GUIDANCE NOTE 41

SEPARATION DISTANCES IN THE

GASES INDUSTRY
2020
 GUIDANCE NOTE 41

SEPARATION DISTANCES IN THE GASES INDUSTRY

2020

Copyright © 2020 by British Compressed Gases

Association. First printed 2020. All rights reserved. No
part of this publications may be reproduced without the
express permission of the publisher:

BRITISH COMPRESSED GASES ASSOCIATION

Registered office: 4a Mallard Way, Pride Park, Derby, UK. DE24 8GX
Company Number: 71798, England

Website:
www.bcga.co.uk

ISSN 2398-936X

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 PREFACE

The British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA) was established in

l971, formed out of the British Acetylene Association, which existed
since l901. BCGA members include gas producers, suppliers of gas
handling equipment and users operating in the compressed gas field.

The main objectives of the Association are to further technology, to

promote safe practice and to prioritise environmental protection in the
supply, use, storage, transportation and handling of industrial, food and
medical gases, and we produce a host of publications to this end.
BCGA also provides advice and makes representations on behalf of its
Members to regulatory bodies, including the UK Government.

Policy is determined by a Council elected from Member Companies,

with detailed technical studies being undertaken by a Technical
Committee and its specialist Sub-Committees appointed for this
purpose.

BCGA makes strenuous efforts to ensure the accuracy and current

relevance of its publications, which are intended for use by technically
competent persons. However, this does not remove the need for
technical and managerial judgement in practical situations. Nor do they
confer any immunity or exemption from relevant legal requirements,
including by-laws.

For the assistance of users, references are given, either in the text or
Appendices, to publications such as British, European and International
Standards and Codes of Practice, and current legislation that may be
applicable but no representation or warranty can be given that these
references are complete or current.

BCGA publications are reviewed, and revised if necessary, at five-

yearly intervals, or sooner where the need is recognised. Readers are
advised to check the Association’s website to ensure that the copy in
their possession is the current version.

This document has been prepared by BCGA Technical Sub-Committee

6. It was approved for publication at BCGA Technical Committee 162.
This document was first published on 03/08/2020. For comments on
this document contact the Association via the website www.bcga.co.uk.

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 CONTENTS

Section Page
TERMINOLOGY AND DEFINITIONS 1

1. INTRODUCTION 2

2. SCOPE 2

3. SEPARATION DISTANCES 2

4. SPECIFIC GAS HAZARDS 4

4.1 Pressure release 5
4.2 Asphyxiation 5
4.3 Flammability 6
4.4 Oxygen enrichment 6
4.5 Intoxication 7
4.6 Extreme cold 7
4.7 Toxicity 9
4.8 Corrosivity 9

5. EXTERNAL HAZARDS RELEVANT TO AN 9

INSTALLATION
5.1 Fire risk 10
5.2 Physical impact 12
5.3 Local and site specific hazards 12

6. THE MEASUREMENT OF SEPARATION DISTANCES 13

7. REQUIREMENT FOR PERIODIC REVIEW 15

8. MINIMUM RECOMMENDED SEPARATION DISTANCES 15

9. SECURITY 16

10. REFERENCES * 16

APPENDICES:
Appendix 1 Separation distances – BCGA CP 4 19
Appendix 2 Separation distances – BCGA CP 6 22
Appendix 3 Separation distances – BCGA CP 18 23
Appendix 4 Separation distances – BCGA CP 20 24
Appendix 5 Separation distances – BCGA CP 22 28
Appendix 6 Separation distances – BCGA CP 26 29
Appendix 7 Separation distances – BCGA CP 27 33
Appendix 8 Separation distances – BCGA CP 33 36
Appendix 9 Separation distances – BCGA CP 36 37
Appendix 10 Separation distances – BCGA CP 41 45
Appendix 11 Separation distances – BCGA CP 44 47
Appendix 12 Separation distances – BCGA CP 46 54

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
* Throughout this publication the numbers in [ ] brackets refer to references in Section 10.
Documents referenced are the edition current at the time of publication, unless otherwise
stated.

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 TERMINOLOGY AND DEFINITIONS

Frostbite Freezing of living tissue; frostbite occurs whenever heat loss from a tissue
is sufficient to permit ice formation. The freezing-thawing process causes
mechanical damage to cells (from ice), tissue dehydration, and local
oxygen depletion. If not relieved, these conditions lead to disruption of the
blood corpuscles, thrombosis (clotting) within the small blood vessels, and
gangrene.

Hypothermia A drop in body temperature below 35 °C. Normal human body

temperature is approximately 37 °C. Signs and symptoms vary depending
on the degree of hypothermia, and may be divided by the three stages of
severity, i.e. mild, moderate and severe. Without treatment, it can be fatal.

May Indicates an option available to the user of this Guidance Note.

Receptor A person, object (equipment) or a sensitive environment that could be

affected (by a hazard source).

Separation Within this document, a separation distance is the minimum recommended

distance separation between a hazard source and a receptor. The separation
distance, when used alongside the requirements of health and safety law
and the appropriate BCGA document, is adequate to help mitigate the
effect of the most commonly foreseeable gas industry hazards, in the
absence of a specific risk assessment.

Shall Indicates a mandatory requirement for compliance with this Guidance Note
and may also indicate a mandatory requirement within UK law.

Should Indicates a preferred requirement but is not mandatory for compliance with
this Guidance Note.

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 GUIDANCE NOTE 41
SEPARATION DISTANCES IN THE GASES INDUSTRY

1. INTRODUCTION

British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA) documents, published international standards

other industry codes of practice and government bodies specify various distances in the
interests of good health and safety management. This can lead to confusion as to the purpose
of the ‘distance’ and the action that may be required in response.

The types of distances quoted include: safety, separation, hazardous area zone, no harm, etc.

This document concerns only separation distances.

These distances have, in many cases, been developed through historical industry custom and
practice. Typically, the distances have sought to protect installations and external features
from numerous hazards and in both directions. The hazards considered extend beyond those
hazards associated with leakage from an installation. For some of these distances the rationale
for their quantification is lost in time, however, there is no evidence to suggest that these
distances are inadequate, but there is much anecdotal evidence to suggest that they are
satisfactory.

This Guidance Note discusses the various types of distances that have been published in
BCGA documents, and provides guidance for their implementation.

2. SCOPE

This document is to clarify BCGA’s meaning of, and recommendations for, separation
distances.

Alternative methodologies should be applied where specific requirements or circumstances

apply. Alternative methodologies may be obtained from, for example, legislation, industry
documents or via a first-principles risk assessment.

3. SEPARATION DISTANCES

A separation distance is a set distance that defines the physical separation requirement
between a hazard and specific commonly encountered receptor(s), in generally encountered
circumstances. A separation distance helps by disrupting the pathway between the hazard
source and the potential receptor. Separation distances on their own cannot fully manage
safety. Instead, they are intended to be part of a suite of comprehensive controls used to
manage all aspects of health and safety on a particular site.

Separation distances aim to enhance safety in two directions:

 between multiple hazards existing within the installation;

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
  by protecting external receptors from hazards arising from the installation;

 by protecting the installation from external hazard sources.

Where there is a specific need to separate people from a hazard, appropriate controls shall be
used, these may be determined by the site workplace risk assessment, for example, through
the use of physical barriers, fences, etc.

The safety margin provided by a separation distance may help prevent small incidents from
escalating, i.e. preventing the so-called domino effect.

All work places require a Fire Safety Risk Assessment in accordance with the Regulatory
Reform (Fire Safety) Order [3]. Adequate separation distances will assist in managing general
fire hazards. Refer to Section 5.1.

A hazard which separation distances incidentally help to manage is that of mechanical

deterioration. Access for visual inspection (i.e. appropriate clearance between items of
equipment) enables access for viewing. When accompanied by a structured inspection
programme and suitably competent inspectors, this assists greatly with the verification of
integrity. Such inspections may also assist with other aspects of hazard management, such as
housekeeping standards, build-up of detritus or combustible items, effects of vermin,
condition of pressure relief arrangements, location of access inspection equipment (ladders,
mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP), scaffolding, etc.), space for emergency egress and
evacuation, etc. When managing the integrity of pressurised equipment in service, refer to
BCGA CP 39 [19], In-service requirements of pressure equipment (gas storage and gas
distribution systems).

A separation distance is not:

 an automatically applicable granting of ‘safety’ status through maintaining a

specific distance from a hazard or a receptor;

 a replacement or alternative to the Dangerous Substances and Explosive

Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) [2] and/or the Equipment and Protective Systems
Intended for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (EPS) [4] for a
‘hazardous area zone’ or other regulatory requirement;

 defined separation from all possible receptors and / or all possible hazards;

 a guarantee that one aspect of an installation or locality cannot adversely interact

with another;

 justification to dismiss the requirement for risk assessment;

 a ‘safe’ distance, zone or extent;

 a ‘no harm’ distance, zone or extent;

 a ‘hazard’ distance, zone or extent;

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
  a ‘blast’ distance, zone or extent (for example, for the purposes of Hazardous
Substances Consent);

 a recommendation for an exclusion or evacuation extent or cordon.

BCGA recommend minimum separation distances which are based on generic historically-
proven custom and practice.

