Handling and Storing Compressed Gas Cylinders Toolbox Talks

Handling and Storing Compressed Gas Cylinders

Every year, thousands of the workers or people died or get severely injured due to fatal accidents while handling, working, storing or transporting the compressed gas cylinders.

Mismanagement and Misuse of Handling Compressed Gas Cylinders

Most of the incidents occurred when mishandling the compressed gas cylinders which approximately have internal gas pressure of up to 2,500-3,000 pounds per square inch, and such amount of internal pressure can be disastrous and could lead to severe fatal injuries, and fatalities. As per American Welding Society, dropping, tipping over or exposing a cylinder to excessive heat can cause instability or fractures in the cylinder’s frame, which can result in a shrapnel-laden explosion or blast.

The Storage of the Compressed Gas Cylinders

The following measures should be taken while storing the Cylinders:

Always secure the gas cylinders in an upright position in a cylinder cart with a chain or strap properly.
Always store the compressed gas cylinders (CGC) at least 30 feet from any flammable materials in a dry, ventilated place.
If cylinders have to store for a long time, they should be stored in a proper designated and controlled stores with all recommended health and safety precautions.
Oxygen cylinders must be kept at least 20-25 feet from fuel gas cylinders.
All the valves of the compressed gas cylinders must be double-checked whether they are properly secure, closed and all safety devices are working as intended.
Gas cylinders should be kept or stored in open designated secure places to avoid gas buildup.
Warning signs should be used for the storing areas.
Never store the empty gas cylinders with the full filled gas cylinders. Separate both.

The Transportation or Moving of the Compressed Gas Cylinders

Several incidents and serious injuries with compressed gas cylinders while handling or transportation. As being an employer, gas storage warehouse in charge or safety professional, give the following tips, training or information to help prevent incidents when transporting the gas cylinders:

Always follow the appropriate plan and use the correct equipment, tools including safety goggles, gloves and safety shoes.
Handle compressed gas cylinders with great care and avoid falling or hitting with any other hard object or material.
All health and safety initiatives, such as guards or other safety devices are appropriately and or securely installed.
Never drop or roll the gas cylinders while shifting. Use a hand cart to shift or transport.
In case bulk handling of the cylinders, use proper cradles, nets or platforms.