point, degrees centigrade - 45 -7

at 1 atmosphere
Vapour pressure, absolute at 15 7.3 2.4
0
C
Limits of flammibility% vol.,H/C in

Air
Upper 10.0 9.0
Lower 2.2 1.8

Gas to liquid volume ratio at 15 0C 255 232
Volumes flammable mixture per

unit volume of liquid 11591 12889
Ignition temperature, ºC. 450-550 420-540
Co-efficient of expansion fraction

/ºC 0.003 0.002
Coefficient of compressibility 2x 10-4 2x 10-4

(liquid), fraction/kg.sq.cm
Gas density, kg/m3 at 15 ºC at 1 2.0 2.5

atmosphere
Liquid density, kg/m3 at 15 ºC at 1 510 580
atmosphere

KENYA BUREAU OF STANDARDS (KEBS)
KEBS is mandated to provide Standardization,
KEBS CERTIFICATION MARKS Metrology and Conformity Assessment Services
through:
1. Product Certification Marks • Promotion of standardization in commerce and industry
• Provision of testing and calibration facilities
KEBS Standardization Mark (S-Mark) is issued
for use on products that comply with the minimum
quality requirements prescribed in Kenya
• Control of the use of standardization marks
standards. It uses standards as a benchmark for
quality compliance and aims at giving
• Undertaking educational work in standardization
manufacturers improved market access and also
giving consumers an assurance of quality for the
• Facilitation of the implementation and practical application of standards
products bearing the mark.

• Maintenance and dissemination of the International System of

Units (SI) of measurements
Standardization Mark
KEBS offers the following services:
SYMBOL FOR PRODUCT QUALITY
• Standards development and harmonization

• Testing services
• Measurement services (Calibration)
• Enforcement of standards
• Product inspection services
Diamond Mark of Quality Import Standardization Mark • Education and Training in Standardization, Metrology and Conformity Assessment
SYMBOL FOR PRODUCT QUALITY EXCELLENCE SYMBOL FOR PRODUCT QUALITY • Product and Management Systems Certification Services
2. Systems Certification Marks

INFORMATION ON STANDARDS
Standards are documents that provide a common reference point for the assess-
ment of the quality of goods and services. Standards facilitate tranparency in the
exchange of products and enhance market access of Kenyan products into local,
regional and international markets.
Information on standards and related documents is available at the KEBS stan-
ISO 9001 REGISTERED FIRM OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY dards information centre.
QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM OHSAS 18001
KEBS houses the WTO-TBT National Enquiry Point (NEP) which disseminates
notification likely to affect international trade to the industry.
KEBS also provides technical advice on installation and improvement of quality
goods and services to the industry so as to facilitate efficient implementation of
standards. Some of the advantages of standards include: enhancement of quality
assurance, safety and environmental protection measures, minimization of wast-
age, reduction of costs and unecessary varieties and promotion of interchange-
ISO 14001 REGISTERED FIRM ISO 22000 REGISTERED FIRM ability and increased productivity in industry.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOOD & SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
For further Information please contact
The Managing Director Tel.: +254 (0) 20 6948000

Kenya Bureau of Standards Fax: +254 (0) 20 604031
Popo Road, Off Mombasa Road E-Mail: info@kebs.org
P.O. Box 54974 - 00200 E-Mail: customercare@kebs.org
NAIROBI, KENYA Website: http://www.kebs.org

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and sea — Code of practice

First Edition 2012

REVISION OF KENYA STANDARDS

© Kenya Bureau of Standards, 2012

ii © KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved

Transportation of LPG in bulk by road, rail

and sea — Code of practice

KENYA BUREAU OF STANDARDS (KEBS)

Coast Region Lake Region Rift Valley Region

© KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved iii

iv © KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved

Transportation of LPG in bulk by road, rail and sea — Code of practice

KS 91, Liquefied petroleum gas mixtures.

KS 1426, Product Colour coding

KS 2223, LPG road tankers — Inspection and testing

SABS 691, Commercial propane.

ASME B31, Piping and piping systems.

BS 3351, Piping systems for petroleum refineries and petrochemical plants.

IP 250, Petroleum measurement tables based on a reference temperature of 20 ºC.

ISO 3874, Series 1 freight containers — Handling and securing.

© KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved 1

within the jurisdiction of the Kenya Railways

the Kenya Railways administration

the Director of Weights and Measures

2 © KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved

4 Bulk handling for movement by road

Each loading station shall consist of the following:

pump is drawing LPG.

e) A check valve shall be provided in the vapour return line.

A typical sketch of loading facilities is shown in Annex C.

a) Vapour line with isolation valves

b) Product transfer line with isolation valves

c) Weigh bridge of suitable capacity

A typical sketch of unloading facilities is shown in Annex-E.

4.2 Safety precautions

© KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved 3

k) No repairs shall be made on the truck while it is in the loading area.

under the Item 4.5 "Commissioning and Decommissioning".

o) Filling/transfer operations should be stopped immediately in the event of -

i) Uncontrolled leakage occurring

ii) A fire occurring in the vicinity

iii) Lightning and thunder storm

4.3 Procedures for operation

4.3.1 Loading operations

i) Two safety valves are provided on the vessel.

ii) Fixed tube gauge is provided.

iii) Excess flow valve is provided.

iv) Pressure gauge is provided.

v) Temperature gauge is provided.

vi) Fire screen between cabin and vessel is provided.

vii) 2 Nos. of 10 kg DCP Fire Extinguishers are provided.

viii) Spark arrestors of approved quality are fitted.

ix) No leakage in exhaust silencer pipe exists.

4 © KEBS 2012 — All rights reserved

x) Manufacturer's name plate with date of testing is fitted on the vessel.

xi) Valid explosive licence is available.

xii) Approved drawings of vessel are available.