Oxygen Cylinder Safety
2023-08-25 15:22DO LEARN PROPER MEDICAL CYLINDER SAFETY HANDLING
l Read and follow the cylinder label instructions.
DO TRANSPORT CYLINDERS CORRECTLY
l Use personal protective equipment and mechanical assistance when handling cylinders (e.g. trolleys).
l Ensure cylinder (regardless of size) is firmly secured by a strong chain or strap, capable of preventing the cylinder from falling or being knocked over.
l Ensure valve guards or caps are fitted when cylinders are not in use or when being transported for delivery.
DO SET UP CYLINDERS FOR CLINICAL USE AT A SAFE DISTANCEFROM THE PATIENT
l Ensure that the gas is only turned on when it is required. Adequate valves, pressure regulators and flowmeters should be placed to control the desired rates.
l Oxygen cylinder valves should be opened smoothly to avoid (adiabatic) compression and heat generation and associated fire risks.
l Ensure adequate ventilation on the wards to reduce the risk of fire.
DO STORE CYLINDERS CORRECTLY
l Always physically separate full and empty medical cylinders.
l Store all oxygen cylinders in upright position and nesting, with three points of contact.
l Ensure that the storage room is well ventilated, clean and not exposed to extremes of temperature and humidity.
l Keep oxygen sources several metres from ignition sources (for example, acetylene used in maintenance).
l Ensure appropriate fire extinguishers are kept nearby and are regularly inspected.