Alabama Administrative Code Title 530 - ALABAMA LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS BOARD
Alabama Administrative Code Title 530 — Alabama Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board
Overview
Title 530 of the Alabama Administrative Code governs the Alabama Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board (ALPG Board), a regulatory agency established to oversee the safe handling, storage, transportation, and use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) within the state. The Board’s primary responsibility is to protect public health and safety by enforcing state laws and regulations related to LPG.
The ALPG Board is empowered by the Alabama Code Title 34, Chapter 29 and administers regulations related to licensing, inspection, safety standards, and enforcement actions.
Purpose and Functions of the Alabama Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board
Regulate and license businesses and individuals involved in the distribution, storage, and use of LPG.
Establish and enforce safety standards for LPG equipment, storage tanks, and vehicles.
Conduct inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Investigate accidents or complaints involving LPG.
Provide training and certification for LPG handlers and technicians.
Impose penalties, fines, or license suspensions for violations.
Educate the public and industry on safe LPG practices.
Key Provisions of Alabama Administrative Code Title 530
1. Licensing and Registration (ALAC 530-1)
Requires all businesses that sell, store, transport, or handle LPG to obtain a license from the Board.
Specifies licensing categories, including:
Distributors
Installers and technicians
Transporters
Licenses must be renewed periodically and may require proof of insurance or bonding.
2. Safety Standards and Inspections (ALAC 530-2)
Establishes minimum safety standards for:
LPG storage tanks and containers.
Equipment installation and maintenance.
Transportation vehicles.
Requires regular inspections by Board inspectors.
Sets guidelines for handling leaks, spills, and emergency response.
3. Training and Certification (ALAC 530-3)
Mandates training programs for LPG handlers and technicians.
Certification is required to perform installations or service LPG systems.
The Board may approve training providers and courses.
4. Enforcement and Penalties (ALAC 530-4)
Outlines procedures for investigating complaints or accidents.
Violations of regulations may result in:
Civil fines.
License suspension or revocation.
Cease and desist orders.
Provides for hearings and appeals processes.
5. Recordkeeping and Reporting (ALAC 530-5)
Licensed entities must maintain accurate records of LPG transactions, installations, and inspections.
Must report accidents or significant incidents to the Board promptly.
Illustrative Case Law Examples (Hypothetical / Illustrative)
Case 1: Smith Propane Co. v. Alabama Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board (2018)
Issue: License suspension for repeated safety violations.
Facts:
Smith Propane Co. had multiple inspection reports citing unsafe storage tanks and failure to repair leaks timely. The Board suspended their license pending corrective actions.
Holding:
The Alabama Court upheld the Board’s suspension, emphasizing the Board’s broad authority to enforce safety standards to protect public welfare.
Significance:
Affirms the Board’s power to enforce safety regulations and impose licensing penalties.
Case 2: Jones v. Alabama Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board (2020)
Issue: Due process in license revocation hearings.
Facts:
Jones, an LPG installer, challenged the Board’s revocation of his license, claiming he was denied a fair hearing.
Holding:
The court ruled that the Board complied with due process requirements by providing notice, an opportunity to be heard, and a written decision.
Significance:
Reinforces that the Board must follow fair administrative procedures in enforcement actions.
Case 3: Johnson v. Smith Propane Co. (2019)
Issue: Liability for LPG explosion caused by improper installation.
Facts:
Johnson was injured in an explosion caused by a faulty LPG system installed by Smith Propane Co.
Holding:
The court found Smith Propane Co. negligent for failing to adhere to the Board’s safety standards and certification requirements.
Significance:
Demonstrates the practical impact of ALPG Board regulations on industry standards and liability.
Summary Table
| Regulatory Aspect | Description | Case Law Example |
|---|---|---|
| Licensing & Registration | Licensing requirements for LPG businesses and personnel | Smith Propane Co. v. ALPG Board (License suspension) |
| Safety Standards & Inspections | Standards for equipment, storage, transport; inspection enforcement | Johnson v. Smith Propane Co. (Negligence liability) |
| Training & Certification | Required certification for LPG handlers and installers | Jones v. ALPG Board (Due process in revocation) |
| Enforcement & Penalties | Investigation, fines, license revocation, hearings | Smith Propane Co. v. ALPG Board |
| Recordkeeping & Reporting | Maintaining and submitting records of LPG activities | N/A (typically administrative compliance) |
Importance of Title 530 Regulations
Ensures public safety by regulating the highly flammable and potentially dangerous LPG industry.
Provides clear standards for licensing, safety, and training, enhancing industry professionalism.
Empowers the Board to take enforcement action to prevent accidents and protect consumers.
Balances regulatory authority with due process protections for licensees.
Supports accountability and transparency through recordkeeping and reporting requirements.
Conclusion
Alabama Administrative Code Title 530 establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the safe management of liquefied petroleum gas in Alabama through the Alabama Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board. The rules promote safety, professional standards, and effective enforcement, which together safeguard both industry participants and the public.
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