These cylinders are identified by clear/unbranded seals or no seals at all on the valves and are being supplied like that by unauthorised dealers, who do not have permission to do so from the cylinder-owner.
These cylinders are often underfilled and violate the Trade Metrology Act. Alternatively, the cylinders are overfilled and pose a threat to the public and workers in terms of Occupational Health and Safety. All commercial exchange cylinders are marked “never sold” and are provided on a deposit/exchange basis. For safety reasons these cylinders can only be filled with permission from the commercial brand owners. Legally filled LP Gas Cylinders are identified by a branded seal on the valve which matches the brand of the cylinder. In addition to this, we request that your supplier provides you with written confirmation that they are authorised by the brand owner to supply you with the LP Gas cylinders.
Should you be in possession of or sell an illegally filled LP Gas cylinder, you will be breaking the law and also participating in the proceeds of unlawful activities.
Section 6 of The Prevention of Organised Crime Act, 1998, states the following:-
Acquisition, Possession or Use of Proceeds of Unlawful Activities:
Any person who – a) acquires; b) uses; or c) has possession of property and who knows, or ought reasonably to have known, that it is or forms part of the proceeds of unlawful activities of another person, shall be guilty of an offence.
LP Gas is an exceptional form of energy, but must be handled as safely as possible. Unlawful activities, such as the illegal filling and the sale of LP Gas cylinders, are detrimental to public safety and consumer rights. Ensure that your supplier is authorised and the LP Gas cylinders you sell have been legally filled in terms of the requirements of the Occupational Health & Safety Act, Pressure Equipment Regulations. Should you require further clarification, contact the LPGas Safety Association of South Africa on; (011) 886 9702 or via e-mail at; info@lpgas.co.za.
Source: vaalweekblad.com