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10 Tips for Safely Handling and Using Gas Cylinders
Not
every one needs to know that fluorine will violently ignite many
substances, that Silane burns on contact with air, or that ammonia will
decompose thermally into twice its volume. But if you work with
specialty gases, this information is essential. Safety must always be a
primary goal when working with specialty gases –safety and
knowledge go hand-in-hand.
To improve your chances of preventing hazardous accidents, follow these
Top 10 Tips for safely handling and using gas cylinders:
1. Appropriate firefighting, personnel safety and first aid equipment
should always be available in case of emergencies. Ensure adequate
personnel are trained in the use of this equipment.
2. Obtain a copy of the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) or the gases
being used. Read the MSDS thoroughly and become familiar with the gas
properties and hazards prior to use.
3. Follow all federal, state and local regulations concerning the
storage of compressed gas cylinders. Store gas cylinders in a
ventilated and well lit area away from combustible materials. Separate
gases by type and store in assigned locations that can be readily
identified. Store cylinders containing flammable gases separately from
oxygen cylinders and other oxidants by a fire-resistant barrier (having
a fire-resistance rating of at least 30 minutes) or locate them at
least 20 feet apart from each other. Store poison, cryogenic and inert
gases separately. If a cylinder's contents are not clearly identified
by the proper cylinder markings labels, do NOT accept for use.
4. Storage areas should be located away from sources of excess heat,
open flame or ignition, and not located in closed or sub-surface areas.
The area should be dry, cool and well ventilated. Outdoor storage
should be above grade, dry and protected from the extremes of weather.
While in storage, cylinder valve protection caps MUST be firmly in
place.
5. Arrange the cylinder storage area so that old stock is used first.
Empty cylinders should be stored separately and identified with clear
markings. Return empty cylinders promptly. Some pressure should be left
in a depleted cylinder to prevent air suck-back that would allow
moisture and contaminants to enter the cylinder
6. Do not apply any heating device that will heat any part of a
cylinder above 125°F (52°C). Overheating can cause the
cylinder
to rupture. Neither steel nor aluminum cylinder temperatures should be
permitted to exceed 125°F (52°C).
7. Safety glasses, gloves and safety shoes should be worn at all times
when handling cylinders. Always move cylinders by hand trucks or carts
that are designed for this purpose. During transportation, keep both
hands on the cylinder cart and secure cylinders properly to prevent
them from falling, dropping or striking each other. Never use a
cylinder cart without a chain or transport a gas cylinder without its
valve protection cap firmly in place.
8. To begin service from a cylinder, first secure the cylinder and then
remove the valve protection cap. Inspect the cylinder valve for damaged
threads, dirt, oil or grease. Remove any dust or dirt with a clean
cloth. If oil or grease is present on the valve of a cylinder which
contains oxygen or another oxidant, do NOT attempt to use it. Such
combustible substances in contact with an oxidant are explosive. Always
disconnect equipment from the cylinder when not in use and return the
cylinder valve protection cap to the cylinder.
9. Be sure all fittings and connection threads meet properly - never
force. Dedicate your regulator to a single valve connection even if it
is designed for different gases. NEVER cross thread or use adapters
between non-mating equipment and cylinders. Use washers only if
indicated. Never use pipe dope on pipe threads, turn the threads the
wrong way, or use Teflon® tape on the valve threads to prevent
leaking
10. When a cylinder is in use, it must be secured with some form of
fastener. Floor or wall brackets are ideal for stationary use. Portable
bench brackets are recommended for when a cylinder must be moved
around. Smaller stands function well for lecture bottle use.
For more information on Gas Handling and Safety, and to download a
comprehensive free Design & Safety Handbook, visit www.ScottGas.com.
Scott Specialty
Gases
is an international producer and supplier of specialty gas products and
equipment for all types of scientific, industrial and medical
applications.
Related Articles : Compressed Gas Safety Guide - Gas Monitoring
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