What are basic safe practices when working with compressed gases?

What are basic safe practices when working with compressed gases?

Following these basic general safe practices will help protect you from the hazards of compressed gases:

• Read the MSDSs and labels for all of the materials you work with.
• Know all of the hazards (fire/explosion, health, chemical reactivity, corrosivity, pressure) of the materials you work with.
• Know which of the materials you work with are compressed gases and check the label, not the cylinder colour, to identify the gas.
• Store compressed gas cylinders in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas, away from incompatible materials and ignition sources. Ensure that the storage temperature does not exceed 52°C (125°F).
• Store, handle and use compressed gas cylinders securely fastened in place in the upright position. Never roll, drag, or drop cylinders or permit them to strike each other.
• Move cylinders in handcarts or other devices designed for moving cylinders.
• Leave the cylinder valve protection cap in place until the cylinder is secured and ready for use.
• Discharge compressed gases safely using devices, such as pressure regulators, approved for the particular gas.
• Never force connections or use homemade adaptors.
• Ensure that equipment is compatible with cylinder pressure and contents.
• Carefully check all cylinder-to-equipment connections before use and periodically during use, to be sure they are tight, clean, in good condition and not leaking.
• Carefully open all valves, slowly, pointed away from you and others, using the proper tools.
• Close all valves when cylinders are not in use.
• Never tamper with safety devices in cylinders, valves or equipment.
• Do not allow flames to contact cylinders and do not strike an electric arc on cylinders.
• Always use cylinders in cool well-ventilated areas.
• Handle "empty" cylinders safely: leave a slight positive pressure in them, close cylinder valves, disassemble equipment properly, replace cylinder valve protection caps, mark cylinders "empty" or "MT," and store them separately from full cylinders.
• Wear the proper personal protective equipment for each of the jobs you do.
• Know how to handle emergencies such as fires, leaks or personal injury.
• Follow the health and safety rules that apply to your job.