Use & Storage Research Experiments & Systems Emergency procedures
Additional Training Will Be Required
If you don’t understand ask questions! If you forget ask questions! If it doesn’t seem right ask questions!
We would rather answer questions than deal with a accident……
This training provides information about safe handling, storage and general hazards of compressed gases. It does not provide specific detailed training necessary to safely install or use compressed gases. Prior to actual use of any compressed gases your supervisor will need to provide operation specific training in this area.
Regulations for Compressed Gas Use & Storage
Compressed gas use & storage are regulated by different organizations.• California Fire Code• Occupational Safety & Health Administration
(CalOSHA)• Santa Clara County Environmental Health
Department
Characteristics of Gases
Gases are much lighter than liquids & solids.
The molecules of a gas are always in motion.
Escaped gases will eventually distribute themselves throughout the air in a room or other confined space.
Some gases have odors, some do not.
Most gases are invisible, some can be seen.
All gases have some property that can be hazardous to you.
High Pressure Asphyxiation Flammability Explosion Toxicity Corrosion Oxidation Pyrophoric Cryogenic
Purchasing/ Receiving Gases
REDUCE YOUR RISKS! Select the lowest concentration of hazardous gas
that will allow you to perform your experiment. Purchase the smallest quantities to satisfy your
research needs. Select only gases that are delivered in returnable
containers When receiving gas cylinders:
• Check for leaks• Visually inspect for damage• Ensure valve cover and shipping cap are
properly in place.• Check that cylinder is properly labeled
Cylinder Story
Cylinders come in different sizes, shapes and colors
Remember the gas supplier must label the cylinder with the contentsCheck the label before you accept, move or use the cylinder.
Safe Handling of Gas Cylinders
Before handling, make sure that valve cap is secured
Transport gas cylinders using only a suitable cart Always take the safest most direct route when
transporting gas cylinders
Never leave un-restrained cylinders un-attended
Safe Storage of Compressed Gas Cylinders
Only store cylinders in authorized locations. Separation of incompatibles (check SU storage group
information) Restricted access to compressed gas cylinder storage. Store away from main building access/ egress points
Safe Storage of Compressed Gases
Attach valve cap when a gas cylinder is not in service Cylinders must be stored upright Metal restraints at 1/3 AND 2/3 height of cylinder Max of 2 gas cylinders per set of chains
Cylinder bench clamps
are NOT allowed
Safe Use of Compressed Gases
DO NOT tamper with the stem and cylinder valves NEVER use damaged regulators, connectors, piping, etc. For cylinders in use, cylinder valves must have hand wheel
attached Close cylinder valve whenever:
• work is finished• cylinder is empty
Label empty cylinders Ensure safe & proper exhaust for purging & pressure relief for
toxic, flammable, or corrosive gases
Additional Precautions
Some gases require special permits and controls for use. These are toxic, corrosive, flammable and pyrophoric gases. Check with SU EH&S during the design of the experiment in order tounderstand the permitting and engineering control requirements.
Research Experiments and Systems
Label all gas lines Remember to check safety devices (check valves, flow
restrictors, pressure gauges, regulators) Select proper construction materials Leak test system before start-up & at cylinder changes Check for proper exhaust ventilation for the lab and
apparatus prior to opening gas cylinders
Emergency Procedures
Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)• Bottom line….Not only are they a good idea,
they are required!
BE PREPARED!• Know your emergency procedures• Know your emergency contacts• Know what to do “if” the unexpected happens
For More Information EH&S Compressed Gas training Guide to Safe Handling of Compressed
Gases, Matheson Handbook of Compressed Gases,
Compressed Gas Association Gas Data Book, Matheson
Occupational Health & Safety Program- EH&S
•Ling Sue Teng, 725-3209, [email protected] Fire Marshal’s Office- EH&S
