Saturday 23 March 2013

Safe Handling And Storage Of Cylinder Valves And Gas Cylinders

By Ann Jordan


Gas cylinders can be very dangerous when mishandled and treated without respect. They can rupture violently, releasing any poisonous content or become fast moving projectiles. If the cylinder valves are broken off, a container can be propelled as much as a mile high. Considering an average pressure of around 2,500 PSI they can move up to 30 miles an hour in a blink of an eye. There are some basic safety handling and storage procedures everyone can follow to be a little safer.

Always use the least hazardous gas that you can that will still work. Always buy your supplies only in realistic quantities that can be stored and used safely. When your gas supplies delivered or your picking them up, always ensure your bottles can be returned and in fine working condition. Ensure the labels remain clear and legible.

There are some important things you should go through when you receive your tanks. Always check for any leaks. Check that your valves are completely shut off and your covers is completely screwed on. Look at your tanks ensuring they have no damage and are labeled correctly. Do not put them by any electrical connections.

If you find a tank that is in poor condition, damaged, leaking or is possibly mislabeled with unknown contents; ask your vendor to change them out as soon as possible. Separate the tank so it is not mixed in with the good tanks. When moving tanks always wear the proper equipment to protect yourself from getting hurt.

Because all cylinders must be marked it is easy to separate them correctly. When ever it is possible they should always be stored together, in compatible groups. Any full tanks should be apart from empty ones. Empty tanks should be marked with some tape, and remember it is always the possible there may be some gas left over in them. Any corrosive gas should always be stored separate from flammable gas.

Always store your tanks upright in a sturdy position in a place that has no debris or other litter. Any tank containing oxygen must be placed a minimum of 20 feet apart from your flammable gases. Also, if any tanks are left in a cart they should be individually secured using a chain or thick leather belt at all times. Leave any protective caps on the tanks when they are not being used.

Some things you should never do are common sense. Never move a tank by rolling it on the floor. Never attempt to carry them by the valve. Never leave open cylinders unattended. Never try to dispose of your tanks in the garbage. Always use the right attachments for the right tanks. Do not try to find leaks with an open flame.

Basic storage and handling always boils down to plain common sense. The weakest link of all tanks are the cylinder valves. It is critical that when you are not using them that they are closed tightly and any caps are tightly secured. By following these simple rules you ensure a safe work environment for yourself and any people you work around.




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