It is important to stay safe at all times when handling gas canisters. After all, compressed gas can present risks to your health, as well as others’, if the appropriate safety measures are not taken into consideration. Knowing how to handle heavy bottles or canisters filled with gas under pressure requires that users follow safety recommendations that include:
Know the Gas
First of all, it is crucial that you know the properties of the gas you’re using, be it helium, propane or butane. It is equally important that you learn of any potential hazards the gas can cause so that you know how to avoid them or react to them accordingly (should anything happen). You also want to know the correct way to manually handle the canister itself to prevent emergency situations from occurring.
Out with the Old
Make sure that you arrange and store your gas canisters in a way that allows you to easily use the old ones first. When storing the bottles, separate the empty from the full as well, and avoid using up all of the pressure inside the cylinder, as that can cause air suck-back, a phenomenon that allows moisture and contaminants to enter the canister – this can lead to a potential explosive mixture, so this precaution needs to be a rule every time you’re about to empty a bottle!
Use Safety Equipment
When handling gas bottles, you want to make sure you are completely protected against any potential dangers. For instance, wear safety glasses, gloves and shoes to prevent being harmed with the gas when using it, and secure the bottles and canisters properly when transporting them – use a manual truck or specific cart for this or, if transporting them in a vehicle, make sure they are safely secured and their valve protection cap is not loose.
In addition, never drag the canisters or let them roll around, as they should be secured firmly in place when being transported to a different location.
Considerations Before Opening the Canisters
When you need to open a gas bottle, make sure to follow the necessary safety guidelines. For example, always keep the valve away from you, other people and other bottles, and turn off all valves when not using the gas. Check the bottle for any damages and don’t use the gas if you found any marks, leaks or stains marring the metal. Never remove any identifying labels either, as you need to know exactly what you are using at all times – all bottles need to be easily recognisable, then.
Another thing to consider is that you can’t refill empty canisters, as only qualified professionals should handle this task.
Pick Bottles Up Carefully
Gas canisters and bottles might be heavy, so it’s important that you have a firm grip when you’re carrying them. A good lifting technique is useful here! Avoid picking up bottles if they are wet or slippery, as they can easily fall from your grasp – if you must, wear gloves to help you attain a firm grip on them. When transporting them by hand, don’t roll the bottles on their side, but always pick them up instead.
Storing your gas bottles safely is important, but so is handling them appropriately in order to prevent accidents and injuries. Get in touch with us here at Adams Gas, and we’ll answer any questions you may have about our products or about how to handle them correctly at all times.
