Use of Pressurized Gases

The following information and instructions supplement the Safety Policy for the School, and are key elements to ensure that the Safety Policy is implemented effectively.

Gases with potential risks other than from the high pressure nature of the container are covered b the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations.

The gas cylinder pound for Life Science buildings are located:

Guidelines

• Do not use a gas cylinder unless its contents are clearly labeled.
• Cylinders must always be firmly fixed or supported by means of chains, straps or stands or in anesthetic machines.
• Never use cylinders near heaters or in direct sunlight: do not use metal hammers to secure or loosen the pressure regulator.
• Never oil or grease cylinder valves, gauges or regulators.
• When operating cylinders, open the valve slowly at first to prevent gas being emitted at high pressure. Do not over-tighten valves.
• Gas cylinders must always be transported in a correct cylinder trolley.
• If a cylinder is accidentally dropped or damaged in any way, it must be labeled with the name and address of the department and the fault if known and Mr Derek Sellar should be notified at once.
• Never test for gas leaks with a naked flame, use detergent solutions.
• Empty cylinders are indicated by the absence of the seal but 1/2 or 3/4 full cylinders should be left with the full cylinders in the cylinder pound and clearly labeled in chalk with the quantity remaining.
• Never leave unused or empty cylinders in a laboratory.
• Never use an oxygen cylinder in a room near a naked flame. N.B. Only a modest increase in the oxygen percentage of the room's atmosphere can increase the flammability of many materials to the extent that, for instance, electric sparks may ignite them.

Note that gas cylinders are charged a monthly rental fee. If you no longer use gas cylinders, check that they have been returned to avoid incurring expenses for unused cylinders.