According to an article published this morning in La Presse, it was reported that L'Association Québécoise du propane had repeatedly informed Hydro Québec of its serious concern about the installation of Smart Meters near fixed, or stationary propane tanks.
The article stated that an installation of a smart meter within 3 meters of a fixed propane tank may contravene the rules of the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ), and could possibly present the potential risk for fire.
Hydro-Québec has indicated that they are not aware of the actual number of homes (or other buildings) that has had smart meters installed within, or out of the respected propane tank installation and perimeter related regulations.They are said to be planning to ask customers if they have such tanks on their property.
Hydro-Québec has asked their installers not to install the smart meters if located within three meters of stationary propane tanks. The main concern is reported to be that a 'remote disconnect function' of these smart meters could potentially trigger electrical arcing - and if engaged in presence of leaked propane, could potentially lead to the sparking of fire.
Hydro apparently has assured that citizens are not at risk because the remote disconnect function of all smart meters located outside have now been disabled.
A spokesperson of the RBQ reportedly made a statement implying that any current risk is now eliminated due to the disabling of this function.
Hydro reps said that no incident involving a counter and a propane cylinder has ever been reported but they plan to conduct ‘tests’ to check whether the remote disconnect function can indeed be a fire hazard.
The LaPresse article also mentioned that an investigative television show ‘J.E’ alleged that employees of Hydro-Québec who were responsible for measuring the distance between smart meters and propane tanks had been instructed not to inform citizens of the reason for their presence and not use a measuring tape so as not to “arouse suspicion” according to the LaPresse article.
The article notes that the RBQ has stated that it is the owner who is ultimately responsible for ensuring that his property conforms with the standards but may perhaps be unclear as to the responsibility when a third party like Hydro are involved.
For the many of us who have installed these stationary tanks for our propane fireplaces or kitchen appliances, does this worry you?
Does the LaPresse article generate more concerns in respect to Smart Meter installation in our community?
Let us know your comments on our Chateauguay Citizen Facebook page!
Read the article at La Presse.
ChateauguayCitizen.com
(article source Lapresse/photo via wikipedia)