SAFE WORK PROCEDURES

GAS CYLINDERS STORAGE & HANDLING

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
1.
Compressed and dissolved gases are dangerous goods, and Dangerous Goods Regulation requirements apply for other than minor storages of gases.
2.
Storages of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) are to conform to the requirements of AS/NZS 1596 Storage and Handling of LP Gas.
Task sequence
1. Gas storage

Identified hazards in task

Fire and explosion

Security
Access and exits

2. Placarding

Refer to Dangerous Goods

regulations for placarding
quantities of gases.

3. Handling of gas cylinders

Manual handling

4. Emergency procedures

Fire and explosion

Key processes to be followed

Store cylinders in an upright position in a cool, well-ventilated outside area
(preferably under cover). Keep cylinder valves closed when not in use.
Eliminate all heat and ignition sources in area.
Segregate incompatible classes and gases (flammable gas (e.g. LPG) and
oxidising gas (oxygen) must be 3 metres apart).
Keep storage areas clear of combustible materials and rubbish.
Prevent unauthorised access to gas storage areas.
Do not store gases where they could hinder escape from a building or area in
the case of an emergency.
Drums must be stored in a level position. Do not exceed bay limits when
storing drums on pallet racking.
Warning signs advising of gas and preventing smoking, etc, must be
displayed in areas where gas is stored, handled or used.
Placards must be displayed in areas where gases are present in quantities
exceeding the placarding limits for the particular class of gas.
Where possible, use trolleys or other mechanical aids to move cylinders.
Do not roll cylinders always transport or move in upright position.
Keep protective caps on cylinders (where provided) until ready for use.
Secure cylinders to prevent them from falling during moving.
The escape of any gas will be hazardous evacuate area and notify
emergency services giving full details of the type of emergency.
Keep appropriate fire extinguisher in area where gas is stored.
Follow particular emergency procedures for the type of gas involved.

Precautions / PPE required

Use chains or other restraints to
prevent cylinders falling over.
No smoking or ignition sources.
Placard storages to prevent mixing
of cylinders.
Refer to segregation charts.
Prevent unauthorised entry.
Keep access ways and exits clear
at all times.
Class labels must be clearly
displayed on all drums.
Gas cylinders must have
appropriate class label displayed
on neck.
Observe correct handling practice.
Eye, hand and foot protection
must be worn.
Use chain or strap to secure.
Evacuate all persons to assembly
area until allowed to re-enter.
Stay upwind of gas leak.
No smoking or ignition sources.

PRECAUTIONS:
1. The following precautions should be observed when
storing or handling gas cylinders.
2. Suitable safety and warning signs should be displayed in
areas where gas cylinders are stored or handled.

SWP19 Version 2.0

ASSA Pty Ltd

ThisSafeWorkProcedurewasgeneratedon29/11/2013byASSAPtyLtdforuseonlybyCityofDarwin.

www.assaohs.com.au

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