We aim to educate you on the dangers of gas cylinders and store them in gas cylinder cages following Australian WHS regulations by writing this blog post. Regardless of whether your employment is a BBQ stand outside Bunnings or a gas station, you have responsibilities under the law to minimize the danger of those cylinders causing an injury.
Gas cylinder storage has several potential hazards.
Gas cylinder storage in the workplace is fraught with dangers, ranging from the flammability of the compressed gas inside to the size and weight of the metal cylinder itself. Whatever the type of cylinders you use in the workplace, you need to protect them.
The remaining liquefied gas should not come into touch with the cylinder valves if stored upright.
Assuring that they don’t tumble over, they are attached to a chain or rack even when within the gas cylinder cages.
To minimize the chance of leakage, it should be housed in a cage with enough fresh air.
Away from sources of radiant heat and flammable materials.
Separated from one another to prevent the storage of volatile and incompatible gases.
Labelled and marked so that employees and contractors know exactly what’s inside and that it’s been tested to be safe to use.
Correctly securing gas cylinders
Gas cylinders in the workplace are strictly prohibited in Australia. If the cylinders are structurally sound and produced in compliance with AS4332, only filled with the gas for which they were designed and frequently tested, stamped with a current safety clearance, clearly labelled as dangerous items with placards, they are safe to use.
Whether filled or empty, all gas cylinders are considered dangerous commodities and classified as flammable or combustible substances under Australian law.
The cylinders at your job site must be appropriately secured while being utilized, transported, and stored.
Using and storing the cylinder in an upright position is mandatory.
Keep the valve protector cap in place unless you’re using a cylinder.
Consider a custom-made cylinder racking system to keep the cylinders safe from abrasive chains, straps, or cables.
Keep in mind that most cylinder-related injuries and accidents occur during transportation. Because they are frequently large, clumsy, and awkward, they are prone to being knocked over or slipping when loaded into a cart. Ensure your employees are adequately trained and wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriate to the gas they are handling when handling the cylinder.