Compressed gases are utilized across many industries. These gases can come in all types, and can be held in containers of all sizes. For this reason, it can be difficult for a company to properly develop a safety plan pertaining to compressed gases and their storage.

Because of this inherent difficulty, OSHA created Standard 1910.101, which sets minimum requirements for the use, transportation, and storage of compressed gases. In addition, this standard sets guidelines for safety relief devices which must be included on the compressed gas containers.

Unfortunately, OSHA largely hands the issue off to the Department of Transportation and the Compressed Gas Association. For issues pertaining to the storage, transportation, and use of compressed gases, business owners are sent to the Department of Transportation’s Hazardous Materials Regulation (49 CFR parts 171-179 and 14 CFR part 103). This regulation, in turn, covers all hazardous materials, and requires cross-referencing for different compressed gases and different containers.

OSHA then directs readers to the Compressed Gas Association Pamphlets S-1.1-1963 and 1965 addenda and S-1.2-1963 for any questions pertaining to the required safety relief devices for compressed gas containers.

So to initially establish a compressed gases safety program, you must review multiple sources. Then, to ensure continued compliance, you must continually review these multiple sources.

To streamline that process, it is often easier to simply work with a third party occupational safety and health auditing firm which can keep you abreast of regulatory changes while helping to ensure your safety plan is compliant.

For more information on compressed gas storage, use, or transit, please contact us. If you have anything else to add about compressed gases or their related regulations, please leave a comment.