If the BCGA recommendations are not followed, users shall conduct a specific risk
assessment that is suitable and sufficient, to determine bespoke separation distances. The
assessment shall take account of the hazards identified in this Guidance Note, and the specific
quantities of gases concerned. For bespoke risk assessments, start from first principles and
refer to European Industrial Gases Association (EIGA) documents, as appropriate:

 EIGA 75 [8], Determination of safety distances;

 EIGA 189 [9], The calculation of harm and no-harm distances for the storage and
use of toxic gases in transportable containers.

Other types of distances may be defined as:

 Safety distance
A commonly-used but ill-defined description for any distance or gap which is believed
to be sufficient to minimise the likelihood of causing harm. This term tends to be used
mainly for people. This terminology is no longer used within (and is being removed
from) BCGA documents.

 Hazardous area
Hazardous areas are defined in DSEAR [2] as "a place in which an explosive atmosphere
may occur in such quantities as to require special precautions to protect the health and
safety of workers" Further clarification is provided by the Health and Safety Executive
(HSE) at https://www.hse.gov.uk/comah/sragtech/techmeasareaclas.htm

4. SPECIFIC GAS HAZARDS

The full range of hazards on any particular site will require consideration during the general
workplace risk assessment, carried out to satisfy the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act [1] and
any other relevant legislation. Hazards shall be managed by applying the appropriate
hierarchy of control, considering alternatives, appropriate design standards, manufacturing /
installation standards, methods of operation, inspection, examination and maintenance,
personnel competence, etc., as well as separation distances. The following gas-specific
hazards should be considered:

 pressure, refer to Section 4.1;

 asphyxiation, refer to Section 4.2;

 flammability, refer to Section 4.3;

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
  oxygen enrichment, refer to Section 4.4;

 intoxication, refer to Section 4.5;

 extreme cold, refer to Section 4.6;

 toxicity, refer to Section 4.7;

 corrosivity, refer to Section 4.8.

Each individual gas will have specific properties which may produce multiple hazards, all of
which shall be taken into account.

4.1 Pressure release

This hazard is usually considered in the sense of the release of stored energy as a
function of pressure from within the gas system under consideration, impacting on
external receptors. However, there may be cases where an adjacent system or feature
might result in a pressure release onto, or affecting, the gas system under consideration.
The creation of projectiles due to catastrophic failure will not be fully catered for by
separation distances.

Pressure release may result from normal operation or as a result of abnormal operation
or events.

Pressure (and vacuum) will dissipate when exposed to free atmosphere. A separation
distance will consequently have an effect of hazard reduction, if the receptor is outside
of the set distance. However, the effectiveness of this hazard control will depend upon
a number of variable factors, for example, the actual pressure(s) involved, the release
(orifice) size and duration, the presence of any temporary receptors and of any collateral
effects. Indeed, unless an exact mode of failure is modelled, this is an extremely
difficult aspect to estimate.

4.2 Asphyxiation
Asphyxiation is the process of being deprived of oxygen. Oxygen is the only gas that
supports life. The normal concentration of oxygen in air is approximately 21 %. Any
reduction below 21 % can result in unconsciousness or death.

The release of any gas, other than air and oxygen, will displace the existing local
atmosphere which will in turn reduce the volume of oxygen available to breathe. If the
oxygen concentration in the local atmosphere decreases there is an increased risk of
asphyxiation. For further information, refer to BCGA GN 11 [24], The management of
risk when using gases in enclosed spaces.

Local concentrations including ‘clouds’ of escaped, leaked or vented gas, may create
oxygen-depleted atmospheres. Gases (including liquefied gases) which enter drains,
gulleys, trenches, etc., may be conveyed to locations remote from the installation. For
this reason, a separation distance is often recommended between the installation (and
its fill / delivery–points, vent devices, etc.) and drains, gulleys and trenches. This is in
addition to more obvious features such as nearby windows, air intakes and doorways
which might allow gas entry into buildings, confined spaces and / or other locations

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 where asphyxiation hazards could be created. Places where persons may congregate
are a particular concern.

A separation distance gives gas(es) a chance to disperse in the atmosphere. This is

through natural attenuation promoted by the free air which is notionally considered to
occupy the ‘separation’ distance.

4.3 Flammability
Flammable gases can combust and may explode if they are ignited. Flammable gases
react or combust with oxidising gases, although some gases may not require external
oxidizing assistance or ignition sources. The propensity for a flammable gas to ignite
partly depends on its flammability range. Refer to BCGA GN 11 [24].

The release of a flammable gas may result in a flammable atmosphere. If combined

with a source of ignition, this could result in a fire or explosion. Refer to Section 5 for
examples of external sources of ignition.

All compressed gas installations shall be managed in accordance with DSEAR [2], EPS
[4]
, etc., with specific requirements applying to flammable substances. The DSEAR [2]
risk assessment for flammable substances quantifies hazardous area zones based on
more-or-less justifiable assumptions (such as a gas release through a known hole size),
but these zones are created specifically for this one hazard. Specific requirements apply
to any equipment present within a DSEAR [2] hazardous area (for example, to prevent
ignition).

NOTE: A DSEAR [2] risk assessment will not address all applicable hazards
associated with a flammable gas installation (for example, pressure, asphyxiation, etc.)
and additional controls and separation distances are required.

Site operators may declare an extended DSEAR [2] hazardous area, beyond the
calculated hazard extent, for convenience of management. This may bring the zone
more into line with other separation distances. The site operator may then select the
greatest extent for the purposes of hazard management.

A separation distance will generally assist in fire risk management, for example, in
mitigating the escalation effect and spread of a fire, including through jet-flame
impingement or radiated heat. Linked to this is the possible introduction of sources of
ignition (for example, through electrical devices, sparks, etc.) potentially introduced by
vehicles, plant, etc., which can be separated from an installation.

4.4 Oxygen enrichment

The normal concentration of oxygen in the air is approximately 21 %. However, oxygen
enrichment of the atmosphere, even by a few percent, considerably increases the risk of
fire: it increases the rate of propagation and intensity of a fire or explosion and allows
items to burn which would not be combustible in a normal atmosphere. Concentrations
of oxygen above 23.5 % should be avoided, refer to BCGA GN 11 [24], Section 5.3.4.

A separation distance helps prevent oxygen enriched atmospheres. In turn, this helps
reduce the risk of fire and explosion. This includes by separating incompatible

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 substances from installations containing oxidants, such as hydrocarbons, oils and
greases, bitumen-based road surfaces, etc.

A separation distance gives oxidant gas(es) a chance to disperse in the atmosphere. This
is through natural attenuation promoted by the free air which is notionally considered
to occupy the ‘separation’ distance.

4.5 Intoxication
Some gases may have an intoxicating effect which may affect an individual’s memory,
thinking, speech and coordination. The intoxicating effect typically occurs at low
concentrations, but note that at higher concentrations, asphyxiation may result, refer to
BCGA GN 11 [24], Section 5.3.2. For toxic gases refer to Section 4.7.

Intoxication usually occurs independently of the effects of oxygen deficiency (i.e.

asphyxiation) therefore the oxygen content in the air is not an effective indication of the
danger of intoxication.

Intoxicating gases include carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, etc.

A separation distance gives intoxicant gas(es) a chance to disperse in the atmosphere.

This is through natural attenuation promoted by the free air which is notionally
considered to occupy the ‘separation’ distance.

4.6 Extreme cold

Refrigerated, cryogenic and some liquefied gases are held at low temperature which
may be approaching absolute zero (for example, liquid helium at around -269 °C / 4 K,
liquid nitrogen at around -196 °C / 77 K). Most compressed gases will auto-refrigerate
if they are expanded to a lower pressure.

Insulated storage tanks and pipes generally provide protection from direct cold contact,
although vaporisers, exposed pipe lengths, valves, etc., may still be extremely cold.

The significant effects on people, include:

 Cold burns. Inadequately protected skin in contact with cold surfaces may
result in cold burns. In addition, skin may adhere to cold surfaces, causing tissue
damage when removed from that surface.

 Cold damage to eyes. Eyes can be severely damaged, for example, through
contact with splashing cryogenic liquid.

 Cold damage to lungs. Prolonged breathing of extremely cold atmospheres,

for example, cold air around ambient vaporisers, may damage the lungs.

 Frostbite. Severe or prolonged exposure to cold vapours and gases can

cause frostbite.

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
  Hypothermia. Low environmental temperatures can cause hypothermia.
Susceptibility to hypothermia depends on the length of exposure, the temperature
and on the individual. Older persons are more likely to be affected.

The extreme cold can also affect materials, including materials of construction. Cold
embrittlement can have an effect on specific materials, on or near to the installation, for
example, some steels, and this can have an effect on structural integrity. Low
temperatures may result in structural failure in some cases. The cold may foreseeably
be encountered on most cryogenic gas installations, for example, due to leaks, vents, ice
build-up, proximity, etc.

Mechanical properties of materials will change with increase and decrease of

temperature. Localised cooling may also induce high thermal stresses that can result in
failure of materials that would otherwise be considered safe for operation at low
temperature. Designers and users should understand these properties and the effect of
temperature range and variation upon them.

Separation distances act to mitigate this hazard by allowing ambient air to circulate and
hence raise the local temperature. The separation distance also helps to keep a set
distance between extreme cold and the receptors (for example, people or materials) that
might otherwise be adversely affected. This also applies to the secondary effects of
cold.

