High pressure, high stakes — store them right and handle them carefully
Compressed gas cylinders hold gas under high pressure, and the hazards depend on the gas: fire and explosion from flammables like LPG and acetylene, accelerated fire from oxidisers like oxygen, asphyxiation from inert gases that displace oxygen, plus toxic gases — and the physical danger of a damaged cylinder becoming a missile. Store cylinders upright and secured, keep ignition sources and incompatibles away, use flashback arrestors on oxy-fuel sets, and follow the Hazardous Substances Regulations.
The hazard of a cylinder depends on what is in it, and many workplaces have several types side by side.
| Type | The danger |
|---|---|
| Flammable | LPG, acetylene — fire or explosion near ignition. LPG is heavier than air and pools in low spots like drains and pits. |
| Oxidising | Oxygen, nitrous oxide — accelerate fire; oxygen reacts violently with grease and oil. |
| Asphyxiant | Nitrogen, argon, carbon dioxide — displace oxygen and can suffocate, especially in confined spaces. |
| Toxic / corrosive | Ammonia, chlorine — harmful if inhaled or in contact. |
On top of the gas itself, the cylinder is a pressure vessel: a damaged valve can release gas rapidly, and heat or impact can cause a catastrophic rupture that throws the cylinder and shrapnel.
In New Zealand, the use and storage of gases and LPG in workplaces is governed by the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations, which set controls for hazardous areas, separation, ventilation, quantities and emergency management. WorkSafe is the workplace regulator. LPG cylinders have specific filling rules — generally only an approved filler may fill them, with limited exceptions. See hazardous substances.
Store cylinders upright and secured against falling, in a well-ventilated area, protected from the weather and heat, and away from ignition sources — no smoking nearby. Keep incompatible gases apart, especially oxidisers from flammables, and secure cylinders from unauthorised access. Have the right fire-fighting equipment to hand.
When handling: never drop, drag or roll cylinders; keep valves closed and caps on when not in use or when moving them; open valves slowly and never force a stuck valve; check fittings for leaks with soapy water, not a flame. On oxy-fuel sets, fit flashback arrestors, and never use grease or oil on oxygen equipment. Train workers and have emergency procedures ready — gas work near a flame is also hot work.
Manage your gas inventory, storage controls and training in one place. Book a demo and we'll show you how it works — free 30-day trial included.
It depends on the gas: fire and explosion from flammables like LPG and acetylene, accelerated fire from oxidisers like oxygen, asphyxiation from inert gases that displace oxygen, and toxic effects from gases like ammonia or chlorine, plus the physical danger of a pressurised cylinder rupturing.
Upright and secured against falling, in a well-ventilated area, protected from weather and heat, away from ignition sources, with incompatible gases kept apart and access restricted.
The Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations set the controls for storing and using gases and LPG, including hazardous areas, separation, ventilation and quantities. WorkSafe is the workplace regulator.
It is a safety device fitted to oxy-fuel welding and cutting sets that stops a flame travelling back into the hoses or cylinder. Fitting them, and never using grease or oil on oxygen equipment, helps prevent fires and explosions.
Generally no. LPG cylinders must be filled by an approved filler, with limited exceptions, and people handling exchange cylinders must be trained in their safe handling and storage.
