Moving

The majority of incidents and injuries involving gas cylinders occur during handling or transportation. To help prevent incidents when moving cylinders follow these precautions:

• Ensure safety devices, such as caps or guards, are securely installed.
• Follow proper procedures and use the right personal protective / safety equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, heavy-duty gloves and protective footwear.
• Handle cylinders with care and avoid dropping or hitting them against anything.
• Never drag or roll cylinders, always move them with a suitable hand truck, even for short distances.
• Avoid lifting cylinders by their caps or guards or with magnetic slings.

Using

• Consult Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for safety information on the gases you are using.
• All cylinders being used must have their contents and precautionary labeling clearly marked on their exteriors.
• Always wear approved PPE including eye protection as recommended by the SDS.
• Open cylinder valves slowly with valve outlet away from you.
• Discharge compressed gases using devices, such as pressure regulators, approved for the gas being used.
• Close the main cylinder valve as soon as it is no longer necessary to have it open.

Storing

When storing compressed cylinders:

• Secure cylinders upright with a chain or strap above the middle of the cylinder at all times.
• Group cylinders by the type of gas and segregate by compatibility.
• Store cylinders in cool, dry, well ventilated areas, away from incompatible materials and ignition sources.
• Store oxygen gas cylinders at least 20 feet from flammable gas cylinders or separate using a noncombustible barrier at least 5 feet high having a fire-resistance rating of at least one-half hour.
• Ensure valves are completely closed and cylinder caps are in place.
• Use proper warning signs in areas where cylinders are stored.
• Store cylinders in a location free from vehicle traffic, excessive heat and electrical circuits.
• Store empty and full cylinders separately. Mark empty cylinders "empty" or "MT".
• Note Propane tanks/cylinders should not be used or stored in a WSU building basement. Consult with the Office of Risk Management on the proper use and storage of propane at (313) 577-3110.