PHMSA warns against filling unauthorized compressed gas cylinders with hazardous materials.

12/8/2012--PHMSA has become aware of welding kits that contain unauthorized compressed gas cylinders. Over 300 known purchasers have been notified directly.

Individuals and companies in possession of unauthorized welding kit cylinders are warned not to fill them with any hazardous materials.

Filling unauthorized cylinders is punishable by civil penalty and/ or criminal prosecution.

These welding kit cylinders do not meet US DOT specifications, and are not authorized for hazardous materials service in the United States. They have not been inspected nor tested for safety, potentially posing danger to individuals and property.

Characteristics of unauthorized welding kit cylinders:

1. Welding kits contain two (2) high pressure cylinders.
2. Cylinders are stenciled with "Made in China" in white lettering on the side near the bottom.
3. Cylinders do not have markings that identify its type or service pressure.
4. Cylinders are similar in appearance to DOT 3A or 3AA and DOT 8A (steel) cylinders, which would commonly contain oxygen and acetylene used in oxyacetylene welding.