Safe Storage and Handling of Medical Gases

Appropriate Storage

Key Considerations:

• Medical gases are classified as drugs and require proper storage.
• Store in a lockable, well-ventilated area of sufficient size.
• Implement a system for regularly changing date stamps on gas cylinders.
• Keep a log of all medical gas transactions to monitor cylinder usage.

Flammability and Safety

Handling Precautions:

• Oxygen and medical gases are highly flammable; they ignite at high temperatures.
• Prevent contact with greases and oils to avoid combustion.
• Store at normal room temperature in a locked area, preferably outdoors.

Safe Cylinder Handling

Protective Measures:

• Exercise caution when exchanging cylinders to avoid damage.
• Cylinders are made of materials like aluminium, carbon fibre, or steel.
• The regulator, headsets, and gauges are plastic and vulnerable to impact.
• Securely fasten cylinders to prevent them from becoming projectiles in case of accidents.

Organizational Policies

Compliance and Guidelines:

• Adhere to your organization's policies and procedures for oxygen cylinder storage and exchange.

Secure Storage in Vehicles

Vehicle Safety:

• Fix cylinders in place inside the vehicle to prevent them from rolling during travel.
• Never allow cylinders to roam freely inside the vehicle, especially in the event of a collision.
• Keep cylinders in a kit bag or storage container in the car's boot (trunk).

Separate Empty and Full Cylinders

Proper Organization:

• Empty and full cylinders should always be stored separately.
• Change the regulator gauge when cylinders are around a quarter full to maintain pressure and sterility.
• Regularly check cylinder contents to ensure they are full before use.