Copyright Progressive Business Publications Blue Ridge Safety Association Safety Presentations...

Copyright Progressive Business Publications

Blue Ridge Safety Association Safety Presentations

Compressed Gasses


What is a Compressed Gas?

Definition:– Any materials or mixtures in containers having an

absolute pressure in excess of 40 psi at 70F or in excess of 104 psi at 130F

Examples:– Argon, carbon dioxide, acetylene, helium,

hydrogen chloride, oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen


Chemical Hazards

Corrosive Toxic Flammable Reactive Cryogenic Asphyxiant


Compressed Gases Present Unique Hazards

High Pressure: potential explosive or missile

Diffusion of leaking gases can result in:– Toxic atmosphere– Asphyxiation– Explosive concentration of flammable gas

Lower ignition points: fire/explosion Lower boiling points: can cause frostbite


Identification & Labeling

Contents of cylinders must be labeled – Never work with

unidentified cylinders Always read the label

– Don’t rely on color codes Never destroy, deface, or

remove labels Inspect for damage


Before Working with Gas

Review MSDS sheets– Specific hazards– Special precautions in handling and use– First-aid requirements for emergency

situations– Emergency response information

Follow personal protective equipment requirements– Goggles, face shields, gloves


Moving Cylinders Safely

Use cylinder carts or hand trucks

Secure cylinders with chain or strap

Ensure protective valves are in place

Handle as if full


How Not to Move Cylinders

Lift using protective valve caps Roll or drag Drop cylinders or allow cylinders to strike

each other Carry multiple cylinders by hand Transport with regulator installed Use forklift or other device without

approved attachment


Connecting Valves & Regulators

Check threads on valves, regulators, fittings– Look for signs of damage– Clear cylinder valves of dust or dirt

Make sure regulators match valves– Use only regulators & fittings designated by the

manufacturer for that gas cylinder – Never force fittings– Never modify fittings - no substitute solutions


Safely Opening the Cylinder

Release adjusting screw Position valve away from

face/eyes Open valve slowly If valve won’t open

– It may be damaged– Do not use pliers, wrench,

or other “cheaters” to force it open.


How to Check for Leaks

Whenever cylinder is reconnected:

Ensure lines & fittings are tight & hoses in good condition

Cover cylinder with soapy water– Check for bubbles escaping

If leak is discovered, inform supervisor – If safe to handle, move to outside location


While Using Cylinder

Keep cylinder in upright position

Away from heat or ignition sources

Away from major traffic flow

Valve accessible at all times– Keep valve spindle key in stem (if applicable)

Cylinder valve closed when not in use


What to Avoid During Use

Never leave an open cylinder unattended

Never direct a stream of gas toward a co-worker

Never use compressed gas to blow dust

Never attempt to repair a cylinder valve

Never put oil or grease around fittings


Special Precautions

Corrosives: Know nearest eyewash location

Acetylene: Never use copper tubing

Oxygen: No contact with oil or grease

Toxics or Flammables– Use required flow restrictors– Use toxic only in well-ventilated areas


Emergency Response

Poison Gas– Evacuate area– Close door

Flammable– Turn off sources

of ignition Inert Gas

– Place in well-ventilated area– Notify supervisor


When Finished With Cylinder

Close main cylinder valve

Bring regulator pressure gauges to zero

Remove regulators

Replace protective cap

Return to storage area


Empty Cylinders

Cylinder is empty at 25 psi

Replace valve caps even if empty

Mark cylinders “empty” or “MT”

Never refill a cylinder

Separate empty and full cylinders during storage

Never discard a cylinder in normal trash


Cylinder Storage: Storage Area

Storage areas are:– Designed only for cylinders with appropriate

hazard signs posted – Well-ventilated, level, and dry – Kept at temperatures <125F or >-21F

Keep cylinders away from:– Sources of heat or readily ignitable substances– Corrosive chemicals & fumes– Electrical wiring


Cylinder Storage (continued)

Store in compatible groups

Store in upright position w/ protective valve caps on

Secure to fixed support using straps or chains

Never store near high traffic areas


Summary

Use proper PPE and know the dangers

Move using cart and secure with straps

Keep valve caps on when not in use

Equipment must be compatible and system leak-free

Never fully empty cylinders

Store in designated locations


Thank you for supporting BRSA

We appreciate your comments about the effectiveness of this training method and the delivery system

E-mail your comments to [email protected]

Copyright Progressive Business Publications Blue Ridge Safety Association Safety Presentations...

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