Transporting Portable Compressed Gas Containers Safely
A worker was killed when an acetylene tank in the back of the service truck he was driving exploded. Other fuel (diesel
and gasoline) then ignited, completely engulfing the truck in flames.
Recommended Preventive Action
- Ensure employees are trained to mitigate the hazards
associated with transporting portable compressed
containers.
- Ensure employees understand the requirements in
the regulations and the standards associated with
compressed gases.
- Close the container valve before shutting off the
regulator, so the gas can bleed from the regulator.
- Ensure containers are fixed and secure before transport.
- Provide proper ventilation.
- Do not store acetylene near other fuel, gas or near open
flames or electrical equipment.
- Acetylene containers must be transported and stored vertically; if stored
horizontally, allow them to stand vertically for at least 30 minutes before use.
- Close container valve, remove regulators and install cap on containers before
transport.
- Follow all the supplier’s specifications, including the safety data sheet.
- Follow all regulations and standards.
- Transport of compressed gas containers may be subject to the Transportation of
Dangerous Goods requirements; contact your local agency to verify.
