Accidents that involve a gas cylinder storage cage can cause serious injuries, even death. This is why having the right guidance and support on how to handle it is the best and safest way. The Health and safety Executive (HSE) is offering guidance and support to whoever owns, manufactures, repairs, fills, or makes use of gas cylinders.
Hazards of Gas Cylinders
A gas cylinder storage cage is where gases under pressure that are used for different purposes such as medical and laboratory, chemical processes, heating and cooking, fuel for vehicles, and many others. But the thing is, problems can happen with this cylinder.
Among the main hazards would include impact coming from the rapid release of compressed gas, explosion or damage from falling cylinders, fire resulting from flammable fluid and gases, manual handling injuries, etc.
Such hazards can lead to injuries and fatalities. This happens when there is no enough training, handling, poor installation, faulty equipment, and incorrect filling procedures can all lead to accidents and deaths.
Handling Gas Cylinders
It’s a must to have enough knowledge on how to handle and use a gas cylinder in order to prevent accidents. Each member in the workplace need to undergo training from a qualified training provider to how to handle such correctly. Below are some pointers that need to be check when handling a gas cylinder.
– Make sure that the gas cylinder is positioned vertically, unless the manufacturer states otherwise.
– Securely restrain cylinders to prevent them from falling.
– Wear protective clothing and equipment all the time.
– Close all the valves of the gas cylinder when it is not in use.
– The valve should be protected with a cap or collar. This will help prevent any damage in case the cylinder is dropped.
It’s important to be very careful in handling the gas cylinder especially when it’s in use. Double check of it stores the right type of gas, the one that is intended for the task and make sure that its regulator and pipework is suited to the gas type and pressure being used. If you have to remove the cylinder, do not drag, roll, or drop it as this can lead to major damage.
Storing gas cylinders
It’s important that the gas cylinder is not kept for an excessive amount of time. Just purchase enough quantity of gas to meet your needs and use the gas that you bought first- first in should be first used. Moreover, it should only be stored in a safe and dry place and on a flat surface and not in a space that is tightly confined. Ensure also that they do not stand or lie in water. Position them on a pallet to void any damage. You should also protect your gas cylinder from external heat that can affect its mechanical integrity and store it away from flammable materials and sources of ignition.
Knowing how to properly use and handle gas cylinders is very important in the workplace. This will ensure a safe working environment for everyone and encourage people to be more productive at work.