Unserviceable Cylinders with Known Contents

DISPOSITION OF UNSERVICEABLE CYLINDERS WITH KNOWN CONTENTS 

This section discusses the recommendations for disposal of compressed gas cylinders which are no longer considered to be 

Information on how to handle these types of cylinders can be found in CGA C-2, Recommendations for the Disposition of Unserviceable Compressed Gas Cylinders with Known Contents. [25] Readers who may encounter unserviceable cylinders are encouraged to study and understand the complete text of CGA C-2. Users who have unserviceable cylinders are cautioned against disposing of cylinders that either are empty or contain product. All possible means should be taken to determine the supplier of the cylinder and return the cylinder to the supplier. 

Nonreusable (nonrefillable) containers such as those made to DOT or TC Specifications 39, 40, and 41 are considered by DOT and TC regulations to be unserviceable after one use and therefore must not be refilled or reused for any purpose. Disposal of such cylinders should be in accordance with recommendations obtained from the suppliers who initially filled the cylinders. Such recommendations may sometimes be included in the labeling of the cylinders. 

The proper and safe disposition of unserviceable compressed gas cylinders is important as very substantial potential hazards may exist that must be recognized and evaluated by those who attempt to dispose of them. Where the contents of the cylinder are unknown and there is no ready means for identifying its properties, the hazard is especially great. The disposal of cylinders with unknown contents is a very complex subject and should only be attempted by specially trained experts. For cylinders in this cate- 

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Any individuals or organizations such as scrap dealers, fire services, or military organizations who may have reason to dispose of an unserviceable compressed gas cylinder should first attempt to locate the supplier of the cylinder and have the supplier assume responsibility for disposal. If the supplier cannot be determined or located, contact the nearest manufacturer or distributor of the type of compressed gas in question. That manufacturer or distributor should be requested to provide instructions and supervision for the safe disposition of unserviceable cylinders with known contents. 

The contents of unserviceable cylinders with known contents should be removed by the methods appropriate for the contents, and these must also comply with applicable regulatory requirements. These methods should not be attempted unless someone experienced in a proper method of removal is personally directing the procedure. If this... 

Disposal of any unused cylinder should be handled by the supplier. CGA C-2, Recommendations for the Disposition of Unserviceable Compressed Gas Cylinders with Known Contents provides further information on the proper means to dispose of unserviceable acetylene cylinders. [7]... 

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