Lab Safety: What's Wrong in this Picture?
The following scene was noted in a campus building. Can you find the unsafe condition(s)?
Answer: The right cylinder is not secured, and the left cylinder is not properly secured. Both could easily fall.
- Compressed gas cylinders are heavy and awkward to handle and a falling cylinder can cause serious injury. When cylinders are mishandled or improperly stored they may explode, release their hazardous contents or become dangerous projectiles.
- Empty cylinders should be clearly marked and stored as carefully as those that are full because residual gas may be present.
- Compressed gas cylinders should be secured firmly at all times. A clamp and belt or chain, securing the cylinder between "waist" and "shoulder" to a wall, are generally suitable for this purpose.
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Updated May 6, 2008 by SAK
