Consumers can expect to see new labels on LP gas cylinders to help them make a safe connection to barbecues and other appliances.
Following an order by Building and Energy, gas cylinder retailers must now include information on the collars of individual LP gas cylinders between 3.7kg and 9kg to identify the valve type.
Cylinders with traditional Type 21 POL valves are still in use, but they are being phased out in favour of a safer design called LCC27.
All new leisure gas appliances sold in the past three years, such as barbecues and patio heaters, are only compatible with LCC27 cylinder valves. Attempts to connect appliances with LCC27 connectors to older POL cylinders have led to serious injuries from gas leaks and fires.
Since June 2025, retailers have been required to display signage about valve types on cylinder cages and other storage areas.
Building and Energy will begin inspections in September at cylinder retailer outlets to ensure compliance with signage and labelling requirements.
“Our gas inspectors will be checking that site safety signage is in place and compliant labels are fixed to cylinder collars,” said Building and Energy Executive Director Daniel Kearney.
“Retail outlets that sell or hire LP gas cylinders are advised to fully comply with all labelling rules to help consumers choose the right cylinder type for a safe connection.”
Non-compliance may result in formal warnings or infringements ranging from $1,000 for individuals to $5,000 for companies.
Consumers buying barbecues and other gas appliances are urged to check which LP gas cylinder they should connect to. Older appliances with POL connections can be used with either LCC27 or POL cylinder types.
Mr Kearney said the LCC27 design includes important safety features.
“A gas-tight connection is required before the gas will flow, which reduces the risk of gas escaping if the cylinder valve is opened or disconnected,” he said.
“The appliance connection point also has a thermal shut-off function to stop the gas supply if a certain temperature is reached in the event of a fire.
“Do not use an adaptor to try to connect your appliance to an incompatible gas cylinder. These adaptors are unsafe and prohibited. LP gas cylinders have a 10-year test cycle, so Type 21 POL valves will eventually be phased out.”
Further information on LP gas cylinder safety and the new signage and labelling requirements, visit the Building and Energy website.
<ENDS>
Media contact: BEmedia@lgirs.wa.gov.au
Images: Signage and labels to show compatibility between gas appliances and cylinders.
Print this page
