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How Should Compressed Gas Cylinders Be Stored, Maintained, and Handled?
Compressed gases can be hazardous because each cylinder contains large amounts of energy and may also have high flammability and toxicity potential.
The following is a list of recommendations for storage, maintenance, and handling
of compressed gas cylinders:
- Make sure the contents of the compressed gas cylinder are clearly stenciled or stamped on the cylinder or on a durable label.
- Do not identify a gas cylinder by the manufacturer’s color code.
- Never use cylinders with missing or unreadable labels.
- Check all cylinders for damage before use.
- Be familiar with the properties and hazards of the gas in the cylinder before
using.
- Wear appropriate protective eyewear when handling or using compressed gases.
- Use the proper regulator for each gas cylinder.
- Do not tamper with or attempt to repair a gas cylinder regulator.
- Never lubricate, modify, or force cylinder valves.
- Open valves slowly using only wrenches or tools provided by the cylinder supplier directing the cylinder opening away from people.
- Check for leaks around the valve and handle using a soap solution, "snoop" liquid, or an electronic leak detector.
- Close valves and relieve pressure on cylinder regulators when cylinders are not in use.
Label empty cylinders "EMPTY" or "MT" and date the tag; treat in the same manner that you would if it were full.
- Always attach valve safety caps when storing or moving cylinders.
- Transport cylinders with an approved cart with a safety chain; never move or roll gas cylinders by hand.
- Securely attach all gas cylinders (empty or full) to a wall or laboratory bench with a clamp or chain, or secure in a metal base in an upright position.
- Store cylinders by gas type, separating oxidizing gases from flammable gases by either 20 feet or a 30-minute firewall that is 5 feet high.
- Store gas cylinders in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from incompatible
materials and ignition sources.
- Do not subject any part of a cylinder to a temperature higher than 125 °F or below 50 °F.
- Store empty cylinders separately from full cylinders.
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