[Linked Image] The Belize Bureau of Standards has announced several new protocols to be introduced in the butane industry by the Technical Committee for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). The biggest change is in the area of pricing and quality of the substance. In the past, the Ministry conducted periodic review of prices based on invoice submissions from the LPG importers. Those invoices did not always reflect the quality and origin of the product. In an effort to achieve stability in domestic prices and standardization of quality for LPG, the Bureau has implemented a new LPG Importation Protocol to be adopted by all importers and domestic producers, regardless of product origin. An established minimum standard mixture of 60:40 propane to butane will be implemented to ensure that all consumers receive high quality LPG. Mixtures are to be verified by third party certificates as a means of ensuring that all importers are abiding to the set standards. The Government anticipates that this newly established index will eliminate variations in controlled prices based on source of supply. This index was made effective on December 1st, 2012.


There are also standard specifications for the marking and labeling of gas cylinders; inspection, testing and requalification of portable LPG containers and filling, handling, storage, transportation and location of portable cylinders. These mandatory standards were gazetted effective November 5th, 2012. The Bureau is now embarking on a phased-in compliance program which aims to implement the new standards in the shortest possible time.

The Guardian

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Butane Standards Coming In, Finally

Two years ago - we blew the lid off the butane scam that was stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from consumers annually. Since then, a lot has changed in terms of consumer consciousness -but sadly, in terms of regulation, a lot hasn't - and we'd hazard to say that the troubling status quo has been restored - much to the disadvantage of consumers. Butane trucks are not using scales and consumers aren't demanding it - and without that kind of check and balance- we'd guess that it's mostly business as usual in the butane trade.
But, finally regulations and standards are being introduced. Most prominent among these is the requirement that all so called butane - which is really liquid petroleum gas - now be imported at a 60/40 mix - that's 60% propane and 40% butane. It's a major gain for consumers because when we tested two years ago, some of the so called butane out there was actually 90% propane or more - which burns much quicker than the 60/40 mix. The importers will have to show third party certification to prove that they are importing this mix. And the pricing regime will also change. Instead of reviewing invoices form suppliers - the price will now be tagged to an international index.

According to an official release, The Bureau of standards will now embark on a phased-in compliance program which quote, "it aims to implement in the shortest possible time," - but does not state any specific timeline.

Channel 7