Gas Cylinder Storage

All compressed gas cylinders must be handled with care.  They must not be dropped, rolled on side, abused or used for any other purpose than that for which they were intended.

Cylinders must be stored in an upright position and secured to prevent falling.  Cylinders in Operating Areas are to be secured with a metallic fastening device such as a slide, chain, cable, or wire of sufficient strength to prevent the cylinder from falling over if disturbed. Rope, web or belt type devices are not suitable for Operating Area service.

Cylinders not connected for use, empty or full, must have their protective caps in place.  

Never store oxidizers and flammables in the same rack. They must be separated by 20 feet or by a non-combustible barrier at least 5′ high with a minimum fire resistance rating of ½ hour.

Empty cylinders should not be stored with full cylinders

Cylinders typically hold pressures of between 2200 and 3000 PSI.  These cylinders can easily become projectiles if the protective caps aren’t utilized. 

Proper labeling of cylinders is also important.  While color coding is often used, it is not a standard and should never be trusted.  Always store the cylinder with the label legible and facing outward.