Secondary effects of cold

There are a number of secondary effects that should be considered in the event of a gas
release through, for example, vents, leaks and loss of containment. These typically
include:

 Vapour clouds. Vapour clouds may result from product release or from
draught from ambient vaporisers. The extent of the vapour cloud will depend on
the quantity of vapour and on the local climatic conditions (for example, humidity,
which will allow cold gases to cause atmospheric moisture to condense).
Visibility can be severely hampered, resulting in significant safety hazards from
a loss of visibility. Alarm and disorientation of those affected may result,
including an increased likelihood of slips trips and falls for those working nearby.
Others affected may include vehicle drivers. Vapour clouds may obscure safety
signage and other safety information and instructions, etc., creating hazards. The
effect of vapour clouds can be particularly problematic when combined with other
simultaneous events such as emergency evacuations.

Where specific activities take place that will create a significant vapour cloud, for
example, venting the contents of a tank, this shall be a managed activity with
temporary control measures put in place. This may include temporarily increased
separation distances.

Liquid carbon dioxide, if released to atmosphere can produce a snow-like effect,

which may have a longer-lasting effect than an air-gas vapour cloud.

 Oxygen run-off. A specific phenomenon which applies to those cryogenic

gases with a lower boiling point than oxygen (i.e. nitrogen, helium and hydrogen)

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 and where air comes into contact with uninsulated or poorly insulated pipes and
components. Streams of liquid air, enriched with oxygen can form, through
differential condensing of atmospheric air, resulting in changes to the local
atmosphere having a higher oxygen content. This increases the fire risk, refer to
Section 4.4. The phenomenon may occur even where ostensibly inert-only
substances are expected to be present by design, such as nitrogen or helium.

 Temperature differentials. Local temperature differentials may adversely

affect electrical, instrumentation, control and other equipment.

 Spalling. Repeated localised freezing and thawing can cause the break-up
of concrete, wood or foam supports, reducing mechanical integrity or the break-
up of thermal insulation and the protection it offers.

4.7 Toxicity
Some gases may have an intoxicating effect, refer to Section 4.5.

A release of a toxic gas can cause harm to people even at low levels of concentration.
A separation distance mitigates in exactly the same way as for asphyxiation, i.e. it
provides a specific volume of ambient air through which toxic gases may disperse. For
further information on the toxicity of gases refer to BCGA GN 11 [24].

4.8 Corrosivity
A release of corrosive gas can cause harm to people even at low levels of concentration,
and as a secondary effect may cause structural damage reducing integrity of structures,
materials, pressure containers and pipes in adjacent equipment. A separation distance
mitigates in the same way as for other gas hazards by providing a path for free air
dispersal. The separation distance also helps to keep a set distance between corrosive
gases and the receptors (materials or building entry points where people may be present)
that might otherwise be adversely affected.

DSEAR [2] places a formal requirement on employers to assess the risks for corrosive
substances and to put in place suitable control and mitigation measures. Refer to BCGA
GN 13 [25]. DSEAR Risk Assessment.

5. EXTERNAL HAZARDS RELEVANT TO AN INSTALLATION

In addition to specific gas hazards identified in Section 4, designers and users should consider
other relevant externally-originated hazards, which may have an adverse effect on safety and
on the gas installation. These include:

 fire risk, refer to Section 5.1;

 impact damage, refer to Section 5.2;

 local and site specific hazards (for example, from neighbours), refer to Section
5.3.

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 5.1 Fire risk
Fire is a major concern for many gas installations. The principle concerns are:

 a fire may affect the integrity of the gas storage and distribution system,
resulting in further hazards and potentially leading to pressure system or structural
catastrophic failure;

 flammable substances may act as a fuel for the fire, for example where these
flammable substances are part of the gas installation (i.e. flammable gases) or are
nearby;

 oxidising substances may contribute to the speed, severity and extent of a

fire, for example where oxidizing substances are part of the gas installation (i.e.
oxidising gases) or are nearby.

Refer to BCGA GN 11 [24].

All work places require a Fire Safety Risk Assessment in accordance with the
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order [3]. Adequate separation distances will assist in
managing general fire hazards.

NOTE: The heat from a fire will drive the evaporation process, especially by
vaporising liquefied and cryogenic gases, which may cause a sudden escalation of a fire
in the case of flammable or oxidising gases.

For a fire to start, an ignition source, a fuel and an oxidant must be available. Oxidants
are generally readily available due to the presence of air, and in some cases due to the
additional availability of quantities of oxygen or other oxidant substances. Sources of
ignition and fuels require appropriate management, including through the application of
gas industry separation distances.

Sources of ignition include:

 open or naked flames, including heaters and boilers;

 smoking, including electronic ‘e-cigarettes’;

 electrical and electronic devices;

 electrical production and distribution plant and equipment, for example,

electrical sub-stations, switchgear, conductors, etc., (all voltage ranges low (LV),
medium (MV) and high (HV));

 overhead and other power lines;

 underground services;

 vehicles;

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
  processes, plant, machinery and equipment;

 maintenance and construction activities, such as, hot work, welding etc.;

 static electricity build-up, lightning.

Sources of fuel include:

 bulk flammable gas storage, including liquefied petroleum gas (LPG);

 bulk flammable liquid storage, including diesel, heating oil, etc.;

 fuel gas vent pipes;

 flammable gas cylinders, including bundles, multiple element gas

containers (MEGC), battery vehicles, etc.;

 natural gas services and supplies;

 combustible products, accumulations and buildings;

 leak paths, such as, flanges, unions, etc. from flammable gas pipes;

 vehicles;

 vegetation.

Separation distances may serve to:

 separate an external fuel or fuel source from a gas installation;

 separate a source of ignition from a gas installation;

 separate a sensitive receptor from a potential fire on a flammable gas

installation (for example, the general public, HV electrics, neighbours, vehicle
fuel tanks, etc.);

 separate a sensitive receptor from the potential effects of a fire impacting

on a gas installation (for example, an environmental impact due to loss of
containment);

 separate combustible materials from a gas installation;

 provide space to evacuate the area or site in an emergency;

 provide space to assist radiation, convection etc. to dissipate heat in the

event of fire;

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
  provides space for free ventilation, serving a number of purposes which may
help prevent a fire or mitigate its affect;

 provide space for inspection and maintenance to enable an appropriate

safety inspection regime to take place.

5.2 Physical impact

External physical impact is a concern for gas installations. The principle concerns are:

 impact may affect the integrity of the gas storage and distribution system,
resulting in further hazards and potentially leading to pressure system malfunction
or catastrophic failure;

 any gas installation which includes flammable or oxidising substances (or

both) may be susceptible to fire, refer to Section 5.1.

Separation distances may serve to:

 provide a buffer zone to mitigate risks from external potential impacts, for
example:

o on site vehicles, including cars, vans, fork lift trucks (FLT), etc.;

o processes, plant, machinery and equipment;

o cranes and lifting gear;

o some maintenance and construction activities;

o public roads and railways;

o vandalism, malicious acts, etc.;

o activities of nearby members of the public.

 separate the installation from a potentially damaging natural event, for

example, lightning strike, flood, seismic event, high winds, ground movement,
etc.;

 mitigate the effects from a leakage of substances, for example, corrosives,

etc.

5.3 Local and site specific hazards

Local and site specific hazards may exist or may be created on-site or may originate
from neighbours. They include:

 release of a product or substance, for example, a corrosive product;

 operational or construction activities;

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
  domino effects from incidents at nearby premises;

 proximity of services; surface, overhead and underground;

 fuel gas vent pipes;

 machinery air intakes and exhausts;

 intakes into air conditioning systems;

 process equipment hazards, including:

o heat, air-flows / gas-flows, exhausts, fumes, sparks and vibration from

normal operation, etc.;

o failure modes of equipment, for example, sparks, projectiles, heat or

cold, vibration, etc.;

o the effect of substances associated with the equipment, for example,

oils, coolants, toxic or corrosive substances, etc.;

o maintenance activities and access;

o hazards associated with electrical, hydro-pneumatic (or other power),

signal cables, instrumentation cables, controls, water, wastewater or other
services, etc.

Separation distances serve to:

 provide a buffer zone to mitigate risks from external potential hazards;

 keep corrosive or otherwise damaging substances away from gas

infrastructure;

 enable potentially hazardous atmospheres to disperse.

6. THE MEASUREMENT OF SEPARATION DISTANCES

Separation distances are measured between the hazard source and the receptor. Depending
on the circumstances, hazard sources and receptors may be interchangeable.

Distances shall be measured to their nearest point, i.e. the closest point to the hazard source
or receptor.

When measuring to or from a gas system, the separation shall be measured from the nearest
of the following:

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
  the outer body of the gas container, for example, the tank outer jacket, bundle or
cylinder; or

 any point on the storage system where in normal operation leakage or spillage can
occur, for example, a connection, hose couplings (including those on extended fill
lines), vents, trycocks, pressure relief and pressure control discharge points, etc.; or

 potential leak paths, for example, non-permanent joints as defined in BCGA CP

4 [10], Gas supply and distribution systems (excluding acetylene).

