Gas cylinders toolbox talk

What it is

Compressed or liquefied gas cylinders that are damaged, dropped, knocked over or heated, and can leak or release gas under pressure.

Controls to check, most effective first

1. Store cylinders upright and secured with chains or brackets in a ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources.
2. Separate oxygen and other oxidising gases from flammable gas cylinders, and keep full and empty cylinders apart.
3. Move cylinders on a purpose-built trolley, and fit valve caps or guards before transport.
4. Transport cylinders upright and restrained in a ventilated area, never inside an enclosed vehicle cabin.
5. Fit flashback arrestors to oxy-fuel equipment, and check hoses, regulators and fittings before each use.
6. Test connections for leaks with soapy water or leak-detection fluid, never a flame, and close valves when work stops.

Where it comes up on the job

Work steps from SafetyDocs templates that deal with gas cylinders:

• Connecting valve sets & pipework, cutting & welding pipe & fittings to pipeHold a hot work permit and handle gas cylinders and fire risks safelyFrom Pipework Mechanical
• Cylinder handling & transportStore, handle and transport gas cylinders safelyFrom Gas-Water Leak Detection
• Cylinder transportSecure and separate gas cylinders for transportFrom Refrigeration
• Pre-operational inspectionInspect inert gas cylinders and gas detecting equipment before useFrom Gas-Water Leak Detection
• Work area set-upSet up the work area to avoid cylinder damage, gas contact and manual handling injuries.From Refrigerant Gas

Questions for the crew

1. Where could gas cylinders come up on this job today?
2. The most effective control is: “Store cylinders upright and secured with chains or brackets in a ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources”. Can we do that here? If not, why not?
3. Which controls for gas cylinders are missing or not working on this site?
4. When would you stop work because of gas cylinders, and who would you tell?
5. How do we report a hazard, a near miss or an incident on this job?