Recommended Site Specific Procedures
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Securing of gas cylinders
Cylinders of compressed gases must be handled as high energy sources. When storing or moving a cylinder, have the cap securely in place to protect the stem. All cylinders are to be stored and used in an upright position. Use suitable racks, straps, chains or stands to support cylinders.
Decontamination procedures
Not applicable
Designated area
Compressed gas cylinders which contain acutely toxic gases must be stored in a designated area. See the SOP for acutely toxic compressed gases.
Emergency procedure
Emergency procedures address response actions to fires, explosions, spills, or injury to staff. Utilize the information available in the “Emergency 13” flip chart. The following emergency phone numbers should be utilized to initiate an emergency response:
- All emergencies: x13 (Security)
Chemical Exposures: x5-1164 (UHS)
Industrial Hygiene Unit: x5-3241
Hazardous Waste Unit: x5-2056
Radiation Safety: x5-3781
Eye Protection
Eye protection in the form of safety glasses or goggles should be worn at all times when handling compressed gases. Ordinary (street) prescription glasses do not provide adequate protection. (Contrary to popular opinion these glasses cannot pass the rigorous test for industrial safety glasses.) Adequate safety glasses must meet the requirements of the Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye and Face Protection (ANSI Z.87.1 1989) and must be equipped with side shields. Safety glasses with side shields do not provide adequate protection from splashes, therefore, when the potential for splash hazard exists other eye protection and/or face protection must be worn.
Eyewash
Where the eyes of any person may be exposed to corrosive gases, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes shall be provided within 50 feet immediate emergency use. Bottle type eyewash stations are not acceptable.
Fume hood
Manipulation of compressed gases should be carried out in a fume hood if the compressed gas is an irritant, oxidizer, asphyxiant, or has other hazardous properties.
Glove (dry) box
Not applicable.
Gloves
Gloves are generally not applicable. If corrosive gases are used, the selection of gloves materials should be made according to the MSDS and the recommendations of the glove manufacturer.
Hazard assessment
Hazard assessment for work with compressed gases should assure that all staff understand proper use and handling precautions; that all pressurized equipment is properly shielded; regulators are not interchanged between different gas types; all hose connections are properly secured and are appropriate for the pressure(s) used.
EHS Notification
Not applicable.
Protective apparel
Lab coats, closed toed shoes and long sleeved clothing should be worn when handling compressed gases.
Safety shielding
Safety shielding is required any time there is a risk of explosion, splash hazard or a highly exothermic reaction. All manipulations of compressed gases which pose this risk should occur in a fume hood with the sash in the lowest feasible position. Portable shields, which provide protection to all laboratory occupants, are acceptable.
Safety shower
Where any person may be exposed to corrosive gases, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the body shall be provided within 100 feet for immediate emergency use.
Signs and labels
All compressed gas cylinders must be clearly labeled with the correct chemical name and the hazard class warning. Handwritten labels are acceptable; chemical formulas and structural formulas are not acceptable.
Special storage
Cylinders should be stored in an upright position and secured to a wall or laboratory bench through the use of chains or straps. Cylinder caps should remain on the cylinder at all times unless a regulator is in place. Cylinders should be stored in areas where they will not become overheated. Avoid storage near radiators, areas in direct sunlight, steam pipes and heat releasing equipment such as sterilizers. Flammable gases should not be stored near exits.
Transport compressed gas cylinders on equipment designated for this function. Never carry or "walk" cylinders by hand.
Special ventilation
Manipulation of a compressed gas that is an irritant, oxidizer, asphyxiant, or has other hazardous properties outside of a fume hood may require special ventilation controls in order to minimize exposure to the material. Fume hoods provide the best protection against exposure to compressed gases in the laboratory and are the preferred ventilation control device. If you have questions contact EH&S to review the adequacy of all special ventilation.
Spill response
In the event of a spill of a compressed gas that is an irritant, oxidizer, asphyxiant, or has other hazardous properties all personnel in the area should be alerted. Vacate the laboratory immediately and call Security (x13) for assistance. Remain on the scene, but at a safe distance, to receive and provide information to safety personnel when they arrive.
Vacuum protection
Not applicable.
Waste disposal
All empty, partially filled compressed gas cylinders, and those no longer in use should be returned to the supplier. If the supplier does not accept empty or partially filled cylinders, contact the Hazardous Waste Unit (x5-2056) concerning disposal.
QUESTIONS? Contact EH&S at (585) 275-3241 or e-mail EH&S Questions.
This page last updated 11/20/2003. Disclaimer
