Can I store my oxygen and acetylene cylinders together?
The British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA) used to issue recommended separation distances between different types of gases.
This is now no longer the case.
A risk assessment must be undertaken for each gas storage area, and appropriate control measures should be in place to reduce the level of risk.
One of these control measures may be the practice of nominally segregating gas cylinders by gas type, i.e. oxidants, fuel gases and inert gases.
BCGA CP44 states:
‘Cylinders containing gases with the same hazard category shall (must) be grouped together. The location of each hazard category group shall (must) be identified with suitable signage.’
Can I store my full cylinders with my empty cylinders?
It is best practice not to store full cylinders with empty cylinders.
If a fire occurs near to the cylinder store, the Fire and Rescue Service will need to determine which cylinders are full and which are empty. This will allow them to undertake a dynamic risk assessment and decide how best to tackle the fire.
Remember, you have a duty of care to protect the Fire and Rescue Service whilst they are on your premises.
Whether a cylinder is full (including part-used) or empty of a gas shall (must) be identified with suitable signage.
Do my cylinders need to be secured?
Yes.
BCGA CP44 states that all cylinders require appropriate safety devices to hold them in a secure position (to minimise movement and to prevent them from falling over).
Can I store my gas cylinders inside my premises?
It is advisable to store your gas cylinders outside in a well-ventilated, purpose-built storage area with a smooth concrete floor and easy access for cylinder movements, deliveries and the emergency services.
If cylinders are stored inside, then you need to undertake a specific risk assessment for this activity and ensure that the minimum quantities of gas are stored.
Do I need safety signs around my gas storage area?
Yes. Each individual gas cylinder stores shall (must) have adequate signage to provide safety information and warnings on the hazardous products being stored.
Do I need fire extinguishers near my gas storage area?
Your site fire safety risk assessment shall (must) include each individual gas cylinder storage area.
It will identify the emergency actions to be undertaken in the event of a fire near to the gas cylinder storage area and whether fire extinguishers are required.
Obviously, each gas cylinder store area shall (must) be designated a ‘NO SMOKING AREA’.
