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Appendix B, Gas Cylinder Safety

Compressed Gas Cylinder Safety

Inspection and Storage

  1. Upon delivery, inspect cylinders for damage (dents, gouges, bulges, evidence of leakage or cracks).
  2. Check for a tag to identify cylinder contents - do not rely on color codes!
  3. Cylinder valves should be closed tightly and the valve protection cap in place.
  4. Check for a current hydrostatic test date.
  5. Post the storage locations: avoid blocking exits or access to fire equipment.
  6. Store empty - full cylinders separately.
  7. Maintain adequate ventilation in the storage area.
  8. Avoid storage near high heat sources.
  9. Fasten cylinders securely (use chains or special cradles) while in storage.
  10. Cylinders must not be placed where they might become part of an electrical circuit.
  11. Oxygen cylinders must be stored 20 feet from combustible materials or flammable gas containers.
  12. Outdoor storage areas should be above ground, dry and protected from extremes of weather.

Handling

  1. Valve protection cap should be in place when moving a cylinder.
  2. Unless cylinders are secured on a special truck, regulators must be removed.
  3. When cylinders are to handled by a crane or derrick, use a cradle or similar device.
  4. Do not slid, drag, or bang cylinders against one another.
  5. Do not use cylinders as rollers or supports for other objects.
  6. Use a suitable hand truck or dolly for transporting cylinders. Use life platforms to move cylinders from one level to another.

Safe Usage

  1. Cylinders should be operated and handled only by personnel who have been instructed in proper procedures for their use and the hazards involved. Read the Material Safety Data Sheet.
  2. Never strike an arc against a cylinder.
  3. Cylinder valves should be kept closed except when in use.
  4. Do not intermix regulators or attempt any repairs. Return damaged equipment to the manufacturer.
  5. Do not tamper with any safety devices.
  6. Do not use compressed gases to dust off clothing.
  7. Pressure regulating devices must be in place and operable.
  8. Oil, grease or other combustible material should never be used to lubricate, or clean valves, regulators, gauges, or fittings on cylinders holding oxygen or other oxidizers.
  9. Never use copper fittings with acetylene cylinders.
  10. Before removing a regulator, close the valve and release the gas from the regulator.
  11. Cylinders must not be refilled except by the owner or those authorized to do so.
  12. Cylinders should be safely secured while in use.
  13. Cylinders of toxic, flammable, or reactive gases should be used in fume hoods only.
  14. Do not expose cylinders to temperatures above 130 F. Flames should never touch the container.
  15. Never use a cylinder whose contents cannot be positively identified.
  16. All cylinder connections should be tight and hoses should be inspected before use.
  17. If a fuel gas cylinder begins to leak, extinguish all ignition sources, leave the area and call 911.