Guidance on Storing Cylinders
Storage locations
Small quantities of cylinders may be stored in a variety of locations, provided that the principles given in the following paragraphs are followed. Larger quantities of cylinders should be kept in a purpose-designed store or storage area, following the same principles.
Ideal storage: in the open, with some protection from the weather
Full or empty compressed gas cylinders should be stored in a well-ventilated area - preferably in the open, but with some weather protection. Cylinders should be stored securely on a well-drained surface to prevent corrosion. Store cylinders in a location free from fire risk and away from sources of heat and ignition.
Store cylinders upright and secure them
It is best to store all cylinders upright, taking steps to see that they are secured to prevent them falling. Free standing cylinders are a hazard to users and passers-by. Acetylene and propane must never be stacked horizontally in storage or in use. Vertical cylinders should always be secured or under your direct control: never turn your back on a free standing cylinder. When standing or churning cylinders be aware of the hazards of uneven, sloping, slippery and vibrating surfaces as well as loose debris. Whenever possible use a cylinder trolley for transporting large cylinders.
Plan for emergencies
All persons with a responsibility for storing or using gas cylinders should be familiar with the procedures to be followed in case of an emergency, click on Fire and Gas Leaks. Stores layouts and emergency procedures should be planned accordingly, recognising the possibility of an emergency arising.
Do not use compressed gas stores for other products
You must not store other products in a cylinder store, particularly oil, paint or corrosive liquids.
Rotate your stock
Your storage arrangement should ensure adequate turnaround of stock. Do not store empty cylinders longer than necessary: return them to BOC Gases as soon as possible. This applies particularly to cylinders which normally contain flammable or toxic gases.
Wear the correct protective clothing
All persons handling gas cylinders should wear protective footwear and industrial gloves and avoid loose clothing, particularly sleeves which may catch on cylinder valves. There are some operations with cylinders where it is essential to wear eye and ear protection: these instances are explained in the relevant sections of this booklet.
Do not use compressed gas stores for other products
Segregation of cylinders
Full cylinders should be stored separately from the empties, and cylinders of different gases whether full or empty should be segregated from each other. Allow sufficient space between groups of cylinders to enable access to them.
Storage of fuel gases
LPG includes propane, butane and propylene. LPG cylinders must not be stored within 3m of any compressed gas cylinders (including acetylene). The use of a fire wall can help to provide the required separation. The separation requirements can be relaxed when the total quantity of LPG stored is less than 50kg. For details refer to LP Gas Association Code of Practice 7.
Storage of toxic and corrosive gases
Toxic and corrosive gases should be stored separated from all other gases by at least 1 metre (3 metres from LPG) and the detailed instructions on the individual BOC Gases material safety data sheets should be followed.
It is essential that when handling or storing cylinders containing toxic or corrosive gases that the plug or cap nut is always replaced in the valve outlet when the cylinder is not in use or connected to an operational system.
In the event of any emergency arising that involves a toxic gas or other BOC Special Gases product contact BOC Special Gases on 0800 02 0800.
Phil Thompson MIFireE CFPA E-Dip
Fire Safety Manager