The contents of compressed gas cylinders can pose a chemical hazard if they are accidentally released. Gases may be cryogenic, flammable, combustible, explosive, oxidizing, corrosive, toxic, poisonous or inert. The sudden release of these materials can create fire and explosion dangers, worker exposure to toxic or poisonous gases, or even asphyxiation (suffocation) danger if the released gas displaces room air.
Proper storage of gas cylinders is paramount to safety. Because unsecured cylinders can be easily knocked over, they should be secured to a stable object. Chains, straps, or cages should be used and should be fixed at approximately 2/3 the height of the cylinder. Cylinders should be stored in well-ventilated areas away from other incompatible materials, sources of flame or heat, or areas where they may receive damage. Empty and full cylinders should be stored separately. To prevent the main cylinder valve from being damaged or broken, the protective cap should be kept in place whenever the cylinder is not in use.
Cylinders should not be dragged, carried, rolled, or slid across the floor. When transporting cylinders, ensure they are not able to bump into each other. To move a large cylinder, a hand truck should be used. The cylinder should be moved individually and should be secured to the hand truck with the protective cap in place at all times.
When opening the valve to a cylinder, the worker should stand off to the side and open it slowly. Valves should never be left partly open—they should be opened all the way or closed. Leaking cylinders should be immediately removed from service and the work environment if it is safe to do so. Cylinders should be serviced and refilled only by trained and authorized supply contractors.
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