Pressurised Gases

Transport

• Use only the designated cart.
• The protecting cap must be mounted during transport.
• Never roll or drag a gas bottle on the floor.

In the laboratory

• Remember that some gases react violently with certain materials.
• Standing gas cylinders should be safeguarded from tipping with at least a fire-proof chain.
• No part of the gas cylinder must be exposed to temperatures above 40 C for liquids and 60 C for pressurized gases.
• The pressure reducing valves should not be left on the bottle, except if used very often.

Valves and fittings

• Use the correct valve for the gas you're employing (especially for oxygen).
• Left-hand thread for combustible gases
• Right-hand thread for incombustible gases

Storage

• If stored over longer periods of time, pressurised gas cylinders should only be kept in well ventilated, dry and sufficiently fire-proof rooms.
• A laboratory is not suited for the storage of gas cylinders.
• Non-flammable fixtures must be in place to prevent tipping of the cylinders.
• Full and empty bottles should be stored separately. The empty bottles should be marked clearly.

Warning sign