COMPRESSED GAS CYLINDER PROGRAM

PURPOSE / SCOPE

Compressed gas is a generic term used for describing: compressed gases, liquefied compressed gases, refrigerated liquefied gases (cryogenic gases), and dissolved gases. Compressed gases may also be referred to as gas cylinders. Compressed Gas Cylinders (CGC) may contain oxygen, acetylene, nitrogen, ammonia, chlorine, hydrocarbons, breathing air, or other gases. Some of these gases can easily catch fire and burn rapidly. Flammable compressed gases have the same dangers as non-flammable gases, but may also ignite from heat, sparks, flames, or flash back if vapors travel to an ignition source. Listed below are some basic guidelines that Winger Contracting Company, herein referred to as Winger, employees must follow regarding the storage, use, and handling of compressed gas cylinders.

DEFINITIONS/IDENTIFICATION

COMPRESSED GASES Compressed gases can present several potential hazards such as being toxic, flammable, and as an oxidizer. These gases are stored in specifically designed compressed gas cylinders. These cylinders pose other risks in addition to the gas hazards because they are also pressurized. These cylinders must be handled and stored very carefully.

Compressed gas cylinders are made in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. They range from small lecture bottles (primarily used for demonstration purposes), to large cylinders. These cylinders are tested under hydrostatic water pressure when manufactured and undergo careful visual inspections. Cylinders containing compressed gas shall be stored in areas where the ambient air temperature does not exceed 52°C (125.6°F). This decreases the possibility of the overpressure protection device that releases gas at higher temperatures. Therefore, compressed gas cylinders should be stored out of direct sunlight and away from steam pipes, boilers and any other heat sources.

Compressed gases are used in a variety of processes such as construction, manufacturing, instructional and research laboratories, medical, and many others and present a number of potential hazards. If mishandled, these cylinders may rupture violently, releasing hazardous contents or become dangerous projectiles. The class of gases that are termed compressed gases are non-liquefied gases. This means that they do not become liquid at normal temperatures, even at high pressure. They are either: A gas or mixture of gases in a container having an absolute pressure exceeding 40 pounds per square inch (psi) at 70° F (21° C); A gas or mixture of gases in a container having an absolute pressure exceeding 104 psi at 130° F regardless of the pressure at 70° F (21° C); or A liquid having a vapor pressure exceeding 40 psi at 100° F (38° C); as determined by ASTM D-323-72. Examples include: helium, nitrogen, oxygen, and argon.

LIQUEFIED COMPRESSED GASES The class of gases that are referred to as liquefied compressed gases become liquid at normal temperatures when they are pressurized inside a gas cylinder. Examples of liquefied gases include: ammonia, chlorine, methane, natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas or liquid petroleum gas (lpg) which are propane and butane.

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REFRIGERATED LIQUEFIED GASES (CRYOGENS) The class of gases that are referred to as refrigerated liquefied gases are also known as cryogens. They are: Kept at very low temperatures. Extremely cold with boiling points below minus 150° C. Heavier than air under cold temperature conditions and can accumulate near the floor. Able to expand into very large volumes of gas from small amounts of refrigerated liquefied gas liquid.

Examples of refrigerated liquefied gases (cryogens) include: helium, liquid nitrogen, and liquid argon. Carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, which have slightly higher boiling points, are also included in this category.

Bulk storage and container transport of cryogenic gases is in liquid, double-walled, vacuum- sealed containers that can be either pressurized or non-pressurized. Pressurized containers have vents, dispensing hoses, and pressure gauges. Pressure relief valves are spring loaded devices set at a specific pressure that relieve excessive pressure, reclose and reseal to prevent further release of product. Non-pressurized containers are typically open-topped vessels or Dewars with loose fitting covers to minimize evaporation or off gassing and range from one to 50 liters in size.

DISSOLVED GASES This class of gases that are referred to as dissolved gases are those that are dissolved in another substance. Acetylene is the only commonly used dissolved gas and it is dissolved in acetone. It is chemically unstable and flammable.

