aerospace climate control electromechanical filtration fluid & gas handling hydraulics pneumatics process control sealing & shielding A Guide to Safe Handling of Compressed Gases in the Laboratory Balston ENGINEERING SUCCESS.

A Guide to Safe Handling of Compressed Gases in the Laboratory Kim Myers, Product Manager, Analytical Gas Systems Products, Parker Hannifin Using compressed gases in the laboratory can be a dangerous situation if they are handled improperly. Many gases can be explosive, flammable, corrosive, and toxic. Because the gases are under high pressure in tanks and cylinders, any release of gas can spread quickly and endanger lab personnel—including the possibility of injury from explosion or asphyxiation. Less harmful safety risks include physical injuries from mishandling tanks, especially to the hands,...

result in a dangerous condition, including the potential for an explosion or violent gas release. Arrange for the gas vendor to come immediately to pick up any defective cylinders. To prevent leaks, be sure main valves are closed when the cylinder is not in use, even if it is empty. Air that enters an empty cylinder can also bring in moisture and other contaminants that can lead to corrosion of the cylinder, or possibly even an explosive chemical reaction. Any pressure in the regulators should also be released when the cylinder is not in use. Every time a cylinder is brought into service, a leak...

Hopefully the comprehensive safety plan will prevent any serious accidents. However, in the event of an emergency, laboratory personnel must be able to react quickly (for example, know where to find emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers, eyewash, etc.). Enforce the safety plan at all times and practice it regularly to ensure the safest workspace possible (and quick and correct responses, should an emergency occur). Eliminate Cylinder Risks with In-House Gas Generation Although compressed gas tanks and cylinders are commonly used in workplace settings, they present several disadvantages:...