The American University in

Cairo
Compressed Gases & Gas Cylinders
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.101
Definitions
Pyrophoric Gas:
A gas that will spontaneously ignite in air at or below a
temperature of 130F (54.4C).
Cryogenic Liquid:
A liquid having a boiling point lower than -150F(- 101C)
at 14.7 psia.
Toxic Gases:
A gas having a health hazard rating of 3, or 4 as defined in
NFPA 704.
Hazards of Compressed Gases
Physical Hazards
Chemical Hazards
Health Hazards
Physical Hazards
Serious physical
hazards because they
are under pressure.
If that pressure is
released suddenly
through a broken
valve, a gas cylinder
can fly as a missile.
Chemical Hazards
Gases are chemicals, so they have chemical
hazards.
Flammable gases away from sparks, flames,
or source of ignitions.
Corrosives away from incompatible
chemicals.
Health Hazards
Corrosive gases can burn or irritate the
lining of the respiratory tract.
Hydrogen cyanides. Carbon monoxide can
enter the bloodstream and bind with
hemoglobin to prevent picking up of
oxygen.
Inert gases such nitrogen can replace
oxygen
Storage, Handling,
Transportation
Upright position.
Securely held upright.
All valves off when
not in use.
Clearly labeled.
Away from pedestrian
areas, well ventilated
areas.
Continue
When not in use
protection cap placed.
Never store cylinders
in a means of egress.
Mark empty cylinders,
separate empty from
full.
Hydrostatically tested
every 10 years.
Flammable gases away from oxygen (20 feet) or a
wall 1.5 height and hour fire resistant
Continue
Always release pressure from
regulators before disconnecting.
Rely on labels and do not rely
on color code.
Never roll or drag full or empty
cylinders
Transport cylinders on hand
cart and secured with chain.

Use safety goggles when using compressed gases,
use face shield for cryogenic gases
Check regulators for damage, and check all hoses
before use
Continue
Do not completely empty a cylinder to
prevent contamination. (not less than 25 psi
residual pressure).
Toxic gases should be used in fume hoods.
Standard cylinder-valve connection.
Copper piping shall not be used with
acetylene.
Use 30 psi or less for cleaning purposes.
Continue
never use acetylene outside of the cylinder
at a pressure over 15 psig (30 psia).
Safety- or pressure relief valves.
Rupture discs.
Fusible plugs. (100 C)