HAZARDS OF COMPRESSED GASES

Both physical and health hazards are present with use of compressed gases. The high pressure in cylinders (4.4 to 6,000 psig) makes the gas cylinder a potential physical explosive rocket that could punch through walls. Some gases may be corrosive which could result in change in tissue and/or equipment at the point of contact. Cryogenic gases have dangers of low temperature, potential frostbite, and they may expand into large volumes of gas that could displace oxygen and result in suffocation. Inert gases and oxidizing reactions may create oxygen deficiency hazards (ODH) by displacing oxygen and may lead to suffocation. The early symptoms may be dizziness and weakness, which may lead to unconsciousness and death. This is also termed asphyxiation. Flammability is a concern especially with the gases acetylene, hydrogen, and propane. The permissible exposure limits for toxic materials is very low and so even small exposure is considered to be poisonous. Oxygen leaks may create oxygen enriched atmospheres which increase the risk of fire and explosions. See a video link demonstrating the hazard at http://youtu.be/ZNiZaVT1mBY. See additional hazards as listed on Safety Data Sheets (SDSs).

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CLASSIFICATION OF GASES - OXIDIZERS, INERT AND FLAMMABLE GASES

Compressed gases can be classified as: oxidizers inert gases flammable gases

OXIDIZERS Oxidizers are not flammable by them self, but will contribute to combustion as an oxidant. Fat or oil is not acceptable in combination with oxidizers. Some common oxidizers: Air Chlorine Fluorine Nitric Oxide Nitrogen Dioxide Oxygen

INERT GASES Inert gases do not take part in combustion processes and they do not react with other materials. An inert gas supplied to a room or limited space will reduce the amount of oxygen and limit a combustion process of a fire. Inert gases are used in extinguishing systems where it is important to avoid water damage - rooms with electronic devices etc. Some inert gases: Argon Carbon Dioxide Helium Neon Nitrogen Xenon

FLAMMABLE GASES Flammable gases together with air or oxygen in the right concentration burns or explodes if ignited. If the mixture is to lean or to rich the mixture will not ignite. Some flammable gases: Acetylene Ammonia Arsine Butane Carbon Monoxide Cyclopropane Ethane Ethylene Ethyl Chloride Hydrogen Isobutane Methane Methyl Chloride Propane Propylene Silane Ignition concentration limits flammable gases

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The Flammable Range (Explosive Range) is the concentration range of a gas or vapor that will burn (or explode) if an ignition source is introduced. Three basic requirements must be met for explosion to take place: 1. flammable substance - fuel 2. oxidizer - oxygen or air 3. source of ignition - spark or high heat

Below the explosive or flammable range, the mixture is too lean to burn and above the upper explosive or flammable limit the mixture is too rich to burn. The limits are commonly called the "Lower Explosive or Flammable Limit" (LEL/LFL) and the "Upper Explosive or Flammable Limit" (UEL/UFL).

The lower and upper explosion concentration limits for some commonly used gases are indicated in the table below. Some of the gases are commonly used as fuel in combustion processes. Note! The limits indicated are for gas and air at 20oC and atmospheric pressure.

Operations: • Use flow restrictors to prevent a sudden large unexpected release. Inert/Flammable Gas Mixtures: • Nitrogen/Hydrogen – Any mixture greater than 5% hydrogen balance nitrogen is flammable. • Argon/Hydrogen – Any mixture greater than 3% hydrogen balance argon is flammable. Additional information on hydrogen use: • Always use Stainless Steel (SS) tubing to convey hydrogen gas. • Prevent hydrogen leaks by carefully connecting gas regulator and tubing. • Keep vigilant for leaks. • Can only be used in spaces with adequate ventilation. • Eliminate likely ignition sources • Always assume hydrogen is present, and verify the system has been purged to less than 1 percent when performing system maintenance on a hydrogen system. Inert gases such as Nitrogen & Argon can be used for purging. • Anaerobic chambers: o Always assume oxygen is present, and verify the system has been purged to the appropriate level when reintroducing hydrogen into a system. o Oxygen and hydrogen sensors are required at all times. No exceptions.

LABELING

Cylinders stored and used on Winger jobsites must be clearly labeled. The labeling must list contents, concentrations, hazard classifications, safety precautions and the manufacturer or supplier according to United States Department of Transportation (DOT) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. Do not remove or damage manufacturer applied labels, decals, or cylinder content information. If the label is no longer legible, contact your foreman or safety team. Do not change the cylinder color. Store cylinders so as to avoid the possible destruction or obscuring of coloring, tags, and other means of identifying the contents.

