Compressed Gas Regulators

Introduction

The safety guidelines presented below deal with the use of compressed gas regulators and were developed by the Compressed Gas Association.

Scope and Application

These safety tips apply to anyone using compressed gas regulators at the College.

Guidelines

CGA's Safety Bulletin #E-19-2018:

USE OF REGULATOR PRESSURE GAUGES

General Precautions

Oxygen and hydrocarbons (oil and grease are common hydrocarbons) under certain conditions can react violently, resulting in explosions, fire, and damage or injury to personnel and property. Never allow oil or grease to come in contact with any external or internal part of the threaded fitting or internal portion of the pressure element assembly of oxygen gauges. Even a minute amount of hydrocarbon can be hazardous in the presence of oxygen.

Regulator gauges should be installed or replaced only by qualified personnel who have been properly instructed.

DO maintain the pressure element assembly and connection cleanliness level required for the intended application.
DO refer to the manufacturer's instruction manual for the correct pressure ranges to be used.
DO use the wrench flats provided on the gauge connection and the proper size wrench to secure the gauge to the regulator.
DO use only the thread sealant recommended by the regulator manufacturer for the specific application.
DO NOT install a low pressure gauge into the high pressure port on a regulator.
DO NOT use the gauge case for wrenching.
DO NOT interchange gauges from one gas application to another.
DO NOT exchange gauges from one regulator to another.
DO NOT conduct calibration verification using air from shop air lines, oil, or a contaminated pressure source.
DO NOT remove the restrictor installed in the gauge connection. The restrictor limits gas flow and aids in limiting temperature rise due to adiabatic compression.

Gauges can fail during operation and the energy contained in the compressed gases can produce violent effects should the pressure element assembly rupture.

DO always apply cylinder pressure slowly. Heat due to adiabatic compression can cause ignition.
DO use safety glasses or provide eye protection.
DO stand with the cylinder between yourself and the regulator (cylinder valve outlet facing away) when opening the cylinder valve.
DO read CGA Safety Bulletin E-19, Use of Oxy-Fuel Gas Welding and Cutting Apparatus. [See "Cutting and Welding" link below.]
DO NOT stand in front of or behind the pressure gauges when applying cylinder pressure to the regulator. This will reduce the possibility of injury from flying parts should the pressure element assembly rupture.
DO NOT operate regulators without eye protection.

Additional information about using compressed gases can be found under safety program topic "Cutting and Welding".