SAFETY RULES FOR WORKING WITH INDUSTRIAL GASES
Working with industrial gases is extremely dangerous. Improper handling of these substances can have serious consequences, endangering health and life. Depending on the type of gas used, there are the following hazard categories:
- Toxic hazards,
- fire hazards,
- explosion hazard.
Working safely with gases should always start with the creation of a suitable infrastructure, such as internal and external gas installations, single – and double-sided and automatic gas expansion stations, high tightness installations made of copper or steel pipes, as well as additional equipment (pressure reducing valves, shut-off valves). Rooms in which an explosive atmosphere may be generated must first be equipped with active safety and ventilation systems. Laboratories or production halls should be equipped with detection systems suitable for the type of gas and effective exhaust systems for reaction gases. In addition, effective ventilation of rooms, gas cabinets and storage areas should be provided. Cylinders of compressed gases should be protected by against tipping, overheating and damage. When the work is completed, gas cylinders should be removed and moved to a location where they do not pose a hazard. Remember that there is a high risk of explosion in case of fire or improper transportation (special carts should be used for transportation). Furthermore, do not clean the cylinders by yourself. It is also forbidden to store flammable gases with incompatible substances, e.g. oxidizing gases with flammable or aggressive gases. Knowing the basic rules and regulations is the key to working safely with gases. It pays to know the rules and regulations and to educate each other about safety.