Cylinders and their appurtenances must be determined to be _______ before being loaded into vehicles.

Cylinders and their appurtenances must be determined to be leak-free before being loaded into vehicles to ensure the safety of transport and prevent hazards such as fires or explosions. The integrity of a cylinder is paramount in handling liquefied petroleum gases (LPG), as even a small leak can result in significant dangers. The NFPA 58 Code emphasizes the importance of checking for leaks as part of the safety protocols surrounding the transportation of LPG cylinders. Ensuring that cylinders are leak-free is crucial because it protects not only the personnel involved in loading and transporting the gas but also the general public and the environment. Detecting and addressing any potential leaks beforehand helps to minimize the risk of dangerous incidents during transit.

While other factors such as whether the cylinders are full or damaged are important for operational considerations, the determination of being leak-free is essential for immediate safety concerns in the transportation process.