Cylinder Safety Tips

10 Tips for Compressed Gas Cylinder Safety

January 17, 2023

Compressed gas cylinders are used to store gases at high pressures. They can be dangerous if not handled properly, as they can explode or leak if damaged.

Here are some tips for handling compressed gas cylinders safely:

  1. Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as goggles, gloves, and protective clothing when handling gas cylinders.
  2. Store gas cylinders in an upright position, away from heat sources and flames.
  3. Secure gas cylinders to prevent them from falling over or being knocked over.
  4. Use a gas cylinder cart or stand to transport cylinders, rather than rolling them on the ground.
  5. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for handling, storing, and using the gas.
  6. Inspect gas cylinders regularly for signs of damage or wear.
  7. Never tamper with the pressure relief device  on a compressed gas cylinder.
  8. If you detect a gas leak, immediately evacuate the area, and call for emergency assistance.
  9. Dispose of gas cylinders according to local regulations.
  10. Always check with CGA and other Standards Developing Organizations for the latest safety guidelines and standards.

Check out these CGA Standards & Guides for more information:

  1. CGA C-6, Standard for Visual Inspection of Steel Compressed Gas Cylinders
  2. CGA C-6.1, Standard for Visual Inspection of High Pressure Aluminum Alloy Compressed Gas Cylinders
  3. CGA C-6.2, Standard for Visual Inspection and Requalification of Fiber Reinforced High Pressure Cylinders
  4. CGA C-6.3, Standard for Visual Inspection of Low Pressure Aluminum Alloy Compressed Gas Cylinders
  5. CGA C-6.4, Methods for External Visual Inspection of Natural Gas Vehicle (NGV) and Hydrogen Gas Vehicle (HGV) Fuel Containers and Their Installations
  6. CGA C-10, Guideline to Prepare Cylinders and Tubes for Gas Service and Changes in Gas Service
  7. CGA C-13, Standard for Periodic Visual Inspection and Requalification of Acetylene Cylinders
  8. CGA C-17, Methods to Avoid and Detect Internal Corrosion of Gas Cylinders and Tubes
  9. CGA C-23, Standard for Inspection of DOT/TC 3 Series and ISO 11120 Tube Neck Mounting Surfaces
  10. CGA P-1, Standard for Safe Handling of Compressed Gases in Containers
  11. CGA P-2.7, Guideline for the Safe Storage, Handling, and Use of Small Portable Liquid Oxygen Systems in Health Care Facilities
  12. CGA P-15, Standard for the Filling of Nonflammable Compressed Gas Cylinders
  13. CGA P-38, Guideline for Devalving Cylinders
  14. CGA P-63, Disposal of Gases