Compressed gas cylinders are a convenient way to transport and store gases under pressure. A number of different gases are used in laboratories across the University for a variety of scientific purposes. However, hazards are not just from the gas itself but also because of how the gas is stored - under pressure. Compressed gas cylinders may pose a particular hazard during a fire, and the Emergency Services often require information as to the location of gas cylinders within a building in order to protect themselves and others.
The H&S Lead/ Advisor in your College/ PSU will provide advice and guidance on compressed gas systems, and will be your primary contact. However, day to day management of compressed gases may be passed to a competent member of the team.
No work is to be undertaken with compressed gas which may expose employees, students or visitors to risks from the use, handling and storage of compressed gases, unless the risks have been managed via a risk assessment process. Only persons that have completed the online gas safety training are authorised to use, change or move a compressed gas cylinder. Practical training in handling cylinders is provided within your College/ PSU. For more information contact your H&S Lead/ Advisor.
All users are to follow the Standard Operating Procedures for the changing of gas cylinders outlined in the policy arrangements. It also includes detail on selecting a regulator and the replacement programme (every 5 years). All gases procured and kept on campus must be entered into the Quartzy database. Input information under a relevant database category e.g. Bay Campus gases or Singleton Campus gases.
To find out if your inert gas supply has the potential to deplete the oxygen in the room to less than 19.5% (which will then require an oxygen monitor) please use the Oxygen Depletion Calculator.
All new installations must be in accordance with the policy arrangements. For any supply greater than 0.5 Bar PSU, the supplier/installer must provide a written scheme of examination as part of the project handover operation and maintenance (O&M) information manual.
For new projects and installations the project co-ordinator will be responsible for ensuring a written scheme is in place (where applicable) and notifying E&FM of any compressed gas installations that will require future testing under the PSSR 2000.
For existing installations the Head of College is to carry out a review of the compressed gas installations to determine if a written scheme is required and if an inspection/ testing is required.
All toxic and flammable gases shall be point of use from within a 30 minute rated fire cabinet. Inert gases and oxygen are not required to be stored in cabinets.
If you require further clarification contact Estates & Facilities Management on: 5240
Oxygen Depletion Calculator