Storage and safe operation of gas cylinders-Part 3

There are many experiments in the laboratory that require the use of gas cylinders. There are several situations:
(1) The cylinder is placed in an explosion-proof cabinet in the same laboratory as the testing instruments;
(2) The cylinder is placed in the same laboratory as the testing instruments and fixed with iron chains or other means;
(3) The cylinder is placed somewhere in the building and connected to the laboratory by pipeline;
(4) The cylinder is placed in an ordinary house outdoors, etc.

How to use compressed gas correctly?

When using gas, staff should be more vigilant to prevent injuries caused by incorrect use of compressed gas cylinders.

The following behaviors are prohibited:
1. Trying to mix the gas in the cylinder;
2. Inserting objects (such as wrenches, screwdrivers, pry bars, etc.) into the opening of the valve cap to move the stuck cylinder cap.
Doing so may damage or open the valve, causing leakage. Use an adjustable wrench to remove a tight or rusted cap;
3. Expose any part of the cylinder to temperatures exceeding 40°C;
4. The cylinder becomes part of an electrical circuit;
5. Use oxygen as a substitute for compressed air;
6. Arc strikes the cylinder;
7. Product flows back into the cylinder;
8. Introduce another product into the cylinder;
9. Use the color of the cylinder as the primary means of identifying the contents of the cylinder;

Correct operating behavior:
1. Know and understand the gases and related equipment you will be using. Refer to the supplier's MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) to determine the correct personal protective equipment and any other special requirements for the gas used;
2. Secure the cylinder when transporting or using;
3. Use a pressure reducer or separate control valve to safely discharge gas from the cylinder;
4. Use a pressure reducer approved for special gases;
5. Leak test the pipeline and equipment with inert gas before use;
6. Use a pressure reducer when connecting the cylinder to a pipeline loop with a lower rated working pressure;
7. Use a check valve to prevent backflow into the cylinder;
8. After the cylinder has been connected to the system, open the cylinder valve slowly and carefully;
9. When opening the valve, avoid the regulator and valve exhaust port;
10. Prevent sparks and flames from contacting the cylinder;
11. If the cylinder valve is difficult to operate, stop using it and contact the supplier. The wrench cannot be used on the valve equipped with a handwheel. If the valve is faulty, mark the cylinder to indicate the problem and notify the supplier;
 

The label or mark of the cylinder is the only correct way to identify the contents of the cylinder.