Compressed Gases Storage Compressed gases are defined as gases that are contained in a receptacle at a pressure not less than 280 kPA at 20 °C or as a refrigerated liquid. The following guidelines for storing compressed gases must be followed in all laboratories: Compressed gas cylinders (cylinders) must be stored in a secure, well ventilated location, and in an upright position at all times. All cylinders should be handled as if full and should never be completely emptied. Cylinders that are not in use (meaning that the cap is on) must be secured and have the safety cap. Multiple cylinders may be secured together (gang-chained), only if they are capped (not in use). Only capped cylinders can be secured with a single restraining device (gang chained) as shown in Figure 5.3. Cylinders that are in use, meaning is a regulator attached, must be individually secured by a chain or strap as shown in Figure 5.4. Cylinder valves and regulators should be protected from impact or damage. Figure 5.3 – Not In-Use Cylinders Figure 5.4 – In-Use Cylinders Reactive Materials Storage Reactive materials include explosives, pyrophorics, self-heating and self-reacting compounds, and Many reactive materials are also toxic and are dissolved or immersed in a flammable solvent (e.g., lithium alkyl compounds dissolved in diethyl ether, sodium metal immersed in mineral oil). Other common hazards often associated with reactive chemicals include corrosivity, teratogenicity, or organic peroxide formation. The following guidelines for storing reactive materials must be followed in all laboratories: The amount of reactive materials stored in the lab must be kept to a minimum. Any expired or unnecessary reactive materials must be properly disposed of as hazardous waste. All reactive materials must be clearly labeled with the original manufacturer’s label, which should have the chemical name, hazard labels, and pictograms. The label should not be defaced in any way. All reactive materials should be placed into secondary containment as a best management practice. Suitable storage locations for reactive materials include inert gas-filled desiccators or glove boxes, flammable storage cabinets that do not contain aqueous or other
Use of compressed gases should be conducted in a properly functioning chemical fume hood whenever possible. The chemical fume hood must be approved and certified by REM and have a face velocity between 85 – 125 feet per minute. Contact REM for information regarding specific handling requirements when work with toxic, highly toxic, corrosive, and reactive gases. Generally, these of gases need to be stored and used with local exhaust ventilation (e.g., fume hood or gas cylinder cabinet). Section 7 – Aid Procedures If inhaled: Move into the fresh air immediately. Consult a physician. If not breathing give artificial respiration and seek immediate medical attention. In case of skin contact: Immediately flush skin with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and shoes. Wash any contaminated clothing before reuse. Thoroughly clean shoes before reuse. Consult a physician. In case of eye contact: Check for and remove any contact lenses. Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician. Seek immediate medical attention. If swallowed: Do NOT induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Seek immediate medical attention. Section 8 – Special Handling and Storage Requirements Compressed gas cylinders should be stored in a secure, well ventilated location, and in an upright position at all times. All compressed gas cylinders should be handled as if full and should never be completely emptied. Cylinders that are not in use (meaning that the regulator is not attached) must be secured and the safety cap must be on the cylinder and are permitted to be chained together as shown below in Figure 1. Cylinders that are in use, meaning there is a regulator attached, must be individually secured by a chain or strap as shown below in Figure 2. Cylinder valves and regulators must be protected from impact or damage. A designated storage area must be established for compressed Toxic, highly toxic, corrosive, and reactive gases should be stored in a gas cylinder cabinet as shown in Figure 3. Do not over purchase; only purchase what can be safely stored in the laboratory. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and inhalation.