AS5034–2005 Installation and use of inert gases for beverage dispensing

Why another standard?

In October 2005 Australian Standard AS5034 – 2005 Installation and use of inert gases for beverage dispensing was released because no definitive set of rules for the manufacture, installation and operation of beverage gas systems has existed in the past.

The Standard was developed in response to a coronial inquiry into the death of a cellar worker from Victoria who died due to a gas leakage.

This standard places significant compliance requirements on any organisation that dispenses beverages and generally requires complete replacement of beverage dispensing equipment and redesigning of cellar operations. The standard connects to and relies upon The Occupational Health and Safety Acts in each State or Territory which place the responsibility for ensuring a safe place of work firmly in the hands of the employer/organisation.

Every employer/organisation has a legal responsibility to;

If a workplace incident or injury occurs you will be required by law to provide documentary evidence of your compliance to the legislation.

What is the Risk?

  1. CO2 and Nitrogen gases are asphyxiants and will cause injury and death if the oxygen content is reduced
  2. CO2 is heavier than air and will fall to the floor and collect in confined spaces unless ventilated (see safety data sheets)
  3. High pressure gas hoses are inadequately protected and can cause injury on failure
  4. Deaths in cellars have occurred and reported incidents are increasing

What needs to be done?

  1. You must comply with the AS5034–2005 Installation and use of inert gases for beverage dispensing and you must guarantee that your workplace is safe to work in accordance with State and Territory Legislation.
  2. You must become proactive and assess your workplace, replace faulty and non compliant equipment and train your staff. This should be done in a structured managed approach that involves all employees, contractors and service providers.

How we can help

Gas Safety Solutions specialise in;

  1. Implementing standardized structured safety management systems across the entire business
  2. Risk identification of all areas and aspects of Australian Standard AS 5034 in relation to installation of CO2 gas supply systems and beverage dispensing equipment
  3. Training of all stakeholders including service technicians, bar and cellar staff and sub contractors to our Nationally Recognised Training Course in Design, Installation, Use and Maintenance of Beverage Gas Systems NTIS CODE: 9139 NSW