Confined Space Cylinder Safety

Gas welding is a form of hot work that requires an oxygen cylinder and an acetylene cylinder, both containing a gas under pressure. Cylinder safety is important during gas welding; hazards related to cylinders include ruptured cylinders, flammable gases, toxic gases, and inert gases.

Only DOT approved cylinders may be used for welding. Ensure that you never drop cylinders, protect cylinders from cuts and abrasions, do not use cylinders for unintended functioning, do not tamper with safety valves, and always place caps on cylinder when not in use. Additionally, never try to repair an unsafe cylinder. Tag it, move it outdoors, and keep it away from heat or flame.

Flammability

Cylinders typically contain gases that are highly flammable, which is why you must be careful that it does not come in contact with an ignition source.

Explosions

Compressed air is often used in confined spaces when operating machinery or even sweeping. Wear eye and skin protection to avoid flying fragments.

Toxic Fumes

The welding process produces toxic fumes. Zinc oxide and magnesium oxide fumes can cause an illness called Metal Fume Fever. These symptoms include headache, fever, chills, muscle aches, thirst, nausea, vomiting, chest soreness, fatigue, weakness, and tiredness. If you are an authorized entrant and feel these symptoms, exit the confined space immediately. If you are an attendant and see these symptoms within your entrant, advise him or her to evacuate immediately, and, if necessary, implement appropriate emergency exit procedures.

To learn more visit our Confined Space Online Training web page.