Cylinder Safety
Welding, cutting, and brazing cylinders may contain acetylene, propane, inert gases such as argon, or oxygen.
Proper Handling of Cylinders
Oxygen cylinders are painted green, while acetylene cylinders are usually maroon or red. Propane cylinders are usually painted silver, gray, or white.
Safety Guidelines
- Use only approved cylinders that have been inspected and tested for safety.
- Store cylinders in dry, well-ventilated areas, away from heat and combustible materials.
Cylinder Safety 101
- Never store oxygen cylinders in the same compartment as acetylene or other fuel gases.
- Keep cylinders upright rather than horizontal.
- If an acetylene cylinder has been stored on its side, allow it to stand upright for at least 2 hours before use.
- Keep cylinder valves closed when not in use, especially on empty cylinders.
- Do not tamper with cylinder safety devices, or attempt to transfer or refill acetylene from one cylinder to another.
- Keep cylinders away from sparks, flames, and hot slag during welding or cutting.
- Never place a cylinder where it could become part of an electrical circuit.
- Open cylinder valves slowly, and never open an acetylene valve more than 1½ turns.
- When using a special wrench to open a cylinder valve, keep it in position to quickly close the valve in an emergency.
- Never lubricate any part of an oxygen cylinder, valve, or fitting, as oil or grease can ignite violently in oxygen-rich environments.
- Do not drop or handle cylinders roughly, as damage to a valve could cause an uncontrolled gas release.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
4-11. What should be done before use if an acetylene cylinder has been stored on its side?
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