Gas cylinders require special storage and handling precautions. The hazards associated with compressed gases include oxygen displacement, explosion hazards, toxic effects of some gases, as well as the physical hazards (kinetic energy dissipation) of a ruptured cylinder [local].
About 200 different types of materials are available in gas cylinders including atmospheric gases, fuel gases, refrigerant gases, poison gases and miscellaneous gases. OSHA has regulations governing the use of compressed gases.
