Purpose

This guide provides essential information on the safe handling, storage, and usage of compressed gas cylinders, ensuring compliance with safety standards and minimizing the risk of injury or damage in workplaces where cylinders are used.

1. General Safety Principles

  • Always treat every cylinder as if it is full and pressurized.

  • Handle cylinders only if you are trained and authorized.

  • Do not tamper with valves, fittings, or safety devices.

  • Ensure all cylinders are secure, upright, and clearly labeled before use.

2. Cylinder Handling (pages 3–5)

  • Transport carefully using a suitable trolley or cylinder cart—never drag or roll cylinders.

  • Use the correct lifting equipment (e.g., slings, cradles) if moving cylinders by crane.

  • Keep protective valve caps fitted when cylinders are not connected.

  • Never lift a cylinder by the valve or regulator.

  • Ensure hands and gloves are clean, dry, and oil-free, especially when handling oxygen cylinders.

3. Storage Safety (pages 6–7)

  • Store cylinders in a well-ventilated, dry, and fire-resistant area, away from heat or open flames.

  • Separate full and empty cylinders to avoid confusion.

  • Keep oxygen cylinders at least 3 meters away from flammable gases or combustible materials.

  • Cylinders must be secured upright using chains or brackets.

  • Ensure warning signage (“No Smoking,” “Flammable Gas,” etc.) is clearly visible.

4. Cylinder Use (pages 8–9)

  • Check that all cylinders are clearly labeled and verify the gas type before connection.

  • Use BOC-approved regulators and fittings only—do not force mismatched connections.

  • Open cylinder valves slowly and fully to avoid pressure shock.

  • Leak check all connections with soapy water (never a flame).

  • Close the valve immediately if a leak is detected and move the cylinder to a safe area.

  • Always close valves when the cylinder is not in use.

5. Emergency Procedures (pages 10–11)

  • In the event of a leak, evacuate the area and notify emergency personnel.

  • Do not attempt to repair leaks on valves or regulators under pressure.

  • In case of fire:

    • Move unaffected cylinders away from heat if safe.

    • Cool affected cylinders with water spray from a safe distance.

    • Inform fire services of the gases involved.

6. Inspection and Maintenance (page 12)

  • Regularly inspect cylinders for dents, corrosion, or damage.

  • Do not use cylinders with illegible labels or expired test dates.

  • Return damaged or out-of-date cylinders to BOC for requalification.

  • Never repaint or modify cylinders—color codes are critical for gas identification.

7. Key Prohibitions

  • Never use oil or grease on oxygen fittings.

  • Never mix gases or refill a cylinder yourself.

  • Never expose cylinders to extreme heat or electrical currents.

  • Never store cylinders in confined spaces or below ground level.

8. Summary

BOC’s Gas Cylinder Safety Guidelines emphasize:

  • Correct handling to avoid impact or valve damage.

  • Proper storage to reduce fire and explosion risk.

  • Routine inspection to maintain system integrity.

  • Emergency preparedness for prompt, safe response.

Following these best practices ensures compliance with Work Health and Safety (WHS) standards and supports a culture of safety in all operations involving compressed gases.