Week 33: Compressed Gas Safety Valves

Valve Safety

Objective: To raise awareness of common hazards associated with compressed gas cylinders

The valve is the most important component of a compressed gas cylinder, as well as the most fragile. When working with cylinders, follow best practices for cylinder valve use and care.  

Valve Types

Before use, assure that cylinders are fitted with the correct type of valve for the cylinder’s contents and planned work.

  • Pressure seal valves are used for oxygen, hydrogen, and inert gases.
  • Packed valves are used for corrosive and reactive gases.
  • Diaphragm valves can be used for most hazardous materials other than fluorine.

Safe Practices

  • Close valves, bleed the lines, remove regulators, and replace safety valve caps:
  1. When storing cylinders.
  2. Before moving cylinders.
  3. When a cylinder is empty.
  4. When leaving cylinders unattended.
  • Do not tamper with or modify valves or safety caps.
  • Assure that all cylinders are equipped with a handle or wrench, so that they can be turned off immediately when necessary.