Frequently Asked Questions
They should be stored where they are not exposed to physical damage, tampering or where temperatures will not exceed 52 degrees C. Ideally, a lockable store, constructed of non-combustible material such as brick and wire mesh should be provided. Labels should be displayed, indicating the contents of the store (compressed gases, LPG, etc) and prohibiting smoking in the area.
Keep cylinders away from stairs and walkways, and ensure that they cannot be knocked over by keeping them secured to a stand or wall by a chain or sturdy strap.
Cylinders should be stored upright, especially those containing acetylene or liquefied petroleum gases (LPG). Cylinders should be segregated according to type, to ensure that fuel gases are not stored together with oxygen. Separation shall be by distance - at least 20 feet (USA recommendations) or 3 m (UK recommendations), or by a wall having at least half an hour fire resistance. Similarly LPG cylinders must be stored separately from other fuel gases.
References:
USA:
Safety in Welding, Cutting and Allied Processes. ANSI Z49.1:2005
Compressed Gas Association P-1, Safe handling of compressed gases in containers.
UK:
HSE information sheet: CHIS5 - Small scale use of LPG in cylinders.
HSE information sheet: CHIS4 - Use of LPG in small bulk tanks.
British Compressed Gas Association: Guidance for the storage of Transportable Gas Cylinders in the Workplace GN2 Rev 3 2005.
HSE Guidance 'Safe use of gas cylinders', Issue 1, June 2004.