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REGULATORS

Pressure regulators lower the gas pressure to a useable level. There are two kinds of pressure regulator designs which appear similar: single and two stage. 1. Single stage regulators are used when precise control of delivery pressure is not required. 2. Two-stage regulators give precise control.

Remember: Keep regulators clean, free of surface oil and grease. (Especially oxidant gases). Always use the proper regulator for the gas in the cylinder. Connection fittings, stamped CGA numbers, plaques, and/or decals on the regulator indicate which gas the regulator is designed for. Do not use Teflon® tape, putty, or other such materials on the threads unless specifically required (or applied) by the manufacturer/vendor. A volume restriction orifice installed downstream of the regulator is required for all toxic and highly toxic gases. Specify pressure and flow requirements when ordering compressed gas so that the vendor provides the proper restriction orifice.

COMPRESSED GAS PIPING AND TUBING

PERMANENT GAS PIPING SYSTEMS Installed by qualified personnel Durable and heat resistant materials Steel, copper, stainless steel tubing/pipe Fuel gas Grade T flexible gas tubing with appropriate hose clamps must be used for all petroleum-based products Piping material must be compatible with gas Components: Shut off valves, point of use valves, regulators and pressure relief valves Appropriate labeling May serve an entire building

TEMPORARY GAS PIPING SYSTEMS Piping/tubing runs should be as short as possible Piping may not serve other rooms Appropriate plastic and soft copper tubing acceptable Piping material must be compatible with gas Regulator must step down pressure significantly for piping system Tubing/piping may not be charged (pressurized) when unattended It is only used for short term, experimental process development Appropriate labeling Only experienced lab staff should operate the system

IN ADDITION: Pipelines can suffer pressure changes depending on the ambient temperature resulting in an over- pressurization and must include a pressure relief device. Pipelines must include appropriate labeling, zone shut-off valves, and methods for venting lines between regulators and shut-off valves. Do NOT use copper fittings and tubing on acetylene tanks.

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GENERAL SAFE HANDLING

Compressed gas cylinders must be handled with caution at all times. It is particularly important to protect cylinder valves from breakage and store gas cylinders upright. The following are safety and handling instructions:

DO’s: Make sure cylinders have proper labels including: contents, concentrations, hazard classifications, safety precautions, manufacturer or supplier’s name, and a tag that indicates whether the cylinder is full, in- service, or empty. Accept only properly identified cylinders. If the cylinder is not properly labeled or the label cannot be read, return the cylinder to the supplier. Make sure gas cylinders are not damaged and do not show signs of corrosion. If you notice that they have damaged labels, dents, gouges, burn/heat marks, or show signs of corrosion, then do not accept them and return them to the supplier. Assume all cylinders contain gas under pressure and treat all gases as hazardous chemicals. Label all gas lines leading from gas cylinders clearly. Use, store, and transport cylinders in an upright position unless they qualify to be stored horizontally. (See Storage section below for more information.) Use cylinders in a well-ventilated area. If you need to use a gas cylinder in spaces with inadequate ventilation confer with EH&S (206)543-7388 to conduct a hazard assessment. Spaces with inadequate ventilation may need oxygen alarms or ventilation failure alarms. Move cylinders with a cart or hand truck designed for strapping on cylinders. Secure cylinders properly during storage, transport, and use so that they cannot be knocked over. Make sure caps are in place when the cylinder is not in use and during transport. Make sure access to the cylinder valve is unobstructed at all times. Make sure pressure regulators are equipped with pressure release valves. When turning off the cylinder, turn the gas supply off at the cylinder valve first, de-pressurize the system, and turn off the regulator. Keep incompatible gases stored separately. If the cylinder is not in use, separate oxidizing gases from flammable gases by 20 feet or a one-hour firewall. Note: one backup cylinder stored in the area with the one in use may also be considered to be “in use” and not subject to incompatibility storage requirements. (See Compatibility section below for more information.) Store highly toxic gases in exhausted enclosures (gas cabinet or fume hood). Avoid sources of ignition and open flame.

