Safety Tips In Handling Cylinder Valves

By Helene Norris


Because compressed gases are commonly stored in a tank with heavy walled metals, cylinder valves are needed to be able to regulate the pressure inside. Because the substances usually contained therein are highly explosive or flammable, proper care must be afforded in handling them. Here are some safety tips that should be followed.

One must be prepared at all times for emergencies and this includes having safety equipment located in strategic places. Firefighting instruments as well as first aid kit must be readily available and kept in places where they can be easily reached. There should also be personnel available that have been well trained on their usage.

Ascertain that there has been an adequate understanding on the mechanism of these tanks to be able to discern the proper steps to be taken in case of disconnection or leaks. Regulators and other equipment should be particularly designed for each type. Standard outlets are available for use since use of the wrong equipment might cause accidents.

There are state regulations as well as local ones that have been set concerning the storage and use of these objects. Gases are basically stored in areas which are far from any combustible materials and it should also be well lit and ventilated. Different gases are also commonly stored in different assigned areas that should be easily identifiable.

Another regulations are also set for the type of gases that are being stored and should be observed. Be sure to understand and be familiar with the specific rules to be able to decrease the risks of accidents. Each gas type has its own properties and the hazards they each bring are based on these.

When handling these storage items, be sure that protective personal equipment must be used at all time and these include the wearing of goggles or glasses together with safety shoes and gloves. Moreover upon transporting these objects, the standard carts or trucks should have followed the design suitable for them. Upon moving, use both hands to secure them properly and prevent them from dropping, falling or striking from each other.

Upon the first usage of the cylinder, be certain that it is adequately secured before removing the valve protection cap. Check for any damaged thread and there should be absence of oil, dirt and grease. If the gas contained is oxygen or any other oxidants, do not use it any more if there is oil or grease because this might cause explosion when these substances contact the gases.

Check if all the fittings have been properly connected and it would be better to use valve for single connection although it has been designed for several gases. Also, heating devices must never be applied because if any part of the object will be overheated, it will cause rupture. The storage area must be arranged in such a way the the old stock would be the ones first taken out.

Cylinder valves are very much needed in the right regulation of the inside pressure of compressed gases. They are being held by the force inside depending on the kind of gas contained therein. They will open in case the pressure exceeds the limit, releasing the gas inside until the safe limit is reached.




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