Compressed Gases

Compressed gas description

• Definition of a compressed gas – any gas, or mixture of gases, that is pressurized and contained in a cylinder or tank.

1a

Compressed gas description

• Examples of compressed gases• acetylene• anhydrous ammonia• carbon dioxide• helium

• Types of containers in which compressed gas is stored

1b

Cryogenic liquids

• Definition of a cryogenic liquid - matter that exists at minus 200 degrees Celsius

• Examples of cryogenic liquids• liquid nitrogen• liquid argon • liquid oxygen

2a

Handling and inspection procedures

• Ensure gas containers are identified with a DOT or TC label

• Cylinders must never be dropped, slid, or rolled

3a

Handling and inspection procedures

• Use carts or other material handling equipment to move cylinders

• Regulators, pressure relief devices, valves, and hoses must be designed for the specific container

3b

Handling and inspection procedures

• Never interchange equipment between different types of gases

• Pressure relief devices maintain pressure in cylinder at a desired level

3c

Handling and inspection procedures

• Inspect cylinders and devices, and remove defective equipment from service

• Inspect threads on valves and regulators for damage, dirt, grease, and oil

3d

Handling and inspection procedures

• Threads on regulators and auxiliary equipment must match the container valve threads - adapters are not allowed

• Connections must not be tampered with, or forced together

3e

Handling and inspection procedures

• Valves should be opened slowly, with valve outlets pointed away from the user and other persons

• Valves should be opened with the wrench supplied by the vendor

3f

Handling and inspection procedures

• Valves should not be hammered open or closed

3g

Storage procedures

• Containers must be stored upright

• Storage areas must be well-ventilated

• Avoid storage temperatures above 125 degrees Fahrenheit

4a

Storage procedures

• Post the names of the gases in the storage area

• Keep valve caps on containers when not connected to dispensing equipment

4b

Storage procedures

• Keep compressed gases away from fires, flames, and welding torches

4c

Storage procedures

• When containers are in storage, remove:• regulators• cylinder connections• hose lines• similar auxiliary devices

4d

Storage procedures

• Store oxygen away from flammable gas containers and combustibles• 20-foot rule• non-combustible

5-foot high barrier

4e

Storage procedures

• Ensure that the storage area is:• properly labeled• secure• away from ignition

sources• separate from

oxidizing gases

• Types of containers in which cryogenics are stored

4f

Compressed gas hazards

• Inert gases

• Oxidizing gases

• Fire hazards of flammable compressed gases

5a

Compressed gas hazards

• Health hazards of poison gases

• Corrosive gases

• Other hazards

5b

Cryogenic liquid hazards

• Extreme cold temperatures

• Asphyxiation

• Splashing and boiling during transfer

6a

Personal protective equipment

• Eye and face protection

• Gloves

• Aprons

• Foot protection

7a