DON’Ts Do NOT use or permit contact of oil or grease on cylinders or their valves. Do NOT empty gas cylinders to a pressure lower than 25 psi (172 kPa). At lower pressures, suction and backflow can cause contamination of residual contents with air if the valve is open. Do NOT use Teflon tape on cylinder or tube fitting connections, which have metal-to-metal face seals or gasket seals

USE OF CYLINDERS Before using any compressed gas cylinder, identify the gas, its dangers, and emergency procedures. This information can be found on labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and cylinder markings. If you do not know what is in a cylinder, do not use it. Gas cylinders are exposed to many dangers at the job site. Select a location for setting up cylinders which will be exposed to as little contact as possible from moving equipment and material handling. Place cylinders in a bottle rack, chain, and secure them from tipping over. Ensure the complete gas and hose system has been checked for leaks before use. When in use, do not open the valve more than 1-1/2 turns to allow for quick closing. For cylinders that are not equipped with a valve handle, a wrench shall be provided

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and kept on the valve in order to facilitate emergency shutoff. Use cylinders in the order received from the supplier. When the cylinder is nearly empty, the valve should be closed, and the cylinder marked accordingly Close container valve after each use and never attempt to repair or modify container valves or safety relief devices. Never strike an arc on a compressed gas cylinder or make a cylinder a part of an electrical circuit. Never attempt to lift a cylinder by its valve protection cap or guard. Prevent cylinders from coming into contact with electric wires Shield cylinders from sparks or flame when welding and cutting Never store tools, materials, or anything else on top of cylinders Diligently clean regulators and tubing used with oxidizing gases to remove oil and other reducing agents Never take cylinders into confined spaces. Use caution if flow does not immediately start when a valve is opened slightly — there could be a plug in the valve.

HANDLING CYLINDERS Whenever a cylinder is being moved, be sure that the valve protection cap is in place and closed. Secure the container to a cart, hand truck, or other mobile device designed for the movement of compressed gas containers, cylinders, or tanks. Never use valves or caps for lifting. When raising or lowering, use the correct sling, boat, cradle or platform. Always handle carefully. Do not drop or jar. Do not lift with electric magnets. Move cylinders by tilting and rolling on bottom edge. Avoid dragging and sliding. When moving with a hand truck, be sure cylinders are securely held in place.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) Normal PPE is required when handling cylinders: Hardhat in PPE designated zones, safety glasses, gloves, and safety toed work boots.

REFRIGERATED LIQUEFIED GAS/CRYOGEN PPE Wear insulated leather gloves when handling cryogens Wear protective eyewear and face shields Wear smock or lab coat

ACETYLENE CYLINDERS Acetylene (C2H2) is an inflammable gas commonly used for welding. Even though it is very common, this gas can, under certain conditions, decompose into its constituent elements of carbon and hydrogen with explosive results. The explosive range of the gas, when mixed with air, is from 2.5% to 82%, the widest of any commonly used gas. Hence, proper procedures for handling and storing acetylene gas should be understood and followed. Improper storage/handling of compressed gases can lead to serious fires, explosions or releases due to pressure buildup in cylinders or reactivity with other materials. It should be stored in a separate fuel compound, since, acetylene and air form an explosive mixture. As a compressed gas, the cylinders used to store acetylene must be of steel construction and meet certain requirements such as hydrostatic testing. Acetylene cylinders should be protected by pressure release devices, which normally consists of a fusible plug located at the bottom of the cylinder. It should not be combined with any object that contains more than 70% copper as a highly explosive compound is formed. It should not be stored or used at pressures greater than 15 psi, though some of the cylinder pressures are rated for 250 psi, but this is acceptable only when the gas is dissolved in acetone. Several other guidelines that should be followed while storing acetylene are: Always use acetylene cylinders manufactured from steel and wrought iron; avoid copper, silver and mercury, as explosive acetylides can be formed on copper, aluminum, and bronze. These cylinders should always be chained when in use or in storage.

