Compressed Gases

Compressed Gases

Compressed Gases may represent a hazard because they can be:

Flammable
An Asphyxiant (inert)
An Oxidizer
Corrosive
Toxic
Cryogenic
Under Pressure
Pyrophoric
Or a combination of two or more of these properties

General safe handling rules for compressed gas containers

Labels
The labels applied by the gas supplier to identify the container contents should not be removed or defaced until the container is empty

Color Markings
Color shall not be used to identify container content. Different colored markings do not necessarily indicate incompatible materials. Instead, the primary identifier is the container label.

User Responsibilities
The users are responsible for the safe use of the container and its contents. The following precautions concerning the container and its apparatus shall be observed:

Maintenance of the container and its valve shall be performed only by trained personnel
Prescribed markings on the container shall be kept in legible condition. The user shall not add, remove, or alter any of the markings
The user shall not modify, tamper with, paint, deface, obstruct, remove, or repair any part of the cylinder, including the pressure relief device and the container valve or the valve protection device.
Contamination can occur when foreign substances enter the container or valve. If this has happened or even if the possibility exists, the user shall identify and clearly mark the container and notify the gas supplier of the details of the contamination including the container serial number.

General Precautions
Compressed gas cylinders should not be rolled in the horizontal position or dragged. Use a hand truck with the container properly secured or something similar to move the container safely.

Cylinders shall not be used for any other purpose other than to contain and use the contents as received

Containers shall not be placed where they might become part of an electrical circuit.

Containers shall not be exposed to temperature extremes.

When a container or valve is noticeably corroded, notify the gas supplier and follow their instructions.

The following rules should always be followed in regards to piping ( taken from the Oklahoma State University web set listed below)

Copper piping shall not be used for acetylene.
Plastic piping shall not be used for any portion of a high pressure system.
Do not use cast iron pipe for chlorine.
Do not conceal distribution lines where a high concentration of a leaking hazardous gas can build up and cause an accident.
Distribution lines and their outlets should be clearly labeled as to the type of gas contained.
Piping systems should be inspected for leaks on a regular basis.
Special attention should be given to fittings as well as possible cracks that may have developed.

Cryogenic liquids
Cryogenic liquids present the additional hazard of extreme cold along with the other concerns of pressure, possible flammability, and asphyxiation. They can cause thermal burns upon contact with the body.

When handling cryogenic liquids and/or gases, use these safety precautions as recommended by the Compressed Gas Association, Inc.:

Wear suitable eye protection such as a face shield and safety glasses or safety goggles
Wear hand protection, such as insulated gloves to avoid contact with the cold liquid, gas, or associated piping
Gloves should be loose fitting so that they can be readily removed in the event liquid is splashed into them.
Wear cuff less trousers outside high-topped shoes to prevent spills from being trapped in shoes or allowed to contact the feet.

Links

Compressed Gas Association

Contact info: For questions regarding compressed gas cylinders please contact Tracey Martinson or Richard Deck.

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Page last update on 5/10/07 by A.Chism