The IP Model Code of Safe Practice, Part 15, Area Classification Code for Petroleum Installations, 1.5.

4 also defines the

amount of flammable product, in this case LPG vapour, released into the atmosphere during the course of normal
operations as the grade of release.

Three grades of release are defined in terms of their likely frequency and duration:

- Continuous Grade Release - A release that is continuous or nearly so or that occurs for short periods
which occur frequently

- Primary Grade Release - A release that is likely to occur periodically or occasionally

- Secondary Grade Release - A release that is unlikely and in any event, will do so only infrequently and
for short periods

As a guide, releases which occur during normal operation from a source for more than 1000 hours per year should be
considered continuous and primary if it is likely to be present for between 10 and 1000 hours per year.

A release that is likely to be present for less than 10 hours per year and for short periods only should be considered
secondary.

Typically, any releases involved in cylinder filling and maintenance will be primary and secondary in cylinder storage
areas.

For outdoor facilities, as defined in 6.6 below, there is a direct relationship between the grade of release and the
hazard zone to which the release gives rise, i.e.

- Continuous grade normally leads to Zone 0

- Primary grade normally leads to Zone 1

- Secondary grade normally leads to Zone 2

It should be noted that the above only applies when the ventilation is adequate. Poor ventilation may result in a more
stringent hazard zone and therefore restrictions on operations and a requirement for electrical equipment to higher
standards. Refer section 6.6 regarding ventilation.

6.5 Buildings and Structures

Buildings should be constructed to allow for continuous ventilation (forced or natural), be made of fire resistant
materials and the design should provide a suitable working environment taking into consideration the local climatic
conditions. Where the climatic conditions permit, filling plant buildings should have totally open sides to provide
unobstructed natural ventilation.

Where it is essential to use enclosed or partially enclosed buildings there must be an adequate level of ventilation
through the filling area and adjoining buildings, refer 6.6 below.

Where the filling plant is enclosed, special attention shall be given to the provision of gas detection and emergency
exits. The structural and ventilation requirements for enclosed cylinder filling buildings are those set out in CS4 for
cylinder storage in specially designed buildings. Ventilation must always be sufficient to meet the general
requirements of 6.6.

All structures must comply with the appropriate local building regulations, and the relevant LPG code, standards and
regulations of the country.

Platforms and floors should be constructed in mass concrete, or other suitable non-combustible materials, to
withstand the impact of LPG cylinders and/or pallets (refer 6.2.10).

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