Gas cylinders have the potential to cause serious injury, damage, fire or explosion if not handled correctly.

• Only cylinders approved for use and carrying current test stamps should be used.
• Use a trolley to move cylinders or get help.
• Don’t lift or secure round the valve.
• Don’t drop, drag or allow cylinders to hit each other.  If the valve breaks off, the stored energy in the cylinder will turn it into an uncontrolled missile.
• Always treat cylinders as being full and handle them carefully.
• Cylinders must be stored upright and chained in a well ventilated place.
• Do not store or leave cylinders by doorways as they may be hit by a passing forklift truck.
• Prevent cylinders rolling about in the back of vehicles – secure them upright.
• Don’t store cylinders in the same area as flammable substances, oil, grease, etc.
• Never use oil or grease on valves, hoses or attachments of oxygen cylinders as there is a possibility of a fire or explosion.
• Open cylinder valves slowly.
• Acetylene cylinders must always be stored and used in an upright position.
• If a cylinder is leaking, warn fellow workers, tell your supervisor and vacate the area.

We hope you found this safety tip useful. Remember that in 2022, workplace health and safety laws are changing. If you would like a FREE consultation with our team to discuss how these changes could impact your business, simply fill in the form below.