Special Cases - Compressed Gas Cylinders

The term "compressed gas" pertains to three types of gases:

• Compressed gas
• Liquified compressed gas
• Cryogenic liquified gas

In each case, the gas is under pressure of more than 2,000 pounds per square inch. This makes these cylinders similar to rockets or bombs. If the valve is knocked off or if the cylinder is exposed to flame, the cylinder's explosion is similar to that of a missile and can blast through concrete walls. In short, compressed gas cylinders are incredibly dangerous.

When handling, OSHA recommends the following:

• Seek "expert assistance in moving and disposing of compressed gas cylinders." OSHA does not stipulate who an expert is.
• Handle compressed gas cylinders with extreme caution.
• Record the identification numbers on the cylinders to aid in characterizing their contents.

Employers should ensure that their employees are aware of the potential dangers of these cylinders.

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