Cylinder safety basics

Your safety is important to us

Safety is the first priority at Air Liquide Healthcare. We take your safety and that of our employees very seriously. This cylinder safety basics guide provides you information on safe handling, transporting and storage of your Air Liquide Healthcare medical cylinders.

If you have any questions please contact us for assistance. Should you require more specific information relating to transporting of cylinders we would recommend you contact Transport Canada.

Safety data sheets (SDS)

How do I work safely with compressed gases?

While handling cylinders

• No smoking or naked flame near a cylinder usage or storage area
• Never use oil, grease based products on the cylinder or any accessories
• Wash your hands with soap to ensure clean and free of oils or hand creams
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (glasses, boots, gloves), particular for large cylinders
• Never use adaptors with valve or force connect a regulator
• Open cylinder valve slowly and point it away from people
• Report any suspected tampering, theft, impact or malfunction of a cylinder or attachment
• Always have the MSDS on hand for reference and follow recommended handling instructions
• Close the cylinder valve and regulator when not in use
• Never drop cylinders or subject them to shock

How do I work safely with compressed gases?

While storing cylinders

• Always display a “NO SMOKING OR OPEN FLAMES” sign
• Storage areas should be kept 3 meters from heat sources or combustible materials
• Store cylinders away from oils or grease
• Never store flammable gas near oxidising gases
• Never store objects on top of the cylinder
• Always rotate cylinders - first come, first used
• Store gases in well ventilated areas
• Keep cylinders upright and restrained at all times
• Separate full and empty cylinders
• If something is wrong with a cylinder
  • Label as “suspect”
  • Put in quarantine
  • Notify us immediately