How Our Gas Cylinders Are Labeled

How to Handle Gas Cylinders Safely

Different gases have different properties, which means each has its own potential handling or storage hazards. Our compressed gas cylinders are inspected for safety and handled with great care, so when they come into your possession you can be assured they are safe for storage and use. When handling, storing, and transporting industrial gas cylinders, certain best practices should be followed. Here are some key high-pressure gas-cylinder handling tips that should help you keep your employees safe.

1. Always know what is being handled – Our cylinder labels should allow you to clearly identify the contents of the cylinder. This is especially the case when dealing with flammable or hazardous compressed gases. We make sure all labels are clear and readable, but if the label is damaged in shipment or is missing, the cylinder shouldn’t be used. The cylinder paint color is not an appropriate method of identification and not standardized in the industry.
2. Make sure your cylinders are in a safe condition – If you notice any of your cylinders have impact damage, discoloration, or signs of heat damage, contact us immediately so we can assist you with the proper handling procedures.
3. Always store cylinders correctly – Filled gas cylinders must be kept vertical, and the area where they are stored should be well-ventilated, away from heat sources, separate from other products or raw materials, and segregated by type.
4. Store full and empty cylinders separately – You can’t tell if the cylinder is full or empty by looking at it, so you will need to have an effective, common-sense procedure to keep and store cylinders separately. Also, it’s best to rotate your stock so older cylinders are used first.
5. Secure cylinders properly when transporting – Cylinders should be secured with straps or chocks to prevent them from falling and moving around. Pay special attention to the valves, as they need to be protected and kept closed when on the move. If equipped with a threaded cap it is required to be in place during transport.
6. Use safe lifting techniques – When you need to lift a cylinder, take a firm hold around the neck or collar with both hands. Keep your back straight and move into the cylinder as you lift it. Never lift a cylinder by its valve or the hand-wheel. If the cylinder falls, don’t try to catch it; move away from the direction of the impact.

While this article is intended to provide general awareness around cylinder labeling and safety it should not be considered all inclusive or specific to a certain application. If you are in need of specific questions regarding one of our many products please contact us at 314-644-3500 or refer to our SDS library.