DAN ITW Oxygen Safety

Oxygen Safety “Probably the biggest problem with people using oxygen is a lack of knowledge of the risks associated with oxygen use and the measures needed to reduce the risk.” CGA President, Carl Johnson

Oxygen Safety “The total number of incidents related to oxygen is low, but the results of a single incident can be devastating.” CGA President, Carl Johnson

Oxygen Safety Oxygen does not burn: It is not a flammable substance, so on its own it does not present a fire hazard. Without oxygen, substances will not burn Oxygen is an aggressive accelerator Add oxygen to heat & fuel –the fire triangle –a fire will burn

Oxygen Safety Materials that will burn in air will burn violently in atmosphere richer than approximately 25 percent oxygen Materials, like metals, which are normally considered nonflammable in air, will burn in pure oxygen

Oxygen Safety “The volume (size) of the oxygen-enriched atmosphere will increase form the point of use. The amount of oxygen flowing, the size of the room or space, and the degree of confinement will determine the extent of the hazard.” United States Fire Administration

Oxygen Safety “Emergency responders should always consider the space within three feet / 1 meter of the oxygen release point as being oxygen-enriched.” USFA

Oxygen Safety An open flame could be something as simple as a spark Avoid wearing wool, nylon or synthetic fibers These can produce static electricity In this instance, the fuel source (clothing) becomes the heat source (static electricity) Cotton does not produce static electricity

Oxygen Safety All safety procedures used for scuba cylinders also applies to oxygen cylinders No part of the cylinder should be subjected to temperatures higher than 125F/52C Cars parked in direct sunlight can reach internal temperatures of 131F/55C when it’s 80F/27C outside.

Oxygen Safety Opening the valve on an oxygen cylinder too quickly allows a sudden release of high-pressure gas; this may create rapid compression resulting in heat The more rapid the pressure rise from opening the cylinder valve, the more heat produced This heat is sufficient to start a fire

Oxygen Safety Dirt or dust on the cylinder valve or regulator can be the fuel needed Oil, hand cream or suntan lotion (hydrocarbons ) on your skin can be the fuel needed Grease has a high volatility

Oxygen Safety Tips Seek proper training in handling and use Don’t drag, roll or slide cylinders Store in a clean, dry area Don’t pick up cylinders by valve stems Keep cylinders secured, especially during transport Don’t store in car trunk or other enclosed area

Oxygen Safety Tips Open valves slowly Keep cylinders out of direct sunlight Use in well-ventilated areas Keep turned off when not in use Post “No Smoking, Oxygen in Use” signs Assure no open flames Avoid salt or other corrosives

Oxygen Safety Tips Wash hands before working with oxygen Use valve caps or plugs to avoid dirt & dust from gathering around valve or regulator Designate a “clean area” for system maintenance Check system at regular intervals to assure cleanliness and working properly

Oxygen First Aid for Scuba Diving Injuries