SAFETY BLOG

Compressed Gas Cylinders 

Utilizing compressed gas cylinders in an inappropriate manner can create many hazards in the workplace.  Employers and employees must be fluent in OSHA compressed gas cylinder regulations to maintain workplace safety.

A cylinder is a pressurized vessel of gas and provides the fuel necessary for the welder's flame.  In a cross-section, they contain gases in excess of 40 psi absolute.  This does not include portable tanks, tank cars, or cargo tanks.

Cylinder Markings

• Each cylinder has markings on it which indicate:
• DOT markings
• Serial number
• Symbol of manufacturers, user, or purchaser
• Month and year of manufacture
• Disinterested manufacturer's official mark
• Retest dates
• A plus (+) symbol indicates that the cylinder may be 10% overcharged
• A five-pointed star indicates a ten year retest interval

 Cylinder Handling, Operating, and Storage

• Keep cylinders and valves free of grease and oil compounds
• Do not lift by valve caps or valve stems
• Purge valves before attaching regulators
• Always attach the regulator before use
• When finished, release pressure in the regulator before removing it
• Open acetylene valve 1.5 turns at most for quick shut-off in the case of an emergency
• Keep away from heat
• At least 20 feet away from combustible materials
• Store in a secluded area where they can avoid damage or disturbance
• Store in well-protected, well-ventilated, and dry locations
• Store away from elevators, stairs, or gangways
• Total amount of stored cylinders cannot exceed 2,000 cubic feet of gas
• Equal to roughly 300 pounds of liquefied petroleum gas
• Make sure to close valves on all cylinders and replace valve protection caps
• Empty cylinders
• Cylinders not in use
• During transport
• Store cylinders with valves upward
• Oxygen cylinder never stored with fuel gas cylinder
• At least 20 feet away
• If not 20 feet, then a 5 foot barrier with a one-half hour fire rating must be placed between cylinders
• Use a cradle, boat, or suitable platform to transport cylinders by crane or derrick
• Do not use slings or electric magnets
• Cylinders shall not be dropped or struck, or allowed to strike each other violently
• Keys, handles, or nonadjustable wrenches shall be on valve stems while cylinders are in service
• Cylinders shall be kept far enough away from actual cutting or welding operations so that sparks, hot slag, or flame will not reach them
• Fire resistant shield may be used
• Cylinders shall never be used as rollers or supports whether full or empty
• A hammer or wrench is never to be used to open cylinder valves
• If valves cannot be opened by hand, then the supplier shall be notified
• Always open cylinder valves slowly

 Despite the fact that the gases used in these cylinders create fire and explosion hazards, compressed gas cylinders can create a projectile hazard as well.  Due to the weight and internal pressure of the cylinders, broken-off valve stems can turn the cylinder into a deadly projectile that has a tremendous amount of force and velocity.  Exercise extreme care when utilizing compressed gas cylinders.

Be safe out there!