Handling and Storage of Gas Cylinders

Dispense gas cylinders are heavy and are filled with gas held under high pressure

Handling and Storage of Gas Cylinders

Standard size dispense gas cylinders weigh about 16kg when empty and around 20kg when filled (depending on the gas or gas mixture), and larger cylinders can be nearly five times heavier.

Perhaps even more importantly, they are filled with gas held at high pressure and, if a cylinder discharges or ruptures there are likely to be serious consequences.

Gas cylinders must be handled and stored carefully in accordance with the Manual Handling Regulations 1992 and other health and safety guidelines.

Guide to manual handling procedures

  • ALWAYS
    keep cylinder stocks to the necessary minimum for your volume of trade
  • ALWAYS
    only use cylinders filled by a reputable gas supplier who fills and regularly tests cylinders in accordance with current regulations

  • ALWAYS
    return gas cylinders to the supplier you purchased them from – and to no-one else
  • ALWAYS
    have spare washers available to replace worn washers which may cause leaks at the cylinder connection
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  • NEVER
    fill one gas cylinder from another - this is extremely dangerous
  • NEVER
    carry gas cylinders in a car or other closed vehicle
  • NEVER
    connect gas cylinders to any equipment other than the primary regulator

  • NEVER
    drop, throw or mishandle cylinders
  • NEVER
    use cylinders for anything other than storing and delivering dispense gas
  • NEVER
    oil or lubricate cylinder valves
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In the cellar

The cellar, where cylinders are stored, handled or connected, should be checked periodically to make sure it is a safe working environment.
 
Here are some of the safety precautions which should be observed to avoid risks to people working in the cellar:

  • ALWAYS
    restrict entry to the cellar, allowing only trained persons to enter and work there
  • ALWAYS
    display appropriate warning signs and safety procedures
  • ALWAYS
    ensure the cellar is adequately ventilated

  • ALWAYS
    clean up spillages immediately to prevent slipping hazards
  • ALWAYS
    ensure the cellar has adequate lighting
  • ALWAYS
    secure cylinders safely, whether in use or not
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  • NEVER
    stand cylinders on uneven floors. The cylinder may fall, causing injury or damage

  • NEVER
    obstruct access to or from the cellar, which can prevent escape in the event of an emergency
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Safe handling of dispense gas cylinders

Incorrect handling of heavy, awkward cylinders can cause personal injury; particularly to the back, neck or arms.  The risks involved in moving cylinders will differ depending on the nature of the cellar.
 
In underground cellars, manoeuvring cylinders in the drop of a stair requires special consideration.
 
Large cylinders should only be stored in underground cellars where there is suitable access and lifting equipment to move or handle them safely.

  • ALWAYS
    use protective gloves and footwear when handling cylinders
  • ALWAYS
    use suitable equipment such a trolley or mechanical lift for moving large cylinders

  • ALWAYS
    carry cylinders close to the body
  • ALWAYS
    secure cellar flaps during delivery of cylinders and protect the opening with barriers
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  • NEVER
    lift a cylinder over 25kg in weight by yourself; this can cause muscle strain or back injury
  • NEVER
    lift cylinders above chest height

  • NEVER
    reach for and lift cylinders from behind stacks of crates or kegs; this can cause strain or injury
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Manual handling is also involved in the movement of casks, kegs, crates, cases and other materials. You should ensure that staff moving such objects are trained to:

  • use correct techniques for lifting heavy objects
  • consider the weight and balance of loads
  • reduce the size or weight of the load wherever possible for easier and safer handling

Storing unused cylinders

  • ALWAYS
    store and secure the cylinder in an upright position
  • ALWAYS
    return all empties to the gas supplier you purchased them from

  • ALWAYS
    store full cylinders in an area away from cylinders in use
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  • NEVER
    store cylinders where they may come into contact with water
  • NEVER
    store next to a direct heat source; e.g. radiators, coolers etc

  • NEVER
    stack objects in front of cylinders. Reaching over objects to lift cylinders can cause back injury
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Storing cylinders which are in use

  • ALWAYS
    secure cylinders in an upright position with a chain
  • ALWAYS
    connect to a primary regulator valve, either directly or through a high pressure hose

  • ALWAYS
    keep away from sources of heat
  • ALWAYS
    check the cylinder label before using it. Ensure that the correct gas mixture is connected to the line (BOC Sureserve labels are colour coded for easy identification)
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  • NEVER
    touch a frosted cylinder. Frosting usually indicates a rapid release of gas

  • NEVER
    try to unscrew the valve fittings on the cylinder
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Using a trolley for moving several cylinders reduces the risk of injury and saves time.

Carrying a cylinder close to the body reduces the stress on the back.

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