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Never store acetylene within 25 feet of oxygen cylinders. Do not place acetylene cylinders near furnaces, boilers, or other sources of high temperature. Ensure that the gas system is suitable with the pressure rating of the hoses that are being used and are connected without any leaks. Acetylene cylinders should be stored in a designated storage area, which is dry, well ventilated, protected from the elements, heat, and flammables. Sparks and flame should be kept away from acetylene gas cylinders. Never attempt to transfer acetylene from one cylinder to another or to mix any other gas with it in the cylinder. Acetylene gas is lighter than air so any gas leakage could rise. However, certain atmospheric conditions can prevent this. Do not use a partly discharged acetylene cylinder to supply a large welding or heating tip for outdoor work in very cold weather. Always cap and secure stored cylinders upright to prevent them from falling over and damaging the valve or cylinder. After use of acetylene welding or burning gear, cylinder valves must be closed and the gas lines purged, regulators removed, and all equipment stored in a safe place.

ARGON CYLINDERS Belonging to the family of rare inert gases, argon is the most abundant of the rare gases, making up approximately 1% of the earth’s atmosphere. Argon is a non-toxic, tasteless, odorless, colorless, non-corrosive, non-flammable, and extremely cold, which is commonly used in its gaseous state.

It is used primarily for its inert properties in various industries, such as welding and furnace melting applications. It is basically used to prevent chemical reactions. Though argon is more commonly used in a gaseous state, it is commonly stored and transported as a liquid, affording a more cost-effective way of providing product supply. Argon may be combined with several other rare gases for the purpose of filling special bulbs and tubes that possess special color effects. Other industries using argon involves the Welding Industry (as shielding gas from oxidation); the Semi-Conductor Manufacturing Industry (as a purifying gas); and the Stainless Steel Industry (to decrease cost and increase productivity). Argon in gaseous form is stored in cylinders at high pressure. Argon is primarily transported in high pressure “welding bottles”. Several guidelines that must be followed while storing argon in gaseous form are: Argon cylinders must be protected from physical damage. They should not be dragged, rolled, dropped or slid when being moved. The temperature of the storage area should not be allowed to exceed 50°C (122°F) and prolonged periods of cold temperature below -30°C (-22°F) should also be avoided.

LIQUID ARGON STORAGE Liquid argon is stored, shipped, and handled in various types of containers, depending upon the quantity required by the user. The types of containers in use are the Dewar, cryogenic liquid cylinder, and cryogenic storage tank. These containers are designed and manufactured according to the applicable codes and specifications for the temperatures and pressures involved.

The rates of vaporization vary depending on the design of the container and the volume of stored product. The base of all the storage tanks is manufactured from corrosion-resistant steel in order to ensure mechanical stability in case the retention pit is stuck by a liquid argon spill.

OXYGEN CYLINDERS Oxygen gas is a powerful oxidizer which will rapidly accelerate combustion of many materials. Oxygen cylinders are just like liquid oxygen; the concentration of oxygen delivered from a cylinder is 100%. The concept of an oxygen cylinder involves compression of oxygen into a steel cylinder under high pressure, normally a pressure of about

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200 atmospheres. Oxygen gas cylinders come in several sizes and are available in various materials such as aluminum and steel.

Oxygen cylinders should not be allowed to come in contact with oil, greases and other readily combustible substances as serious explosions may result from contact between oil and high-pressure oxygen. Regulators, valves, gauges, and fittings must not have any oil, grease, or lubricant used on them. Do not handle these parts with greasy hands or gloves. Oxygen under pressure forms an explosive mixture when it comes into contact with oil and grease. Regulators, valves, gauges, and fittings must not have any oil, grease, or lubricant used on them. Do not handle these parts with greasy hands or gloves. Never expose oxygen cylinders to oil sprays or mists. Never use oxygen as a substitute for compressed air.

Oxygen is incompatible with all flammable materials and should be stored separately. The risk associated with oxygen cylinders is due to the high pressure of the gas that is contained in them. Hence, extreme care must be exercised in handling oxygen cylinders to prevent contact of oxygen with organic lubricants, rubber, or other materials of an organic nature. Transportation or storage of cylinders shall be undertaken with extreme care. These cylinders should be protected against high temperature (above 51.7°C or 125°F), valve damages, and other physical and mechanical damages. Oxygen cylinders should be separated from other gas cylinders by at least 20 feet and should not be stored with any kind of flammable, combustible or easily ignited materials.