A gas store or compound in itself is not a hazard source or a receptor. The hazard source or
receptor is the storage system or containers that are within the gas store. However, for
convenience of measuring separation distances, some operators may choose to use the
boundary of the store as the point from which to measure the separation distances. This
approach becomes less sustainable the larger the store. For a well-managed store, it may be
possible to measure the separation distance directly to or from the inventory.

Separation distances shall be considered to operate in all directions, horizontally, vertically,

diagonally, etc.

Where there are space constraints, a permanent physical partition may be used to help achieve
the required separation distances. The height of the partition should be relevant to the hazard,
and should take into account the properties of the gases being separated. It should be not less
than 2 metres high, unless for non-fire hazards a lower partition can be justified through risk
assessment. The required minimum recommended separation distance may include the length
of the sides of the partition (by determining the sum of A + B + C) as shown in Figure 1,
however, consider the potential flow ‘up and over’ or ‘round the corner’. Such partitions
should be imperforate and constructed of suitable materials, for example, masonry or
concrete. Where protecting against fire hazards the partition(s) should be constructed to
achieve at least 30 or 60 minutes’ fire-resistance, as appropriate, depending on the risks
identified. Refer to HSE L138 [5], Dangerous substances and explosive atmospheres. DSEAR
2002. Approved Code of Practice and guidance, and BS 476 [6], Fire tests on building
materials and structures.

Figure 1: Use of a partition to achieve separation distances

14
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
7. REQUIREMENT FOR PERIODIC REVIEW

Users shall periodically review their facilities to ensure:

 that the separation distances are maintained, for example, through good
housekeeping;

 the separation distances are not compromised by site changes, for example,
through new construction work, revised inventories (types and quantities), process
changes, people-related changes, such as accommodation usage, etc.;

 the separation distances are not compromised by off-site changes, for example,
the activities of neighbours and nearby facilities, including changes of use of buildings,
behaviours of the local population, etc.;

 that new receptors or hazard sources are recognised;

 the separation distances remain suitable and sufficient.

The periodic review shall take place as a matter of routine.

Where changes are proposed on a site, a formal Management of Change process should be
followed, for example, refer to EIGA 51 [7], Management of change, including consideration
of the impact of any changes on any separation distances.

8. MINIMUM RECOMMENDED SEPARATION DISTANCES

BCGA minimum recommended separation distances are reproduced in the Appendices.

Refer to:

 Appendix 1, BCGA CP 4 [10].

 Appendix 2, BCGA CP 6 [11]

, The safe distribution of acetylene in the pressure
range 0 to 1.5 bar.

 Appendix 3, BCGA CP 18 [12]

, The safe storage, handling and use of special
gases.

 Appendix 4, BCGA CP 20 [13], Bulk liquid oxygen storage at production sites.

 Appendix 5, BCGA CP 22 [14]

, Bulk liquid argon or nitrogen storage at
production sites.

 Appendix 6, BCGA CP 26 [15]

, Bulk liquid carbon dioxide storage at Users’
premises.

15
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
  Appendix 7, BCGA CP 27 [16], Transportable vacuum insulated containers of not
more than 1000 litres volume.

 Appendix 8, BCGA CP 33 [17]

, The bulk storage of gaseous hydrogen at Users’
premises.

 Appendix 9, BCGA CP 36 [18], Cryogenic liquid storage at Users’ premises.

 Appendix 10, BCGA CP 41 [21], The design, construction, maintenance and

operation of filling stations dispensing gaseous fuels.

 Appendix 11, BCGA CP 44 [22], The storage of gas cylinders.

 Appendix 12, BCGA CP 46 [23], The storage of cryogenic flammable fluids.

The diagrams and tables have been extracted from previously published BCGA documents.
The intent of this Guidance Note being to publish all separation distances in a single
document.

NOTE: The separation distances and the cross-references shown in the Appendices relate
to the original documents the information was copied from. A majority of the separation
distance quoted in various BCGA documents have been included. The reader should refer to
the original document to understand the context in which the information was provided and
to obtain the correct cross-reference(s).

In future, it is intended that all separation distances will be removed from their original
documents and reference will be made to this Guidance Note. Future revisions of this
Guidance Note will review, further develop and consolidate the separation distances.

9. SECURITY

Separation distances do not provide any significant security provisions. If security provisions
are required, separate controls shall be employed, such as fences, locked gates, etc. Refer to
BCGA CP 40 [20], Security requirements for the industrial, medical and food gases industry.

10. REFERENCES

Document Number Title

1. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

2. SI 2002 No 2776 The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres

Regulations 2002 (DSEAR).

3. SI 2005 No 1541 Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

16
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 4. SI 2016 No 1107 Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for Use in Potentially
Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2016 (EPS).

5. HSE L138 Dangerous substances and explosive atmospheres. Dangerous

Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002.
Approved Code of Practice and guidance.

6. BS 476 Fire tests on building materials and structures.

7. EIGA 51 Management of change.

8. EIGA 75 Determination of safety distances.

9. EIGA 189 The calculation of harm and no-harm distances for the storage and
use of toxic gases in transportable containers.

10. BCGA Code of Gas supply and distribution systems (excluding acetylene).
Practice 4

11. BCGA Code of The safe distribution of acetylene in the pressure range 0 to 1.5
Practice 6 bar.

12. BCGA Code of The safe storage, handling and use of special gases.
Practice 18

13. BCGA Code of Bulk liquid oxygen storage at production sites.

Practice 20

14. BCGA Code of Bulk liquid argon or nitrogen storage at production sites.
Practice 22

15. BCGA Code of Bulk liquid carbon dioxide storage at Users’ premises.
Practice 26

16. BCGA Code of Transportable vacuum insulated containers of not more than 1000
Practice 27 litres volume.

17. BCGA Code of The bulk storage of gaseous hydrogen at Users’ premises.
Practice 33

18. BCGA Code of Cryogenic liquid storage at Users’ premises.

Practice 36

19. BCGA Code of In-service requirements of pressure equipment (gas storage and
Practice 39 gas distribution systems.

20. BCGA Code of Security requirements for the industrial, medical and food gases
Practice 40 industry.

21. BCGA Code of The design, construction, maintenance and operation of filling
Practice 41 stations dispensing gaseous fuels.

17
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 22. BCGA Code of The storage of gas cylinders.
Practice 44

23. BCGA Code of The storage of cryogenic flammable fluids.

Practice 46

24. BCGA Guidance The management of risk when using gases in enclosed spaces.
Note 11

25. BCGA Guidance DSEAR Risk Assessment.

Note 13

Further information can be obtained from:

UK Legislation www.legislation.gov.uk

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) www.hse.gov.uk

British Standards Institute (BSI) www.bsigroup.co.uk

European Industrial Gases Association (EIGA) www.eiga.eu

British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA) www.bcga.co.uk

18
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 1
Sheet 1 of 3

Source: BCGA CP 4 [10], Gas supply and distribution systems (excluding acetylene).

Distance (in metres) between oxygen or inert gas control systems and typical hazards.

Figure A1-1: Minimum distances – oxygen or inert gases

19
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 1
Sheet 2 of 3
Source: BCGA CP 4 [10]

Distance (in metres) between flammable gas control systems and typical hazards.

Figure A1-2: Minimum distances – flammable gases

20
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 1
Sheet 3 of 3
Source: BCGA CP 4 [10]

Minimum recommended separation distances

Minimum recommended separation distances are intended to:

a) protect personnel from exposure to hazardous atmospheres and to help reduce the
effects from any hazardous situation that may develop, for example, oxygen enrichment
and an increased fire risk;
b) protect the installation from the effects of thermal radiation or jet flame
impingement from fire hazards;
c) protect the installation from physical impact damage.

The distances are based upon industry standards as published by the BCGA, HSE guidance
notes and upon calculations based on physical tests or upon computer modelling of minor
releases. The distances given are not intended to protect against catastrophic failure of the
installation.

Distances are measured from any point on the system where in normal operation product
release may occur.

Shorter distances may be used if a site specific risk assessment in line with the EIGA
methodology, refer to EIGA 75, Determination of safety distances, (using HSE fatality rates)
indicates an acceptable level of risk.

NOTES on Figure A1-1 and Figure A1-2:

1) The safety distances used for LPG are based upon those given in Liquid Gas UK
CP 1, Bulk LPG storage at fixed installations, and Liquid Gas UK CP 7, Storage of full
and empty LPG cylinders and cartridges. Where there is any discrepancy between the
advice given here and the Liquid Gas UK Codes, the latter shall take precedence.

2) Where the quantity of LPG in cylinders is greater than 50 kg these shall be stored
a minimum of 3 metres from bulk LPG installations of up to 5,000 litres and 7.5 metres
from bulk storage of greater than 5,000 litres.

3) Where the quantity of LPG in cylinders is greater than 50 kg they should be not
less than 7.5 metres from bulk liquid oxygen storage.

4) Storage of compressed flammable gas cylinders with up to 70 (normal) m3 capacity

shall be a minimum distance of 5 metres from bulk liquid oxygen storage and 8 metres
where the quantity is in excess of this figure.

5) Safety distances for the siting of dissolved acetylene cylinders in relation to other
gases and hazards are contained in BCGA CP 6.

Figure A1-1 displays the minimum distances for oxygen or inert gases and Figure A1-2
displays the minimum distances for flammable gases. The minimum distances in Figure A1-1
and Figure A1-2 shall be observed.

