Full knowledge of the Chemicals & Gases

Compressed Gases & Gas Cylinders

Definitions

•Pyrophoric Gas:

•A gas that will spontaneously ignite in air at or below a temperature of 130ºF (54.4ºC).

•Cryogenic Liquid:

•A liquid having a boiling point lower than -150ºF(- 101ºC) at 14.7 psia.

•Toxic Gases:

•A gas having a health hazard rating of 3, or 4 as defined in NFPA 704.

Hazards of Compressed Gases

•Physical Hazards

•Chemical Hazards

•Health Hazards

Physical Hazards

•Serious physical hazards because they are under pressure.

•If that pressure is released suddenly through a broken valve, a gas cylinder can fly as a missile.

Chemical Hazards

•Gases are chemicals, so they have chemical hazards.

•Flammable gases away from sparks, flames, or source of ignitions.

•Corrosives away from incompatible chemicals.

Health Hazards

•Corrosive gases can burn or irritate the lining of the respiratory tract.

•Hydrogen cyanides. Carbon monoxide can enter the bloodstream and bind with hemoglobin to prevent picking up of oxygen.

•Inert gases such nitrogen can replace oxygen

Storage, Handling, Transportation

•Upright position.

•Securely held upright.

•All valves off when not in use.

•Clearly labeled.

•Away from pedestrian areas, well ventilated areas.

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•When not in use protection cap placed.

•Never store cylinders in a means of egress.

•Mark empty cylinders, separate empty from full.

•Hydrostatically tested every 10 years.

Flammable gases away from oxygen (20 feet) or a wall 1.5 height and ½ hour fire resistant

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•Always release pressure from regulators before disconnecting.

•Rely on labels and do not rely on color code.

•Never roll or drag full or empty cylinders

•Transport cylinders on hand cart and secured with chain.

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Use safety goggles when using compressed gases, use face shield for cryogenic gases

Check regulators for damage, and check all hoses before use

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•Do not completely empty a cylinder to prevent contamination. (not less than 25 psi residual pressure).

•Toxic gases should be used in fume hoods.

•Standard cylinder-valve connection.

•Copper piping shall not be used with acetylene.

•Use 30 psi or less for cleaning purposes.

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• never use acetylene outside of the cylinder at a pressure over 15 psig (30 psia).

•Safety- or pressure relief valves.

•Rupture discs.

•Fusible plugs. (100 C)