TRANSPORT OF GAS CYLINDERS

TRANSPORT OF GAS CYLINDERS

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Cylinders containing compressed or liquefied gases are a convenient cource of energy that can be easily trasported to where it is needed. Transported properly they pose little risk but careless handling can lead to the unintentional release of energy with disastrous consequences. Anyone that trasports cylinders in a vehicle should have received training.

HAZARDS

• Flammable and highly flammable gases that form an explosive mixture with air
• Leaking cylinders causing the air in the vehicle to be toxic or an asphyxiate
• Heavy cylinders that may break loose in an accident causing physical injury
• A fire in the vehicle cause the cylinders to burst or explode

HEALTH AND SAFETY POINTS

• If possible carry cylinders in open vehicles, if a closed van has to be used it must have a high standard of ventilation, built into the sides, at least
• Never carry more flammable material than necessary, keep the number of cylinders to a minimum and do not carry other flammables with cylinders e.g. petrol cans
• Always check the cylinders for leaks before setting off
• The cylinders should be secured so that they cannot move in transit and they should also be upright to prevent damage to valves and to make them less dangerous if involved in a fire
• Do not smoke whilst handling or transporting cylinders
• Do not transport cylinders with equipment attached and never use cylinders in a moving vehicle
• Check that caps and plugs are in place and refit any that are missing
• If you suspect a leak whilst in transit, stop and check, and in an emergency phone the fire brigade
• If there is an accident or emergency always tell the emergency services how many cylinders are being carried and what the contents are
• If there is a fire do not extinguish gas flames unless it is possible to shut off the source
• If there is a leak keep everyone away, upwind if possible
• If you are carrying flammable gases then the vehicle must carry a suitable fir eextinguisher, and the driver must be familiar with how to use it
• Always nuload cylinders as soon as possible and move them to a secure well ventilated area, never use cylinders in a closed vehicle
• When unloading cylinders take care, do not drop them but lower them carefully, get assistance, as they are heavy
• Never role cylinders along the ground use a trolley or they can be "churned" for a short distance

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QUSTIONS

• What must be checked before moving off?
• Who should be contacted in case of an accident?
• When should cylinders be unloaded?

SAFETY REMINDER

Compressed gas cylinders are convenient and safe source of energy, but if abused or badly secured they can act just like an unguided missile!