🛠️ Safe Handling of Gas Cylinders

1. Always Handle with Care

• Use appropriate trolleys or carts when moving cylinders; avoid dragging, sliding, or rolling them.

• Ensure cylinders are secured during transport to prevent tipping or falling.

• Never lift cylinders by the valve or valve cap.​
  
  

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Wear safety glasses, gloves, and protective footwear when handling cylinders.

• Ensure clothing is free from oil or grease, especially when handling oxygen cylinders.​
  
  

3. Equipment Checks Before Use

• Inspect cylinders for dents, rust, or other damages.

• Ensure valves, regulators, and hoses are in good condition and compatible with the gas type.

• Do not use damaged or corroded equipment.​
  
  

4. Proper Usage Practices

• Open cylinder valves slowly to prevent sudden pressure surges.

• Never tamper with safety devices or attempt to repair cylinders yourself.

• Use cylinders only in well-ventilated areas to prevent gas accumulation.​
  
  

Bermuda Regulations:

Employers must ensure safe handling and use of hazardous substances, including compressed gases, as per the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1982.​

🧊 Safe Storage of Gas Cylinders

1. Storage Environment

• Store cylinders in a dry, well-ventilated, and cool area, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.

• Ensure the storage area is free from combustible materials and protected from weather elements.​
  
  

2. Cylinder Positioning

• Always store cylinders upright and secure them with chains or straps to prevent falling.

• Use appropriate racks or stands designed for cylinder storage.​
  
  

3. Segregation of Gases

• Store flammable gases separately from oxidizing gases, maintaining a minimum distance of 20 feet or using a non-combustible barrier at least 5 feet high.​
  
  

4. Cylinder Identification

• Ensure all cylinders are clearly labeled with their contents and associated hazards.

• Do not rely on cylinder color alone for identification.​
  
  

Bermuda Regulations:

Compressed gas cylinders must be stored in well-ventilated areas, away from ignition sources, and properly labeled, as outlined in the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 2009.

🚨 Emergency Procedures for Gas Leaks

1. Immediate Actions

• If a gas leak is suspected, evacuate the area immediately and alert others.

• Do not operate electrical switches or use open flames.

• Open windows and doors to ventilate the area if safe to do so.​
  
  

2. Leak Management

• If trained and it's safe, shut off the gas supply at the cylinder valve.

• Use soapy water to detect leaks; bubbles will form at leak points.

• Do not attempt to repair leaks yourself; contact the supplier immediately.​
  
  

3. Fire Situations

• In case of fire, evacuate the area and call emergency services.

• Inform responders of the presence and types of gases involved.

• Do not attempt to extinguish fires involving gas cylinders unless trained and equipped to do so.​
  
  

Bermuda Regulations:

Operators must be familiar with emergency procedures, including leak detection and shutting off fuel sources, as per the Fire Safety Provisions for Mobile or Temporary Cooking Operations.​

📚 References

• BCGA Code of Practice 47: Safe Use of Individual Portable or Mobile Cylinder Gas Supply Equipment

• Cornell University Environmental Health and Safety: Safe Storage and Handling of Compressed Gas Cylinders

• University of Iowa: Compressed Gas Leak Response Guide

• Air Products: Handling, Storage, and Use of Compressed Gas Cylinders

• Oregon OSHA: Compressed Gas Safety

• Compressed Gas Association: Cylinder and Equipment Safety

• Occupational Safety and Health Act 1982

• Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 2009

• Fire Safety Provisions for Mobile or Temporary Cooking Operations