STORING GAS CYLINDERS

It is important that areas that store flammable gases are well ventilated. When designing ventilation systems be aware of the specific gravity of the actual gas. The gas mixture from a leakage will not be homogeneous and lighter gases concentrates along the ceiling. Heavy gases concentrate along the floor. • Ventilation, natural or mechanical, must be sufficient to limit the concentration of flammable gases or vapors to a maximum level of 25% of their "Lower Explosive or Flammable Limit" (LEL/LFL). • Minimum ventilation required: 1 cfm/ft2 (20 m3/h m2) • Recommended ventilation: 2 cfm/ft2 (40 m3/h m2) or 12 air changes per hour - half the air supplied and exhausted near the ceiling and half the air supplied and exhausted near the floor Select a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. • Cool areas minimize pressure increases that can result from heat or direct sunlight. • Dryness deters rust and corrosion. • Ventilation is essential in case of leaks. • Never store compressed gas cylinders (with the exception of compressed air) in environmental rooms (i.e., refrigerated cold rooms or warm rooms). These rooms are not well ventilated and could pose a serious safety concern should a cylinder fail. Always store compressed gas cylinders in an area which is specifically designated for that purpose. It should be well-ventilated and away from highly combustible materials. The cylinders should not be exposed to continuous dampness or any kind of corrosive chemicals or fumes, as corrosion may damage them and cause the valve protection caps to rust or stick. Keep the cylinders clear of all sparks, electrical equipment or grounding cables and electrical circuits. Store cylinders so oldest products get used first. The cylinder must be in good condition with an operable valve. When the cylinder is not in use, the valve protection cap must be in place to protect the valve. Any storage area must be protected from excessive heat, open flame, or ignition sources.

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Do not store cylinders next to doors or in corridors where they could possibly obstruct emergency exit from the building. Compressed gas cylinders should be stored in an organized, ventilated, well-lit place away from combustible materials. Storage outside should be above grade, dry, and protected from weather conditions. Always store cylinders securely. Cylinders should be securely placed on a level surface to prevent tipping over and should not be stored near elevators, gangways, or other places where they are likely to be knocked over. Compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks must be stored in the upright position. There are two exceptions: • Containers designed for use in the horizontal position • Compressed gas containers with a water volume less than 5 liters are allowed to be stored in the horizontal position. An example of a cylinder that may be stored horizontally is a lecture gas cylinder. Gas types should be separated from incompatibles and the areas marked. Guidelines are as follows*: • Separate oxidizers or other non-compatibles (e.g., oxygen) from flammables a distance away of not less than 20 feet or use noncombustible partitions extending not less than 18 inches above and to the sides of the containers, cylinders, or tanks • Use approved storage cabinets or exhausted enclosures Compressed gas cylinders must be secured at all times, whether empty or full. Store cylinders upright and secure them to a substantial, fixed object/surface such as wall, bench, I-beam, etc., with upper and lower restraints made of non- combustible material, preferably chain and Unistrut®. (See the image at right for an example of properly secured cylinders.) • Ensure that stored cylinders are properly secured with chain or a fire proof band. • One strap or chain meets the minimum requirement. • Two straps are recommended or chains located at 1/3 and 2/3 of the cylinder height above the floor • Position the upper restraint no less than 1 foot from the shoulder of the cylinder. Position the lower restraint no less than 1 foot from the floor. Cylinders secured by a single strap have been found to escape the strap during a catastrophic event. • C-clamps or bench mounting brackets are not allowed! • Multiple cylinder restraints are to be avoided • Cap cylinders when not in use. Properly label the cylinders and the storage area. Arrange storage facilities to permit inventory rotation, using cylinders in order as received from the supplier. Store full and empty cylinders separately to avoid confusion. Serious suck-back can occur when an empty cylinder is attached to a pressurized system. Designate an area to store empty cylinders for return to the supplier. An area on or adjacent to your building's loading dock is suitable. Review your cylinder inventory monthly. Return all cylinders that appear unsafe or show signs of corrosion, dents, dings, pitting, bulging, etc. Keep inventories lean - Return empty and unwanted cylinders to the vendor to eliminate potential hazards, save on cylinder rental bills, and avoid possible reconditioning fees. Some vendors charge a reconditioning fee on each cylinder that is not returned within 2 years. This fee may be significant in relation to the actual cost of the gas. Do not keep non-corrosive gases longer than 5 years from the last hydrostatic test date (usually stamped just below the neck of the cylinder) unless otherwise regulated.

