Gas Cylinders: Important Considerations for Proper Handling and Storage

Pressurised gasses are indispensable and as such have found their way in many areas of our lives. They’re useful in various industries, ranging from manufacturing, packaging and construction, including metal work like welding, to proving to be essential in medical research, food and beverage preservation. 

Whether it’s compressed oxygen, nitrogen, or carbon dioxide, one thing is certain – the gas cylinder it’s stored in plays a crucial role in proper handling and safety. Although at first glance they may not seem all too important, they are as they’re vessels that store immense energy; as such, they must be sturdy, made from durable materials like steel or aluminium chosen for the ability to withstand high pressures.

Why Do Compressed Gas Cylinders Need to Be Secured?

Investing in accessories like reliable gas bottle holder chosen specifically for the type of cylinder you have to ensure the right fit is mandatory no matter the setting you use these cylinders in. Industrial, commercial, or residential – you simply need this kind of accessory. It’s true, this pressurised gas in the cylinders provides us with so much convenience as mentioned with the uses across industries.

But, it’s also the very aspect that demands caution with the storage and handling. The pressure the cylinders contain makes them susceptible to leakage, fire and explosion, putting people’s lives and properties in danger. Restraining with the right holder is imperative even if you just have the cylinders stored and not moved or transported. This way you also comply with the safety standards, like AS4332-2004, and avoid legal penalties and fines as well. 

Ways to Secure Compressed Gas Cylinders

There are different methods you can try out to ensure the safety of everyone, and comply with the regulations, some of which are: 

Wall-Mounted Brackets

Also known as gas bottle holder, this type of bracket is usually made from metal and is designed to be attached to the wall for secure storage. It conveniently wraps around a bottle, keeping it upright and stable. This solution is great for fixed storage in workshops, garages, warehouses, medical facilities. 

As there are different types of bottles, there are different brackets suitable for them, so when shopping it’s important to consider the type of bottle you need them for. If buying online, it’s best to measure up the bottle’s diameter, then consult the bottle table or listings provided by the retailer to get the perfect fit. This is especially crucial if you consider there are gas bottle bracket market variations in standard sizes. 

Cylinder Racks

Also known as stands, they come with sturdy chains and are great for securing more gas bottles, making them perfect for industrial and commercial settings where there are multiple of these bottles. You can choose from two types: the secure, and the mobile. The choice comes down to whether you’d move them or have them in place. What you can be sure of is easy access to them, and organisation.

Cylinder Straps and Belts

If you’re looking for something that’s versatile, provides lightweight and adjustable temporary storage, the straps or belts are ideal. Made from materials like nylon and polyester, they give you the flexibility to secure different gas bottles to walls and racks as much as vehicles. Some of them come in a design in a combination with brackets made from durable polypropylene, suitable for securing more than one bottle without the chance for them to strike each other. 

Cylinder Cages

For proper restraining of the bottles, especially in public settings, you could rely on the cylinder cages that are lockable. In addition to keeping them secure and safe from tampering, they’re great for offering weather protection too as they’re made from sturdy materials like heavy-duty steel. Depending on the type of bottles and amount you need secured, you could also look for cabinets.

Cylinder Cradles

To have peace of mind when transporting gas bottles, it’s best to consider storing them in specialised transporting cradles. Fit for use with forklifts and vehicles, these can be made from metal or plastic and can safely secure the bottles, keeping them in place throughout the moving. 

Things to Remember for Proper Gas Cylinder Restraint

To make sure you handle this kind of bottle properly, it’s important to: 

Find the Right Securing Equipment

The market can provide you with a range of options when it comes to gas bottle holders, racks, straps, cages and cradles, so to be on the safe side always look for something that’s Australian made and complies with the safety standards. This way, you know you’re buying something of quality that can withstand regular use without putting lives or properties in danger.

Store Upright and Properly

To prevent leaks, it’s crucial to always store the bottles upright. When I say properly, I mean keeping them in well-ventilated areas that are also away from direct sunlight and flame or heat sources. Also, check the manufacturer’s guidelines on storage and handling for that extra step of precaution.

Do Regular Inspection

Sometimes, you may not be aware of a potential threat until you do an inspection. There could be signs of wear, tear, damage, rust, or even looseness so it’s always good to be on the lookout to give you the chance to act accordingly, and do proper maintenance replacing components in a timely manner if necessary. This is also helpful with ensuring the bottles aren’t outdated, keeping a close eye on expiration dates.

Separate Empty from Full Gas Bottles

Just because cylinders are empty doesn’t mean they pose any less risk than full ones. Act accordingly by treating them with caution same as the full ones. Also, be sure to label empty ones, and store them separated from the full ones. 

Do Personnel Training

People handling the gas bottles need to have the proper training to know how to do the storage with the suitable brackets, cages, or cradles, as well as how to act in case of incidents like leaks or explosions. From the adequate equipment (e.g. first aid kits, safety showers) to the evacuation procedures, they should know the drill.