Gas Release

WITHOUT PUTTING YOURSELF AT RISK:

  • TURN OFF AT MAIN IF POSSIBLE
  • FROM A TELEPHONE WHERE GAS IS NOT A PROBLEM TELEPHONE 9-999
  • TELEPHONE SECURITY ON 888
  • TELEPHONE THE GAS EMERGENCY LINE 0800 111 999
  • DO NOT USE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

There are a number of gas related Regulations encompassing mains gas, gas installations, liquified petroleum gas and bottled gas etc. The Occupational Health and Safety Committee will progressively examine their impact and issue guidance and procedures in due course. In the meantime, queries should be directed to the Workplace Safety Adviser or to the Department of Occupational Health and Safety.

The Keele guidance entitled  'Guidance Notes on the Storage of Bottled Gas', issued in January 1994, is still valid.

Publications

The following documents are available as downloadable pdfs from the HSE website:-

Guidance Notes on the Storage of Bottled Gases

Small numbers of cylinders may be stored in a variety of locations, provided that the following principles are applied:

  • cylinders should be stored upright with a mechanical device to prevent them falling - preferably by attaching to a wall or fixed structure;

  • a cylinder trolley should always be used where practical to transport cylinders;

  • oxygen cylinders should be stored separately or at least 3 meters from fuel gas cylinders;

  • liquid propane gas cylinders in excess of 50 Kg capacity should be stored separately or should not be stored within 3 meters of any compressed gas cylinders (including acetylene);

  • toxic and/or corrosive gases should be stored separately from other gases;

  • the storage arrangement should ensure adequate turn round of stock;

  • the minimum size needed should always be ordered;

  • other products, particularly oil paint or corrosive liquids, should not be stored in the cylinder store;

  • all persons with responsibility for storing or using gas cylinders should be familiar with current good working practices e.g. BOC guidelines for the use of cylinders 'Safe Under Pressure';

  • users should prepare local additions to these notes and all staff should be properly informed and trained in the best working practices before using bottled gases.

The University Health and Safety Adviser should be contacted to arrange training if necessary.