Gas Container Storage
These refer to cylinders in storage, i.e. not in use or attached to equipment or
instrumentation.
Storage area should be:
- free from risk, away from sources of heat and ignition
- designated as a "no smoking" area (not necessary if building is smoke-free and
posted as such)
- clearly marked as a gas storage area with appropriate hazard warning signs such as
flammable, oxidizer, etc.
- kept clear with access restricted to authorized personnel
- provided with appropriate safety and emergency equipment, including a fire extinguisher,
adequate ventilation, etc. Check the local fire code for compliance requirements
Compressed gas containers in storage should be:
- capped
- stood upright
- properly secured with approved cylinder support
- segregated according to their various categories, such as flammable, oxidant, etc., and
providing 20' between incompatible gases
- segregated in the storage area according to whether cylinders are full or empty
- managed to ensure that the oldest stock is used first (individual labs may not store
more than one each of any cylinders of flammable or toxic gases)
- checked periodically for general condition
Personnel in adjacent work areas should be:
- familiar with the operation and use of the safety and emergency equipment provided,
e.g., fire extinguishers and alarms, main shut-offs, local exhaust ventilation, etc.
- familiar with the hazards of the products stored
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