Key Words: Safety, Compressed Gas, Cylinders

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE

FOR CARE AND USE OF COMPRESSED GAS CYLINDERS

Originated by: ______________________________________________ Date:________

Approved by: _______________________________________________ Date:________
Approved by: _______________________________________________ Date:________
Reviewed and Registered by XXX: ______________________________ Date:________
Approved by: _______________________________________________ Date:________
Distribution List:
Signatories
SOP Manuals Files

SOP Number:

Effective Date:
Page__ of __ Pages

REVIEW OF STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE

REVIEWER

DATE

REVISION
REQUIRED
AND DUE DATE*

NO
REVISION
NEEDED*

* Check appropriate column

SOP Number:

Effective Date:
Page__ of __ Pages
I.

Scope
This SOP is applicable to all operations within the _________________________ that
involves the handling or storage of compressed gas cylinders.

II.

Purpose
This SOP describes safety requirements for the use and storage of compressed gas
cylinders.

III.

References - None

IV.

Definitions - None

V.

Procedures
A.

B.

General precautions
1.

All cylinders of compressed gases should be identified by the supplier as

to the contents by a clearly marked tag or label attached to the cylinder.
No cylinder should be used unless its contents are identified.

2.

Know the properties of the cylinder contents. In addition to the

flammability, corrosiveness, or oxidation potential of the gas, one
should also know the toxic, asphyxiant, or irritating properties.

3.

Handle cylinders carefully. Transport them only on a cart designed or

approved for cylinder use. Never slide, roll, or drag cylinders. Never
move a cylinder without the valve protection cap being securely in place.

Storage of cylinders
1.

Store cylinders properly in a well-ventilated area away from heat and

ignition sources. Secure cylinders while in use and in storage to some
stationary or stable object. Attachment may be by a chain, belt, or rope
of sufficient strength to restrain the cylinder.

2.

Valve protection cap should always be used except when the cylinder is
in use or is connected for use.

SOP Number:

Effective Date:
Page __ of __ Pages
3.

C.

D.

Oxygen cylinders should be separated during storage from combustible

materials or fuel-gas (flammable) cylinders by at least six meters. An
alternate storage method is separation of the oxygen from combustibles
or fuel-gas (flammable) by a two meter high barrier having a fire
resistance rating of at least one-half hour.

Use of Compressed Gas Cylinders

1.

Cylinders, valves, couplings, regulators, hoses, and other apparatus

should be kept free of oil/grease.

2.

Cylinder valves should never be opened without first attaching a

regulator or by using any tool (other than one specifically for that
purpose) such as a hammer or wrench. If the valve cannot be opened by
hand, the supplier of the cylinder should be notified.

3.

Use cylinders only with equipment suitable for the contents. Always use
the appropriate regulator unit. Do not modify regulator fitting. Do not
force connections or use homemade adapters. Oxygen cylinders are to
be used only with regulators specific for oxygen.

4.

Always close cylinder valves when not in use. Close valves on empty
cylinders and conspicuously mark the cylinder as empty, or MT.

5.

Do not tamper with or attempt to repair any part of the cylinder or

regulator.

6.

Use pressure relief valve set for system operating pressure. Vent the
relief valve to exhaust system if hazardous gases are used.

Emergencies
1. Immediately call ________ in the event that a leaking cylinder is discovered.