21
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 2
Sheet 1 of 1

Source: BCGA CP 6 [11], The safe distribution of acetylene in the pressure range 0 to 1.5 bar

MINIMUM RECOMMENDED SEPARATION DISTANCE

For cylinders, or bundles in use, the horizontal minimum recommended separation distance
from the following are displayed in the Table.

 Gaseous oxygen storage and supply

 Non-flammable gas storage (liquid or gaseous other than oxygen)
 Naked flame, smoking and other sources of ignition
 Public roads
 Site boundaries
 Electrical equipment which is not suitably explosion-protected
 Car parks
 Flammable gas cylinder storage
 Openings in walls of offices, workshops etc.

Table shows the minimum recommended separation distance depending upon the number of
acetylene cylinders in use (including an equal number of connected standby cylinders).

Cylinders Safety distance

1 to 2 2m
3 to 12 3m
13 to 60 5m
61 and over Seek advice from gas supplier
Table: Horizontal minimum recommended separation distances

For the following, the separation safety distance shall never be less than 5 metres:

 Liquid oxygen fixed installations

 Combustible materials
 Bulk flammable liquids and bulk LPG storage
 Buildings of non-fire resisting materials
 Air compressor intakes

Where the required horizontal separation cannot be achieved, half hour fire-resistant walls
(refer to BCGA CP 6, Section 9.5) should be used. The safety distance may then be
measured as the shortest distance around the ends of the wall to the acetylene installation.
The height of the wall should not be less than 2.5 m. This approach may only be adopted to a
limited extent and providing that the standard of ventilation of the acetylene installation is not
significantly reduced.

Such partitions should be of at least 30 minutes’ fire-resisting construction, imperforate and

constructed of materials such as solid masonry or concrete.

22
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 3
Sheet 1 of 1
Source: BCGA CP 18 [12], The safe storage, handling and use of special gases

The store shall be located with due regard to the minimum recommended separation distances
specified in the Table. The special properties of some gases may require these to be extended.

Minimum
Typical type of exposure Features to be separation
separated distance
(in metres)
Smoking, naked flames Storage area 3
Bulk storage of flammable gases and liquids Storage area 3
Unprotected electrical equipment Flammable gases 3
Site boundaries
Air compressors and ventilator intakes
Roadways (other than those required for access) Toxic and flammable 3
Bulk storage of cryogenic liquids gases
Building openings
Site boundaries
Air compressors and ventilator intakes
Roadways (other than those required for access) Other gases 3
Bulk storage of cryogenic liquids
Building openings
Pyrophoric gases in store Other gas containers 2
(Refer to BCGA CP
18, Section 8.5)
Pyrophoric gases connected for use Other gas containers 2
(Refer to BCGA CP
18, Section 8.4)

NOTE: These distances are recommendations only. The risk assessment may suggest other
distances.

Table: Minimum recommended separation distances

To reduce the fire hazard to a minimum the area surrounding the storage site is to be kept clear.
Long grass, weeds and any overhanging branches are to be removed. A space of 3 m around
the storage area is to be kept clear of all vegetation and combustible material. In addition, the
undergrowth is to be kept as short as possible for a total distance of 9 m around the storage
area.

23
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 4
Sheet 1 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 20 [13], Bulk liquid oxygen storage at production sites

Distance between oxygen storage tanks above 200 tonnes capacity and typical hazards

NOTE (1) The safety distances are measured from the exposure to whichever is the lesser of:
a) Any point on the storage system where, in normal operation, leakage or spillage can occur.
b) The tank outer jacket
c) The vessel nozzles.
NOTE (2) For buildings the distances are measured to the nearest opening: i.e. door, window, vent, etc.
NOTE (3) For tanks of less than 200 tonnes oxygen capacity refer to BCGA CP 19.

24
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 4
Sheet 2 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 20 [13]

TABLE 1: SEPARATION DISTANCES: LIQUEFIED FLAMMABLE GASES,

FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS AND OXYGEN STORAGE

a) LPG Storage

Size of Storage
Separation Distance
Liquid Oxygen
LPG Vessels
Vessel
Equivalent Liquid
Weight capacity
tonnes Capacity Metres
tonnes
m3 at 15 ℃
30.0
0–2 0–4
45.0
2 – 220 4 – 430
Individual Assessment
220 and above 430 and above
Required
Above 200
LPG cylinders and other liquefied
flammable gas * cylinders above 50 kg total 7.5
capacity

See also HS(G) 34, and LPGA COP 1.

b) Other Bulk Flammable Liquids and Liquefied Flammable Gases

The separation distances listed above for LPG should apply to the same stored volumes (m 3)
of other bulk liquefied flammable gases and may be used for the same stored volumes (m3) of
bulk flammable liquids #. These distances may be reduced depending on the nature of the
flammable liquid and any protective measures and in these cases an individual assessment or
the proposed location shall be carried out.

* Common examples include: ammonia, hydrogen sulphide and ethylene oxide.

# Common examples include: acetone, methanol, diesel and petrol

25
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 4
Sheet 3 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 20 [13]

TABLE 2: SEPARATION DISTANCES: COMPRESSED FLAMMABLE GASES

AND OXYGEN STORAGE

Compressed flammable
Liquid oxygen storage
gas cylinders
above 200 tonnes
(Gas volume measured at
Separation distance
1013 mbar and 15 ℃)
Metres
m3

Up to 200 15.0
Above 200 30.0
Flammable Gases stored at
atmospheric pressure
and 15 ℃
Up to 1500 15.0
Above 1500 30.0

Notes:

1) For liquefied flammable gas cylinders, see Table 1.

2) These distances may be reduced depending on the nature of the flammable gas
and any protective measures and in this case an individual assessment of the proposed
location shall be carried out.

26
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 4
Sheet 4 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 20 [13]

TABLE 3: SAFETY DISTANCES FROM FLAMMABLE LIQUID OR GAS LINES

WITH UNION FLANGES ETC. TO LOX STORAGE

Flammable liquid Liquid Oxygen

or Storage above
Gas Line Size 200 Tonnes
(Nominal) Separation Distance
mm inches
Metres
Bore Bore

Up to 50 2 10.0
Above 50 2 15.0

NOTES:

1. The above separation distances are intended to provide protection for the LOX
storage tank against jet flame impingement from an ignited release from the flammable
liquid/gas line.

2. The distances are based on LPG as the contents of the flammable liquid/gas line
are given as a ‘worst case’.

3. For flammable liquids or gases other than LPG in the line, the above distances
should be used, unless it can be shown that smaller distances are adequate to avoid jet
flame impingement.

4. If some means of protection from jet flame impingement (such as shielding of the
joint by fire resistive material) can be provided between the union/flange on the
flammable liquid/gas line and the LOX storage and this can be shown to provide an equal
or greater degree of protection than the separation distances shown, the separation
distances may be reduced.

27
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 5
Sheet 1 of 1

Source: BCGA CP 22 [14], Bulk liquid argon or nitrogen storage at production sites.

SAFETY DISTANCES IN METRES

Distance between nitrogen or argon storage tanks above 250,000 litres capacity and typical hazards.

NOTE (1) The safety distances are measured from the exposure to whichever is the lesser of:
a) Any point on the storage system where, in normal operation, leakage or spillage can occur.
b) The tank outer jacket
c) The vessel nozzles.
NOTE (2) For buildings the distances are measured to the nearest opening: i.e. door, window, vent, etc.
NOTE (3) For tanks below 250,000 litres capacity see BCGA CP 21.

28
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 6
Sheet 1 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 26 [15], Bulk liquid carbon dioxide storage at Users’ premises.

SAFETY DISTANCES
Explanatory Notes
The following descriptors are used in the safety distance diagrams (Diagrams 1 & 2), with
examples of the risks.

DESCRIPTORS RISK

Large wooden structures, timber Thermal radiation from fire.

yards etc.
Compressor, ventilator and air Ventilator and air conditioning intakes –carbon
conditioning intakes. dioxide enriched atmosphere from leaking product
and danger to personnel.
Embrittlement of equipment.
Fuel gas vent pipes. Thermal radiation from fire.
Process equipment & machinery Embrittlement of equipment.
which is not a part of the storage Malfunction / contamination from leaking product
installation. entering process equipment.
MV and HV sub-stations. Embrittlement of equipment.
Thermal radiation from fire.
Openings, windows and escape Carbon dioxide enriched atmosphere from leaking
routes from buildings & areas product, danger to personnel.
where employees and visitors are Thermal radiation from fire.
likely to congregate.
Places of public assembly. Carbon dioxide enriched atmosphere from leaking
product, danger to personnel.
Railway lines. Carbon dioxide enriched atmosphere from leaking
product.
Embrittlement of equipment.
Public roads. Carbon dioxide enriched atmosphere from leaking
product, danger to personnel.
Embrittlement of equipment.
Reduced visibility from major product release.
Property boundaries Carbon dioxide enriched atmosphere from leaking
product, danger to personnel.
Embrittlement of equipment.
Reduced visibility from major product release.
Vehicle parking areas. Ventilator and air conditioning intakes – carbon
dioxide enriched atmosphere from leaking
product, danger to personnel.
Embrittlement of equipment.
Reduced visibility from major product release.
Accessibility to the tank controls.

