Handling, Transport, and Valve Protection

Welcome back, let's Build Smart & Build Safe! We’ve covered securing and segregating cylinders. Today, we focus on the safe movement of cylinders and the single most critical step in preventing them from becoming a projectile: Valve Protection.

Most catastrophic cylinder failures occur during handling and transport when the valve stem is accidentally broken off.

1. Mandatory Valve Protection Cap

The valve protection cap is a heavy-duty, threaded steel hood that screws onto the neck of the cylinder.

• Purpose: It is designed to absorb impact and protect the vulnerable valve stem from being damaged if the cylinder is dropped, falls over, or strikes a solid object.

• The Rule: The cap must be screwed on tightly and remain in place whenever the cylinder is not in use (i.e., when the regulator is not attached) or is being moved, stored, or transported. Never move a cylinder without the cap in place.

• Using the Cap: Never lift the cylinder by the cap—it's only for protection, not handling.

2. Safe Handling and Transport

Cylinders are not designed to be dragged, rolled, or carried.

• Use the Cart: All transport must be done using a dedicated, purpose-built wheeled cylinder cart (hand truck) that securely holds the cylinder upright via chains or straps.

• Remove Regulator: Before moving any cylinder, the regulator and all hoses must be removed, and the valve protection cap must be secured.

• Do Not Roll/Drag: Never roll a cylinder horizontally across the ground or drag it by the cap or neck. This risks internal damage, exterior wear, and loss of control.

• Lifting: If lifting by crane or hoist is necessary, use a secure, manufactured cradle or platform—never use slings or electromagnets.

3. Securing When Finished

When the workday is over or the cylinder is empty, the main valve must be closed, the regulator relieved of pressure, and the valve protection cap must be reattached before the cylinder is returned to the secure, designated storage area.

Tomorrow, on Fall Protection Friday, we'll discuss cylinder management on elevated work platforms.

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-The Safety Man