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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.