29
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 6
Sheet 2 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 26 [15]

DESCRIPTORS RISK

Pits, ducts & surface water drains Carbon dioxide enriched atmosphere from leaking
(untrapped). Openings of systems product, danger to personnel.
below ground level. Embrittlement of equipment.
Continuous sections of pipelines Embrittlement of equipment.
containing flammable gases /
liquids, not interrupted by fittings
e.g. valves, unions, flanges, etc.
Flanges, unions in pipelines Thermal radiation from fire.
containing flammable gases or Embrittlement of equipment.
liquids.
Flammable gas cylinder storage. Thermal radiation from fire.
Embrittlement of equipment.
Bulk flammable liquid storage up Thermal radiation from fire.
to 4 tonnes * Embrittlement of equipment.
L.P.G. storage up to 4 tonnes * Thermal radiation from fire.
Embrittlement of equipment.
Non-flammable gas cylinder Embrittlement of equipment.
storage.
Small stocks of combustible Thermal radiation from fire.
material, site huts, work sheds
etc.
Areas where open flames, Carbon dioxide enriched atmosphere from leaking
smoking etc. are permitted. product, danger to personnel.

30
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 6
Sheet 3 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 26 [15]

Diagram 1: Distance between carbon dioxide tanks up to 2,000 litres water

capacity and typical hazards

Distance in metres

NOTE: Assumed maximum carbon dioxide liquid phase pipework diameter DN 15

(½˝ nominal bore) and flammable gas/liquid pipe up to DN25 (1˝ nominal bore).

* For LPG or flammable liquid tanks above 4 tonnes a risk assessment shall be carried
out to establish the safe separation distance.

31
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 6
Sheet 4 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 26 [15]

Diagram 2: Distance between carbon dioxide tanks from 2,000 litres to 250,000 litres
water capacity and typical hazards

Distance in metres

NOTE: Assumed maximum carbon dioxide liquid phase pipework diameter DN 50 (2˝
nominal bore) and flammable gas / liquid pipe up to DN25 (1˝ nominal bore).

* For LPG or flammable liquid tanks above 4 tonnes a risk assessment shall be carried out to
establish the safe separation distance.

32
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 7
Sheet 1 of 3
Source: BCGA CP 27 [16], Transportable vacuum insulated containers of not more than 1000
litres volume

33
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 7
Sheet 2 of 3
Source: BCGA CP 27 [16]

34
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 7
Sheet 3 of 3
Source: BCGA CP 27 [16]

NOTE (1) The safety distances are measured from the exposure to:
a) Any point on the storage system where, in normal operation, leakage or
spillage can occur, or
b) The tank outer jacket, or
c) The vessel nozzles.
whichever gives the greatest safety distance from the tank.

NOTE (2) For offices, canteens, etc. the distances are measured to the nearest opening in the
building e.g. windows and doors.

NOTE (3) Ventilator intakes should be at least 1 metre above ground level if within 5 metres
of the tank.

NOTE (4) Any door within 1 metre of the tank should be of a self-closing type.

NOTE (5) Where tanks are stored or located inside buildings refer to section 5.1.

35
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 8
Sheet 1 of 1

Source: BCGA CP 33 [17], The bulk storage of gaseous hydrogen at Users’premises.

TABLE 1 – MINIMUM RECOMMENDED HORIZONTAL DISTANCES

If a firewall is used, a minimum separation distance of 3 m should be maintained between the

wall and any part of the trailer or fixed installation that could provide a likely ignition point.
The distances shown above are horizontal distances. Where specified hazards exist vertically
above the installation special considerations apply. A formal risk analysis will be needed to
assess the requirements.

36
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 9
Sheet 1 of 8
Source: BCGA CP 36 [18], Cryogenic liquid storage at Users’ premises

MINIMUM SAFETY DISTANCES

Explanatory notes
The following descriptors are used in the safety distance diagrams, with examples of the risks.
Descriptors Liquid oxygen Liquid inert gases
Large wooden Spontaneous combustion from Thermal radiation from fire.
structures, timber yards leaking product.
etc. Thermal radiation from fire.

Compressor, ventilator Compressor - Spontaneous Ventilator and air conditioning

and air conditioning combustion from leaking product. intakes – oxygen deficient
intakes. Ventilator and air conditioning atmosphere from leaking
intakes – oxygen enriched atmosphere product and danger to
from leaking product, increased fire personnel.
risk and danger to personnel. Embrittlement of equipment.
Embrittlement of equipment.

Fuel gas vent pipes. Spontaneous combustion from Thermal radiation from fire.
leaking product.
Thermal radiation from fire.

Process equipment & Spontaneous combustion from Malfunction / contamination

machinery which is not leaking product. from leaking product entering
a part of the storage Malfunction / contamination from process equipment.
installation. leaking product entering process Embrittlement of equipment.
equipment.
Embrittlement of equipment.

Medium Voltage (MV) Spontaneous combustion from Embrittlement of equipment.

and High Voltage (HV) leaking product. Thermal radiation from fire.
sub-stations. Embrittlement of equipment.
Thermal radiation from fire.

Openings, windows and Oxygen enriched atmosphere from Oxygen deficient atmosphere
escape routes from leaking product, increased fire risk, from leaking product, danger
buildings & areas where danger to personnel. to personnel.
employees and visitors Thermal radiation from fire. Thermal radiation from fire.
are likely to congregate.
Places of public Oxygen enriched atmosphere from Oxygen deficient atmosphere
assembly. leaking product, increased fire risk, from leaking product, danger
danger to personnel. to personnel.

Railway Lines. Oxygen enriched atmosphere from Oxygen deficient atmosphere

leaking product, increased fire risk. from leaking product.
Embrittlement of equipment. Embrittlement of equipment.

37
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 9
Sheet 2 of 8
Source: BCGA CP 36 [18]

Public roads. Oxygen enriched atmosphere Oxygen deficient atmosphere

from leaking product, increased from leaking product, danger to
fire risk, danger to personnel. personnel.
Embrittlement of equipment. Embrittlement of equipment.
Reduced visibility from major Reduced visibility from major
product release. product release.

Property boundaries Oxygen enriched atmosphere Oxygen deficient atmosphere

from leaking product, increased from leaking product, danger to
fire risk, danger to personnel. personnel.
Embrittlement of equipment. Embrittlement of equipment.
Reduced visibility from major Reduced visibility from major
product release. product release.

Vehicle parking areas. Spontaneous combustion from Ventilator and air conditioning
leaking product. intakes – oxygen deficient
Ventilator and air conditioning atmosphere from leaking
intakes – oxygen enriched product, danger to personnel.
atmosphere from leaking Embrittlement of equipment.
product, increased fire risk, Reduced visibility from major
danger to personnel. product release.
Embrittlement of equipment. Accessibility to the tank
Reduced visibility from major controls.
product release.
Accessibility to the tank
controls.

Pits, ducts & surface water Spontaneous combustion from Oxygen deficient atmosphere
drains (untrapped). leaking product. from leaking product, danger to
Openings of systems below Oxygen enriched atmosphere personnel.
ground level. from leaking product, increased Embrittlement of equipment.
fire risk, danger to personnel.
Embrittlement of equipment.

Continuous sections of Embrittlement of equipment. Embrittlement of equipment.

pipelines containing
flammable gases / liquids,
not interrupted by fittings
e.g. valves, unions, flanges,
etc.

Flanges, unions in pipelines Spontaneous combustion from Thermal radiation from fire.
containing flammable gases leaking product. Embrittlement of equipment.
or liquids. Thermal radiation from fire.
Embrittlement of equipment.

38
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 9
Sheet 3 of 8
Source: BCGA CP 36 [18]

Flammable gas cylinder Spontaneous combustion from Thermal radiation from fire.
storage. leaking product. Embrittlement of equipment.
Thermal radiation from fire.
Embrittlement of equipment.

Bulk flammable liquid Spontaneous combustion from Thermal radiation from fire.
storage up to 4 tonnes. leaking product. Embrittlement of equipment.
Thermal radiation from fire.
Embrittlement of equipment.

LPG storage up to 4 tonnes. Spontaneous combustion from Thermal radiation from fire.
leaking product. Embrittlement of equipment.
Thermal radiation from fire.
Embrittlement of equipment.

Non-flammable gas Embrittlement of equipment. Embrittlement of equipment.

cylinder storage.
Small stocks of combustible Spontaneous combustion from Thermal radiation from fire.
material, site huts, work leaking product.
sheds etc. Thermal radiation from fire.

Areas where open flames, Spontaneous combustion from Oxygen deficient atmosphere
smoking etc are permitted. leaking product. from leaking product, danger to
Oxygen enriched atmosphere personnel.
from leaking product, increased
fire risk, danger to personnel.

39
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 9
Sheet 4 of 8
Source: BCGA CP 36 [18]

Safety Distance between oxygen tanks up to 2,000 litres water capacity

and typical hazards.

Distances in metres

NOTE: Assumed maximum oxygen liquid phase pipework diameter DN 15 (1/2″ nominal
bore) and flammable gas / liquid pipe up to DN25 (1″ nominal bore).

* For LPG or flammable liquid tanks above 4 tonnes a risk assessment shall be carried out to
establish the safe separation distance.

40
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 9
Sheet 5 of 8
Source: BCGA CP 36 [18]

Distance between oxygen tanks from 2,000 litres to 20,000 litres water capacity
and typical hazards.

