Compressed gases, hazards from

Compressed gases, therefore, present a unique hazard from their potential physical and chemical dangers. Unless cylinders are secured they may topple over, cause injury to operators, become damaged themselves and cause contents to leak. If the regulator shears off, the cylinder may rocket like a projectile or torpedo dangerously around the workplace. Other physical hazards stem from the high pressure of a cylinder s contents, e.g. accidental application of a compressed gas/air hose or jet onto an open cut or wound, whereby the gas can enter the tissue or bloodstream, is particularly dangerous. 

Some bromine compounds are covered specifically under Hazardous Materials Regulations. Other compounds may usually be shipped under the classification of chemicals, not otherwise indexed by name, without special requirements unless from their nature they would fall under a category such as combustible liquid, compressed gas, corrosive liquid (or solid), disinfectant liquid (or solid), dmg, dye intermediate (liquid), fire extinguisher, flammable gas (liquid or solid), insecticide, medicine, oxidizer or oxidizing material, poisonous liquid (gas or solid), solvent, or tear gas. Specific provisions apply to each of these categories and appropriate packaging and labeling are required. 

Compressed gases can expose the worker to both mechanical and chemical hazards, depending on the gas. Hazards can result from the flammability, reactivity, or toxicity of the gas, fi-om the possibility of asphyxiation, and from the gas compression itself, which could lead to a rupture of the tank or valve. 

Do not use compressed gas to dust oH clofiring. This may seriously injure the body or eyes or cause a fire hazard. Above all, do not use oxygen. Clothing saturated with oxygen can ignite from a spark and bum with great intensity. 

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