Compressed Gases

Compressed gas description Definition of a compressed gas – any gas, or mixture of gases, that is pressurized and contained in a cylinder or tank. 1a

Compressed gas description Examples of compressed gases acetylene anhydrous ammonia carbon dioxide helium Types of containers in which compressed gas is stored 1b

Cryogenic liquids Definition of a cryogenic liquid - matter that exists at minus 200 degrees Celsius Examples of cryogenic liquids liquid nitrogen liquid argon liquid oxygen 2a

Handling and inspection procedures Ensure gas containers are identified with a DOT or TC label Cylinders must never be dropped, slid, or rolled 3a

Handling and inspection procedures Use carts or other material handling equipment to move cylinders Regulators, pressure relief devices, valves, and hoses must be designed for the specific container 3b

Handling and inspection procedures Never interchange equipment between different types of gases Pressure relief devices maintain pressure in cylinder at a desired level 3c

Handling and inspection procedures Inspect cylinders and devices, and remove defective equipment from service Inspect threads on valves and regulators for damage, dirt, grease, and oil 3d

Handling and inspection procedures Threads on regulators and auxiliary equipment must match the container valve threads - adapters are not allowed Connections must not be tampered with, or forced together 3e

Handling and inspection procedures Valves should be opened slowly, with valve outlets pointed away from the user and other persons Valves should be opened with the wrench supplied by the vendor 3f

Handling and inspection procedures Valves should not be hammered open or closed 3g

Storage procedures Containers must be stored upright Storage areas must be well-ventilated Avoid storage temperatures above 125 degrees Fahrenheit 4a

Storage procedures Post the names of the gases in the storage area Keep valve caps on containers when not connected to dispensing equipment 4b

Storage procedures Keep compressed gases away from fires, flames, and welding torches 4c

Storage procedures When containers are in storage, remove: regulators cylinder connections hose lines similar auxiliary devices 4d

Storage procedures Store oxygen away from flammable gas containers and combustibles 20-foot rule non-combustible 5-foot high barrier 4e

Storage procedures Ensure that the storage area is: properly labeled secure away from ignition sources separate from oxidizing gases Types of containers in which cryogenics are stored 4f

Compressed gas hazards Inert gases Oxidizing gases Fire hazards of flammable compressed gases 5a

Compressed gas hazards Health hazards of poison gases Corrosive gases Other hazards 5b

Cryogenic liquid hazards Extreme cold temperatures Asphyxiation Splashing and boiling during transfer 6a

Personal protective equipment Eye and face protection Gloves Aprons Foot protection 7a