Distances in metres

NOTE: Assumed maximum oxygen liquid phase pipework diameter DN 40 (1½″ nominal
bore) and flammable gas / liquid pipe up to DN25 (1″ nominal bore).

* For LPG or flammable liquid tanks above 4 tonnes a risk assessment shall be carried out to
establish the safe separation distance.

41
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 9
Sheet 6 of 8
Source: BCGA CP 36 [18]

Distance between oxygen tanks from 20,000 litres up to 125,000 litres water capacity
and typical hazards.

Distances in metres

NOTE: Assumed maximum oxygen liquid phase pipework diameter DN 40 (1½″ nominal
bore) and flammable gas / liquid pipe up to DN25 (1″ nominal bore).

* For LPG or flammable liquid tanks above 4 tonnes a risk assessment shall be carried out to
establish the safe separation distance.

42
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 9
Sheet 7 of 8
Source: BCGA CP 36 [18]

Distance between nitrogen, argon and helium tanks up to 2,000 litres water capacity
and typical hazards.

Distances in metres

NOTE: Assumed maximum liquid phase pipework diameter DN 15 (1/2″ nominal bore)
and flammable gas / liquid pipe up to DN25 (1″ nominal bore).

* For LPG or flammable liquid tanks above 4 tonnes a risk assessment shall be carried out to
establish the safe separation distance.

43
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 9
Sheet 8 of 8
Source: BCGA CP 36 [18]

Distance between nitrogen, argon and helium tanks from 2,000 litres to 125,000 litres
water capacity and typical hazards.

Distances in metres

NOTE: Assumed maximum liquid phase pipework diameter DN 50 (2″ nominal bore) and
flammable gas / liquid pipe up to DN25 (1″ nominal bore).

* For LPG or flammable liquid tanks above 4 tonnes a risk assessment shall be carried out to
establish the safe separation distance.

44
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 10
Sheet 1 of 2

Source: BCGA CP 41 [21], The design, construction, maintenance and operation of filling
stations dispensing gaseous fuels.

MINIMUM RECOMMENDED SEPARATION DISTANCES

FOR HYDROGEN STORAGE INSTALLATIONS
Compilation of minimum recommended separation distances (in metres) for gaseous and liquid
hydrogen installations, taken from BCGA CP 4, BCGA CP 33 and EIGA 6:

BCGA BCGA EIGA

Hazards
CP 4 CP 33 06
Sources of ignition e.g. open flames, smoking, welding, electrical 5 5 10
Bulk flammable liquid storage (excluding LPG.) 5 8 10
LPG storage 8 8 10
Flammable gas storage 3 5 8
Other LH2 fixed storage - - 1.5
LH2 tanker - - 3
Wooden structures, small stocks of combustible material, site
5 8 10
huts, work sheds etc.
Fuel gas vent pipes 3 5 -
Continuous sections of pipelines containing flammable gases or
3 5 -
liquids not interrupted by fittings e.g. valves, unions, flanges etc.
Flanges, unions in pipelines containing flammable gases or
3 8 -
liquids
Bulk liquid oxygen storage * 5-8 - 6
Occupied buildings and areas where people are likely to
5 8 20
congregate
Air intakes (Ventilator, compressor, air conditioning) 5 8 20
Pits, ducts & surface water drains (untrapped). Openings of
0 5 -
systems below ground level
Vehicle parking areas (other than authorised vehicles) 5 8 -
Property boundaries 5 8 10
Public roads & railway lines 5 8 10
Vulnerable population (e.g. hospitals, schools, nursing homes) - - 60
Overhead power lines (>1 kV) - - 10
Fire walls 0 0.6 2.5

* Dependent on volume of stored hydrogen

45
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 10
Sheet 2 of 2
Source: BCGA CP 41 [21]

MINIMUM RECOMMENDED SEPARATION DISTANCES FOR NATURAL GAS STORAGE INSTALLATIONS

Minimum recommended separation distances (in metres)

BCGA BCGA
Descriptor ISO 16923 ISO 16924 Recommended
CP 41 CP 46
Occupied building or kiosk or where activities are taking place 4 / 5 / 8 / 20 5 / 15 10 / 15 6, can be reduced to 3 5
with DMS NOTE 1
Air intakes, compressors, HVAC 5 / 8 / 20 5 / 15 3 5

Pits, ducts, drains, un-trapped 5 5/8 5

Parked vehicle (other than being fuelled) 3/5/8 5/8 5
Property boundary 2 / 5 / 8 / 10 5/8 5 / 10 5

Public highways railways 5 / 8 / 10 5/8 5 5

Overhead power line <1 kV 1.5 1.5

Overhead power line >1 kV 10 10 10 10

Pump dispensing an out of scope liquid fuel HARA NOTE 2

Pump dispensing different in-scope fuel HARA NOTE 2

Pump dispensing same in-scope fuel HARA NOTE 2

NOTES:
1. DMS - Dead Man’s Switch
2. HARA – (in accordance with a) Hazardous Area Risk Assessment.

46
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 11
Sheet 1 of 7

Source: BCGA CP 44 [22], The storage of gas cylinders

MINIMUM RECOMMENDED SERARATION DISTANCES

The recommended separation distance is to provide a minimum separation which will mitigate
the effect of any likely event and prevent it from escalating into a larger incident. The minimum
recommended separation distance will also provide protection for the gas cylinder from
foreseeable external impacts (for example, vehicles) or activities outside the control of the
operation (for example, plant or customer station boundary).

The minimum recommended separation distances may be used as guidance for cylinders that
are in-use subject to appropriate risk assessment.

To assist in the control of separation distances external to the store, the use of painted hatched
lines is an option.

When siting cylinders near another hazard, check that there is no specific legislation concerning
that hazard which requires measures beyond those stated.

Cylinder stores should not be located next to other stores containing combustible materials or
products. Stores are to be located away from any potential source of excessive heat or ignition.
Where significant quantities are present or there is uncertainty about arrangements it is
recommended that the Fire and Rescue Service is consulted.

In some cases physical partitions or barriers may be used to reduce the required separation
distances. A suitably constructed firewall may eliminate or reduce the separation distance. Refer
to BCGA CP 44, Section 5.4.1.

Where gas cylinders are kept in a store and are connected into a distribution system, additional
information is available in BCGA CP 4.

LPG. Where only LPG is stored, or for quantities above 400 kg and for additional information
on the storage of LPG cylinders in other circumstances, for example, domestic and retail, refer to
publications from the UKLPG, for example, UKLPG CP 7, and UKLPG CP 24, Use of LPG
cylinders.

Minimum recommended separation distance from the gas store to other classes of
packaged dangerous substances

The separation distance is measured from the boundary of each store, or for individual cylinder
packages, their outer edge, where they are not located in a store.

For additional advice, refer to HSE HSG 71, and for flammable liquids <1000 L, HSE HSG
51, The storage of flammable liquids in containers.

47
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 11
Sheet 2 of 7

Source: BCGA CP 44 [22]

Minimum recommended separation distance from the gas store to other classes of bulk
dangerous substances

The distances from bulk storage are to be taken from the skin of the tank or any potential release
points, for example, filling lines, vents, vaporiser.

Where dangerous goods are stored in bulk close to a gas store an additional risk assessment
shall be carried out to determine the minimum recommended separation distances as they may
need to be greater than those used for packaged dangerous goods.

For additional advice and examples, refer to UKLPG CP 1, Part 1, Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed
Installations: Design, Installation and Operation of Vessels Located Above Ground, and HSG
176, The storage of flammable liquids in tanks.

48
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 11
Sheet 3 of 7
Source: BCGA CP 44 [22]

TABLE: Minimum recommended separation distance from the gas store to specific hazards, processes and articles.

Toxic /
Image Descriptors Hazard Inert Flammable Oxidiser
Corrosive
Wooden structures, Thermal radiation from fire.
site huts, work sheds
etc. 1 3 3 3
NOTE 2.
Combustible material, Thermal radiation from fire.
paper, cardboard
boxes, etc.
1 3 3 3
Excessive vegetation.

Plant, ventilation and Intake – Suction of gas into

conditioning. machinery. Hazardous gas
properties creating danger to
personnel and equipment such as,
Intakes oxygen depletion, explosion and / or 3 3 3 3
fire risk.

Exhausts Exhaust – Heat and properties / 1 3 3 3

quality of the air (gas) being
NOTES 7, 8, 9. exhausted. Potential harmful effects
on the condition of a cylinder.

49
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 11
Sheet 4 of 7
Source: BCGA CP 44 [22]

Fuel gas vent pipes. Ignition of leaking product.

Thermal radiation from fire.
NOTE 8. 0 3 3 3

Overground services Ignition of leaking product. < 1 kV 1.5

Damage caused by electric arcing. 1 1 1
≥1 kV 10
Not to be located directly underneath electrical power
cables, this includes telephone cables.
Process equipment & Ignition of leaking product from the
machinery which is process equipment.
not a part of the
0 3 1 1
storage installation. Thermal radiation from heat
generated by normal operation.
NOTE 7.
Unprotected electrical Source of ignition.
equipment
1 3 1 1
NOTE 7.
Medium Voltage Ignition of leaking product. Undesirable to locate near. Requires a specific risk
(MV) and High Thermal radiation from fire. assessment and specialist advice.
Voltage (HV) sub-
stations.

