General

Use on Campus

Compressed gas cylinders are used regularly in science and engineering buildings, machine shops, and retail and campus dining. Researchers, staff, and outside contractors store and use various types of compressed gases for different reasons. Researchers should contact their Department Managers when initially thinking of using compressed gas cylinders.  

Compressed Gas Hazard Classes

Inert  
Flammable  
Pyrophoric  
Oxidizing  
Toxic  
Corrosive  

Storage

  • Store cylinders secured to a stationary object or wall.  No more than two cylinders may be fastened by one strap. 
  • Store cylinders with safety caps in place.  Never insert foreign objects into the safety cap holes when trying to remove or close the cap. 
  • The various hazard classes must be segregated and stored in quantities dictated by International Fire Code New Jersey Edition 2006.  Contact EHS for assistance with compliance.  

Use

  • Use appropriate regulator, compatible manifold materials, and pressure rated tubing and piping for all applications. 
  • Consider margins of error for all temperature and pressure ratings on engineering.  
  • Wear safety glasses, faceshield, and appropriate gloves when manipulating pressurized systems.  
  • Never empty a cylinder to less than 25psi.  
  • Ensure that the valve is always accessible.  

Handling

  • Use a cylinder cart for transportation.  
  • Move cylinders with safety cap in place.

Staff

Stanley Howell
Sr. Program Manager
Chemical Safety
609-258-2711

Steve Elwood
Associate Director for Laboratory Safety
609-258-6271