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Copyright Progressive Business Publications
Blue Ridge Safety Association Safety Presentations
Compressed Gasses
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What is a Compressed Gas?
Definition:– Any materials or mixtures in containers having an
absolute pressure in excess of 40 psi at 70F or in excess of 104 psi at 130F
Examples:– Argon, carbon dioxide, acetylene, helium,
hydrogen chloride, oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen
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Chemical Hazards
Corrosive Toxic Flammable Reactive Cryogenic Asphyxiant
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Compressed Gases Present Unique Hazards
High Pressure: potential explosive or missile
Diffusion of leaking gases can result in:– Toxic atmosphere– Asphyxiation– Explosive concentration of flammable gas
Lower ignition points: fire/explosion Lower boiling points: can cause frostbite
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Identification & Labeling
Contents of cylinders must be labeled – Never work with
unidentified cylinders Always read the label
– Don’t rely on color codes Never destroy, deface, or
remove labels Inspect for damage
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Before Working with Gas
Review MSDS sheets– Specific hazards– Special precautions in handling and use– First-aid requirements for emergency
situations– Emergency response information
Follow personal protective equipment requirements– Goggles, face shields, gloves
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Moving Cylinders Safely
Use cylinder carts or hand trucks
Secure cylinders with chain or strap
Ensure protective valves are in place
Handle as if full
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How Not to Move Cylinders
Lift using protective valve caps Roll or drag Drop cylinders or allow cylinders to strike
each other Carry multiple cylinders by hand Transport with regulator installed Use forklift or other device without
approved attachment
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Connecting Valves & Regulators
Check threads on valves, regulators, fittings– Look for signs of damage– Clear cylinder valves of dust or dirt
Make sure regulators match valves– Use only regulators & fittings designated by the
manufacturer for that gas cylinder – Never force fittings– Never modify fittings - no substitute solutions
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Safely Opening the Cylinder
Release adjusting screw Position valve away from
face/eyes Open valve slowly If valve won’t open
– It may be damaged– Do not use pliers, wrench,
or other “cheaters” to force it open.
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How to Check for Leaks
Whenever cylinder is reconnected:
Ensure lines & fittings are tight & hoses in good condition
Cover cylinder with soapy water– Check for bubbles escaping
If leak is discovered, inform supervisor – If safe to handle, move to outside location
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While Using Cylinder
Keep cylinder in upright position
Away from heat or ignition sources
Away from major traffic flow
Valve accessible at all times– Keep valve spindle key in stem (if applicable)
Cylinder valve closed when not in use
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What to Avoid During Use
Never leave an open cylinder unattended
Never direct a stream of gas toward a co-worker
Never use compressed gas to blow dust
Never attempt to repair a cylinder valve
Never put oil or grease around fittings
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Special Precautions
Corrosives: Know nearest eyewash location
Acetylene: Never use copper tubing
Oxygen: No contact with oil or grease
Toxics or Flammables– Use required flow restrictors– Use toxic only in well-ventilated areas
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Emergency Response
Poison Gas– Evacuate area– Close door
Flammable– Turn off sources
of ignition Inert Gas
– Place in well-ventilated area– Notify supervisor
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When Finished With Cylinder
Close main cylinder valve
Bring regulator pressure gauges to zero
Remove regulators
Replace protective cap
Return to storage area
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Empty Cylinders
Cylinder is empty at 25 psi
Replace valve caps even if empty
Mark cylinders “empty” or “MT”
Never refill a cylinder
Separate empty and full cylinders during storage
Never discard a cylinder in normal trash
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Cylinder Storage: Storage Area
Storage areas are:– Designed only for cylinders with appropriate
hazard signs posted – Well-ventilated, level, and dry – Kept at temperatures <125F or >-21F
Keep cylinders away from:– Sources of heat or readily ignitable substances– Corrosive chemicals & fumes– Electrical wiring
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Cylinder Storage (continued)
Store in compatible groups
Store in upright position w/ protective valve caps on
Secure to fixed support using straps or chains
Never store near high traffic areas
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Summary
Use proper PPE and know the dangers
Move using cart and secure with straps
Keep valve caps on when not in use
Equipment must be compatible and system leak-free
Never fully empty cylinders
Store in designated locations
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