LPG cylinders in India traditionally do not have an expiry date (like perishable goods have a fixed shelf life). Instead, to ensure safety, it is certified by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and is regulated by Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO) under Chief Controller of Explosives (CCoE) as per BIS standards (IS 3196, IS 5845, IS 16054) to meet the **statutory testing and painting required from time to time. (ST&P)**.
**Special Features**:
– Cylinders are made of special low-carbon steel with a protective coating, and are manufactured only by PESO-approved, BIS-licensed firms.
– For cylinders manufactured after Q2 2000: First statutory testing occurs after **10 years** from the manufacturing date. – Next testing: Every **5 years** thereafter.
– No set “expiry”—serviceability depends on external factors such as temperature, pressure, corrosion, impact and use. If the cylinders pass the test then they can always be safe.
**Testing Process**:
– In the bottling plant, the empty cylinder is visually checked; Those to be tested are separated and sent to the approved contractor.
– After testing, the next due date is stamped/painted on a vertical stay (collar/shroud) on the right cylinder: alphanumeric code like **A 2026** (Jan-Mar 2026), **B 2026** (Apr-Jun), **C** (Jul-Sep), **D** (Oct-Dec).
– Refilled cylinders are tested to ensure that du-tested cylinders do not enter the market; Distributors verify before delivery.
– No accident has been reported due to the end of the test date.
Amid recent rumors of LPG supply disruptions (related to tensions in West Asia), the government has called for strict action against panic, hoarding or black marketing. The alphanumeric code on your cylinder indicates the next **test due date**, not the expiry—return it for refilling/testing if needed for safety.
Always check markings and contact your distributor/IOCL if due. This system prioritizes safety without “expiring” the cylinder.
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