What are basic safe practices when working with compressed gases?
Following these basic general safe practices will help protect you from the hazards of compressed gases:
- Read the MSDSs and labels for all of the materials you work with.
- Know all of the hazards (fire/explosion, health, chemical reactivity, corrosivity, pressure) of the materials you work with.
- Know which of the materials you work with are compressed gases and check the label, not the cylinder colour, to identify the gas.
- Store compressed gas cylinders in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas, away from incompatible materials and ignition sources. Ensure that the storage temperature does not exceed 52°C (125°F).
- Store, handle and use compressed gas cylinders securely fastened in place in the upright position. Never roll, drag, or drop cylinders or permit them to strike each other.
- Move cylinders in handcarts or other devices designed for moving cylinders.
- Leave the cylinder valve protection cap in place until the cylinder is secured and ready for use.
- Discharge compressed gases safely using devices, such as pressure regulators, approved for the particular gas.
- Never force connections or use homemade adaptors.
- Ensure that equipment is compatible with cylinder pressure and contents.
- Carefully check all cylinder-to-equipment connections before use and periodically during use, to be sure they are tight, clean, in good condition and not leaking.
- Carefully open all valves, slowly, pointed away from you and others, using the proper tools.
- Close all valves when cylinders are not in use.
- Never tamper with safety devices in cylinders, valves or equipment.
- Do not allow flames to contact cylinders and do not strike an electric arc on cylinders.
- Always use cylinders in cool well-ventilated areas.
- Handle "empty" cylinders safely: leave a slight positive pressure in them, close cylinder valves, disassemble equipment properly, replace cylinder valve protection caps, mark cylinders "empty" or "MT," and store them separately from full cylinders.
- Wear the proper personal protective equipment for each of the jobs you do.
- Know how to handle emergencies such as fires, leaks or personal injury.
- Follow the health and safety rules that apply to your job.