Compressed Gas Cylinder & Fire Fighting Checklist

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Are cylinders stored in upright position and immobilized by chains or other means to prevent them from being knocked over?

Note tragic accidents have occurred when a cylinder was knocked over, damaging the cylinder and turning it into a rocket

Are cylinders stored away from highly flammable substances such as oil, gasoline, or waste?

Are cylinders stored away from electrical connections, gas flames or other sources of ignition, and substances such as flammable solvents and combustible waste material?

Are flammable gases separated from oxidizing gases and storage areas?

Are oxygen and fuel gas cylinders separated by a minimum of 20 feet when in storage question?

Are cylinders stored away from incompatible, excessive heat, continuous dampness, salt or other corrosive chemicals, and any areas that may subject them to damage?

Note: rusting will damage the cylinder and may cause the valve protection cap to stick.

Is the storage area permanently posted with the name of the gases stored in the cylinders?

Do all compressed gas cylinders have their content and precautionary labeling clearly marked on their exteriors?

Are all compressed gas cylinder valves covers in place when cylinders are not in use?

Are all compressed gas cylinders stored so they do not interfere with exit paths?

Are all compressed gas cylinders "FREE" from corrosion, pitting, cuts, gouges, digs, bulges, neck defects and general distortion?

Are cylinder valves closed at all times, except when the valve is in use?

Are compressed gas cylinders always moved, even short distances, by a suitable hand truck?

Are all compressed gas cylinder connections such as pressure regulators, manifolds, hoses, gauges, and relief valves checked for integrity and tightness?

Are all compressed gas cylinders regularly subjected to leak detection using a approved leak detection liquid?

Note: ordinary soap solution may contain oils that are unsafe when used with oxygen cylinders. Leak detection liquids are available from commercial welding supply houses.

The procedures should include the following:
1- Attached color tag to the cylinder stating it is unserviceable
2- Remove cylinder to a well ventilated out-of-doors location
3- If the gas is flammable or toxic, place the appropriate sign at the cylinder warning of these hazards
4- Notify the gas supplier and follow his/her instructions as to the return of the cylinder

Are compressed gases only handled by experienced and properly train people?

Are compressed gases cylinder proprerly color tagged