Oxygen: cylinders leaking, hazards

The next element for fire is an oxidizer. The most common oxidizer is oxygen present in the air that helps in oxidizing the fuel. Sometimes a chemical can be self-ignited in the presence of an oxidizer. For example, white phosphorus catches fire as soon as it comes in contact with air. Pure oxygen is a strong oxidizer. A small leak in an oxygen cylinder may cause a fire hazard. 

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), stored as a liquid under pressure in cylinders, is widely used in homes as cooking gas. The main hazards associated with LPG are fire or explosion, in the case of even minor leakage. In the case of major leakage in confined spaces, asphyxiation due to deficiency of oxygen also may result. Because LPG is colorless and odorless, a distinctive foul odor is added to enable easy detection of a leak. As LPG vapor is heavier than air, these vapors accumulate at lower levels, and a fire or explosion may result. 

Flush contaminated clothing with water (fire hazard). Many substances which are non-combustible in air (e.g. trichloroethylene, steel) will bum in pure oxygen. Even a slight rise in atmospheric oxygen level increases the flammability of all substances considerably. Close valve vt en not in use check hoses emd lines regularly test for leaking connections with soap solution. Use cylinder with special fittings. 

Use methyl chloride in a well-ventilated area only, preferably a hood with forced ventilation. The cylinder should never be directly connected to a container of liquid, since reverse flow can occur, causing a reaction within the cylinder. To prevent reverse flow, a trap, check valve, or vacuum break should be inserted into the line. Cylinders of methyl chloride should be stored and used only in well-ventilated areas away from heat and all sources of ignition such as flames and sparks in order to avoid fire and explosion hazards. Flames should never be used to detect methyl chloride leaks use a soapy water solution. Do not use methyl chloride around sparking motors or other non-explosion-proof equipment. Reserve stocks of methyl chloride cylinders should not be stored with cylinders containing oxygen, chlorine, or other highly oxidizing or flammable materials. [4]... 

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