NOTE 7.

50
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 11
Sheet 5 of 7
Source: BCGA CP 44 [22]

Openings, windows Hazardous gas properties creating

and escape routes danger to personnel and equipment
1 2 1 3
from buildings. such as, oxygen depletion, fire risk.

Vulnerable
populations. 8 8 8 8

Places where people Hazardous gas properties creating

assemble or have danger to people and equipment
1 3 1 3
public access. such as, oxygen depletion, fire risk.

Where naked flames, Increased fire risk, danger to

smoking, welding etc. personnel. NOTE 4

may be present. 1 1 3
3

Railway tracks Hazardous gas properties creating Undesirable to locate near. Requires a specific risk
(on railway property). danger to people and equipment assessment and specialist advice.
such as, oxygen depletion, fire risk.
Do not locate flammable gas cylinder stores underneath a
bridge supporting a railway.
Public roads. Hazardous gas properties creating Undesirable to locate near. Requires a specific risk
danger to people and equipment assessment and specialist advice.
such as, oxygen depletion, fire risk.
Do not locate flammable gas cylinder stores underneath a
bridge supporting a public road.

51
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 11
Sheet 6 of 7
Source: BCGA CP 44 [22]

Site boundaries Hazardous gas properties creating

danger to people and equipment
NOTE 3. such as, oxygen depletion, fire risk. 1 3 1 3

Vehicle(s). Hazardous gas properties creating

danger to people and equipment.
Parking areas.
Potential of vehicle to act as an 0 3 1 3
The store shall have ignition source.
adequate protection
against vehicle impact.
Pits, ducts & surface Liquefied and heavier-than-air gases
water drains are likely to accumulate below
(untrapped). Openings ground causing oxygen deficient or 0 2 0 0
of systems below flammable atmospheres.
ground level.
Cryogenic storage Embrittlement from extreme cold. 1 From inert 1 1
tank cryogen = 1

NOTES 5, 6. From oxidant

cryogen =
<2000 L = 5

>2000 L = 8

52
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 11
Sheet 7 of 7
Source: BCGA CP 44 [22]

TABLE: NOTES:

1. All distances are in metres (m).

2. The separation distance is measured from:

 for individual cylinders, the separation distance is to be measured from the external
shell of the cylinder to the external boundary of the specific hazard; or

 where multiple cylinders are kept in a store with a fence, for all hazards external to
the store the fence-line may be taken as the starting point to measure a separation
distance.

3. Where the store boundary also acts as a site boundary – the values quoted are the distance
between the cylinder and the site boundary.

4. LPG cylinders. <400 kg = 1 m; >400 kg = 3 m.

5. For all bulk dangerous substances a risk assessment shall be carried out to establish the
safe separation distance.

6. The distances from bulk storage are to be taken from the skin of the tank or any potential
release points, for example, filling lines, vents, vaporiser.

7. The risk assessment (refer to BCGA CP 44, Section 5.1) may identify a need for protected
electrical equipment or may justify a change to the separation distance for un-protected electrical
equipment.

8. The store shall not be directly below an air intake. Exhaust gases should be directed away
from cylinders.

9. Consideration should be given to the density of the gases being stored, i.e. lighter or heavier
than air. Take into account air intakes, doors, windows and other openings close to the storage
area. This may require an increased separation distance.

53
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 12
Sheet 1 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 46 [23], The storage of cryogenic flammable fluids

MINIMUM RECOMMENDED SEPARATION DISTANCES

Refer to BCGA CP 46, Section 4.4. The following descriptors are used in the separation distance
table, with examples of the potential hazards.

Image Descriptors Hazard

Compressor, ventilator Compressor – Ignition of leaking product.
and air conditioning Ventilator and air conditioning intakes –
intakes. flammable atmosphere from leaking product,
increased fire risk and danger to personnel.
Embrittlement of equipment.

Fuel gas vent pipes. Ignition of leaking product.

Thermal radiation from fire.

Offices, canteens and Oxygen deficient atmosphere from leaking

escape routes from product, danger to personnel.
buildings and other Flammable atmosphere from leaking product,
areas where employees increased fire risk.
and visitors are likely to Thermal radiation from fire.
congregate.
Railway Lines. Flammable atmosphere from leaking product,
increased fire risk.
Ignition of leaking product.
Thermal radiation from fire.
Embrittlement of equipment.
Reduced visibility from major product release.
Public roads. Flammable atmosphere from leaking product,
increased fire risk.
Ignition of leaking product.
Thermal radiation from fire.
Embrittlement of equipment.
Reduced visibility from major product release.
Property boundaries Flammable atmosphere from leaking product,
increased fire risk.
Ignition of leaking product.
Thermal radiation from fire.
Embrittlement of equipment.
Reduced visibility from major product release.
Oxygen deficient atmosphere from leaking
product, danger to personnel.

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BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 12
Sheet 2 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 46 [23]

Vehicle parking areas. Ventilator and air conditioning intakes –

flammable atmosphere from leaking product,
increased fire risk, danger to personnel.
Ignition of leaking product. Oxygen deficient
atmosphere from leaking product, danger to
personnel.
Embrittlement of equipment.
Reduced visibility from major product release.
Accessibility to the tank controls.
Pits, ducts & surface Ignition of leaking product.
water drains Oxygen deficient atmosphere from leaking
(untrapped). Openings product, danger to personnel.
of systems below Flammable atmosphere from leaking product,
ground level. increased fire risk.
Bulk flammable fluids. Ignition from leaking product.
Thermal radiation from fire.
Embrittlement of equipment.

Stocks of combustible Thermal radiation from fire.

material, site huts,
wooden structures etc.

Areas where open Ignition from leaking product.

flames, smoking etc. Flammable atmosphere from leaking product,
are permitted. increased fire risk.
Oxygen deficient atmosphere from leaking
product, increased fire risk, danger to
personnel.
Electrical cable and Flammable atmosphere from leaking product,
pylons increased fire risk.

55
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 12
Sheet 3 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 46 [23]
MINIMUM RECOMMENDED SEPARATION DISTANCES

Minimum recommended separation distances continue to be revised as experience is gained

and improved computer based methodologies are further developed.

The table below is based on information within BS EN ISO 21009 Part 2. Currently this
provides the latest published distances and is in-line with previous BCGA recommendations.

For larger volumes / masses of products in the vessel, separation distances are determined by
a specific risk assessment.

Where a specific risk assessment is required, or if there is any doubt over a specific distance
then that distance should be determined by risk assessment. EIGA provide a methodology
within EIGA Document 75. BS EN 13645 provides a methodology for LNG storage
installations.

TABLE: – Minimum recommended separation distances (Distance in metres).

Other
LH2 Flammable
Descriptor Fluids
≤ 5 tonnes ≤ 50 tonnes
Compressor, ventilator and air conditioning intakes. 15 5
Fuel gas vent pipes. 15 5
Offices, canteens and escape routes from buildings and other
areas where employees and visitors are likely to congregate. 15 5
Railway Lines. 8 5
Public roads. 8 5
Property boundaries. 8 5
Vehicle parking areas. 8 5
Pits, ducts & surface water drains (untrapped). Openings of
systems below ground level. 8 5

Bulk flammable fluids, for tanks containing dissimilar

product. NOTE 2. 8 5

Stocks of solid combustible material, site huts, wooden

structures etc. 8 5

Areas where open flames, smoking etc. are permitted. 8 5

Electrical cable and pylons. < 1 kV 1.5 1.5
≥ 1 kV 10 10
Not to be located directly underneath.
Includes telephone cables.

56
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
 APPENDIX 12
Sheet 4 of 4
Source: BCGA CP 46 [23]

TABLE - Minimum recommended separation distances between flammable storage tanks and
other specific hazards

Tanks and other Minimum separation

hazards distance
Between storage tanks
containing identical flammable NOTE 2
gases and operating as part of
1.5 m
a combined storage scheme.
Between storage tanks for Liquid O2 = 7.5 m
flammable gases and storage Flammable solid = 10 m
tanks for other hazards. Flammable liquid = 10 m

NOTES:

1. The separation distance between tanks is also to allow pedestrian access around the whole
tank circumference, and to allow maintenance activities to take place, including sufficient
space for maintenance equipment, for example, cranes, ladders etc.

2. Where tanks are close together, the location of tank vents, and the direction of the vent
exhaust shall be assessed. Venting gas can cause mechanical damage if allowed to impact on
adjacent tanks or their associated equipment. Where venting gas may impact on adjacent tanks
greater separation distances are required.

3. Where protective structures such as fire walls are installed, the following limits apply:

 To minimise the consequence of an accidental leakage, the vessel should not be

enveloped or constricted by walls or buildings.

 If the vessel is installed in close proximity to a building or a fire resistant wall, the
minimum distance of 2.5 m should apply.

 Further walls (vessel in 2 or 3 sided zone) should be avoided as much as possible

to prevent accidental gas confinement, if leakage occurs.

 If proximity to more than one wall cannot be avoided, the above safety distances
should be increased, or the wall structure should be strengthened to withstand an
increased overpressure.

57
BCGA GN 41 – 2020
British Compressed Gases Association
www.bcga.co.uk