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What You Should Know.

Storage Area - Store gas cylinders in a ventilated and well-lit area away from combustible materials. Separate gases by type and store in assigned locations that can be readily identified. Store cylinders containing flammable gases separated from oxygen cylinders and other oxidants, by a fire-resistant wall (having a fire-resistance rating of at least a half hour) or locate them at least 20 feet (6.1 meters) apart from each other. Poison, cryogenic and inert gases should be stored separately. Labels, decals or other cylinder content identification should not be obscured or removed from the gas cylinder. Cylinders should also be stored where they can be protected from tampering by unauthorized personnel.

Storage Area Conditions - Storage areas should be located away from sources of excess heat, open flame or ignition, and not located in closed or subsurface areas. The area should be dry, cool and well-ventilated. Use of a vent hood does not provide for a safe storage area except for when a cylinder is actually in use. Outdoor storage should be above grade, dry and protected from the weather.

Securing Cylinders in Storage - The risk of a cylinder falling over and possibly shearing off its valve demands that a cylinder always be held in place with a chain or another type of fastener such as a bench or wall clamp or a cylinder rack . While in storage, cylinder valve protection caps MUST be firmly in place.

Cylinder Temperature Exposure - Cylinder temperature should not be permitted to exceed 125°F (52°C). Steel cylinders are typically used for more corrosive products. Though they are more durable than aluminum cylinders, they should not be stored near steam pipelines or exposed to direct sunlight. Aluminum cylinders are used for increased stability of mixtures containing certain components and they can be damaged by exposure to temperatures in excess of 350°F (177°C). These extremes weaken the cylinder walls and may result in a rupture. Do not apply any heating device that will heat any part of the cylinder above 125°F (52°C).

Empty Cylinders - Arrange the cylinder storage area so that old stock is used first. Empty cylinders should be stored separately and clearly identified. Return empty cylinders promptly. Some pressure should be left in a depleted cylinder to prevent air backflow that would allow moisture and contaminants to enter the cylinder.

Labeling - If a cylinder’s content is not clearly identified by proper labels, it should not be accepted for use.

Securing Cylinders Before Use - When a cylinder is in use, it must be secured with a fastener. Floor or wall brackets are ideal when a cylinder will not be moved. Portable bench brackets are recommended when a cylinder must be moved around. Stands are available for small cylinders as well as for lecture bottles.

Initiating Service of Cylinder - Secure the cylinder before removing the valve protection cap. Inspect the cylinder valve for damaged threads, dirt, oil or grease. Remove any dust or dirt with a clean cloth. If oil or grease is present on the valve of a cylinder that contains oxygen or another oxidant, DO NOT attempt to use it. Such combustible substances in contact with an oxidant are explosive.