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Stored oxygen cylinders must be separated from acetylene or other fuel gases by a minimum distance of 20 feet or by a non-combustible barrier at least 5 feet high and having a fire-resistance rating of at least one-half hour. Flammable gases storage: • Separate from cylinders containing oxidizing gases by a minimum distance of 20 feet or by a noncombustible partition extending not less than 18 inches above and to the sides of the stored material. • Flammable gases can be stored/used in the open lab if they are stored/used appropriately. If they are stored/used in an approved gas cabinet, the gas cabinet must be equipped with fire sprinklers. • Never store flammable gases near ignition or heat sources, electrical panels, unprotected electrical connections, or in corridors. • Keep quantities to a minimum. There are strict quantity limits as determined by Fire Code. • There may be circumstances where using a pure flammable gas may pose unacceptable risks. It may be necessary to purchase a reduced concentration mixture (e.g., 1% hydrogen and 99% argon). Oxidizing gases: • Do not permit oil or grease to come in contact with compressed oxidizing gases — explosions may occur! • Separate oxidizers from cylinders containing flammable gases by a minimum distance of 20 feet or by a noncombustible partition extending not less than 18 inches above and to the sides of the stored material. • Never store oxidizers near flammable solvents, combustible materials, unprotected electrical connections, or ignition or heat sources. • Note: Fire code piping requirements may apply in your facility. Consult your local Fire Marshall. Corrosive gases: • Never store corrosives longer than 6 months (examples: ammonia, hydrogen chloride, chlorine, and methylamine). Cylinders containing corrosives degrade over time.

DISPOSAL

Cylinders of oxygen, nitrogen, helium, argon or other normal constituents of air may be vented. To dispose of empty cylinders, do the following: Remove or deface all labels Punch a hole in the cylinder (if cylinder contained flammable gas, leave open in well-ventilated area for 24 hours prior) Draw a circle around hole and write the word “empty” next to it Contact your compressed gas vendor for pickup.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

The time to plan for an emergency is before one occurs. Each compressed gas has different characteristics. Each compressed gas can have a different hazard. Know each hazard and how to handle them before an emergency arises. The best place to find out how to handle compressed gas cylinders safely and how to address firefighting or emergency procedures, is the SDS or your vendor who supplies the compressed gas. What to do in case of a compressed gas leak: 1. Leave the area immediately and get to fresh air. 2. Call 911 or appropriate Emergency Action Plan phone number. 3. Complete a Winger Incident Report and submit to the Winger Safety Director.

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SOURCE CREDITS:

U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) www.osha.gov Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) www.cdc.gov Airgas: Material Safety Data Sheet National Archives and Records Administration: Federal Register Montana Department of Labor and Industry: Occupational Safety & Health Bureau California State University, Sacramento: College of Engineering & Computer Science Marine Field Service News, 2007 Summer-Fall Edition U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS) L.K. Goodwin Co. Material Handling Equipment www.lkgoodwin.com American Welding Society Safety and Health University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: Compressed Gas University of Louisville: Department of Environmental Health and Safety University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Division of Research Safety Montex, Inc. Training: Environmental Health, Safety, & Risk Management Mechanical Contractors Association of America, www.mcaa.org http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/classifications-gases-d_838.html http://www.ehs.washington.edu/fsohazmat/gascylinders.shtm http://blink.ucsd.edu/safety/research-lab/chemical/gas/storage.html#Basic-storage-requirements

DOCUMENT CONTROL:

Reviewed July 19, 2005 Reviewed November 30, 2005 Revised July 13, 2007 Revised December 16, 2011 Reviewed October 7, 2012 Revised April 1, 2013 Reviewed April 8, 2015 Revised October 19, 2016 Revised July 13, 2017 Reviewed May 23, 2018

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