Health & Safety Policy Arrangements. Compressed Gases. (HSA 22)

Transcription

1 Health & Safety Policy Arrangements Compressed Gases. (HSA 22)

2 Version Date Author Changes CB First SU Written Gas Policy Arrangements

3 1. Purpose It is the policy of Swansea University to take all reasonable steps to secure the health and safety of anyone who works with compressed gases. No work will be undertaken which is liable to expose any employees, students or visitors to risks from the use, handling and storage of compressed gases, unless a risk assessment has been carried out. These corporate arrangements set specific standards for the use and storage of compressed gases in order that the objectives of the corporate health and safety policy may be achieved. All colleges/professional services teams will be required to manage compressed gas use in accordance with these arrangements. 2. Legislation Requirements Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 Reg.3 Risk Assessment The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002; require employers to assess the risks from hazardous substances and take appropriate precautions. This would apply to toxic and corrosive gases. The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) 2002; require employers to carry out risk assessments of work activities involving dangerous substances, to provide technical and organisational measures to eliminate or reduce as far as is reasonably practicable the identified risks and, to provide equipment and procedures to deal with accident and emergencies; The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998; require the risks to people s health and safety, from equipment that they use at work, to be prevented or controlled. The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992; covers the moving of objects by hand or bodily force and requires manual handling tasks to be risk assessed and controlled. The Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations (the Carriage Regs) 2009; impose requirements and prohibitions in relation to the carriage of dangerous goods by road (and rail) and lay down standards of design, manufacture, testing and marking that manufacturers must comply with. Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 require an assessment to be made of the risks to workers from working in confined spaces The Pressure Equipment Regulations (PER) 1999; apply to the design and construction aspects of pressure equipment intended to contain a gas or liquid at 0.5 bar gauge or above. The main recognised body that issues national guidance and is referred to by the HSE, is the British Compressed Gas Association (BCGA). In particular, the following documents are useful reference and electronic and hard copies are available from the Safety Office: CP4 - Industrial gas cylinder manifolds and gas distribution pipe work: excluding acetylene. CP23 - Industrial & medical pressure systems installed at user premises. CP36 - Bulk cryogenic liquid storage. GN7 - The Safe Use of Oxy-Fuel Gas Equipment (Individual Portable or Mobile Cylinder Supply). GN2 - Guidance for the Storage of Gas Cylinders in the Workplace.

4 GN7 - The Safe Use of Oxy-Fuel Gas Equipment. 3. Roles & Responsibilities & Responsibilities In addition to the roles and responsibilities set out in the Health and Safety Policy, the following tasks will be required to manage compressed gases in accordance with these arrangements: Head of College/Department and Directors of PSU s Ensure that systems are in place to ensure that: all compressed gases are managed in accordance with these arrangements and resources are available for their implementation Users of compressed gas are aware of the requirements of this policy and are given adequate information, instruction and training to enable them to work safely with compressed gas; all compressed gas equipment is subject to an annual maintenance inspection and functional checks as specified in the schedule to this policy; Research Investigator/Academic Supervisor Carry out risk assessments where compressed gases are used. To include: - Confined space risk assessment (inert gases) - DSEAR risk assessment - COSHH assessment Ensure all persons receive appropriate training in accordance with these arrangements Laboratory Technicians input information in Quartzy under a relevant database category e.g. Bay Campus chemicals or Singleton Campus chemicals as set out in section 20 Health & Safety Co-ordinator The H&S co-ordinator will act as the Responsible Person for advice and guidance locally in accordance with these policy arrangements. These duties may be delegated to a competent nominated person within the college/psu for day to day management, however the responsibility to oversee this activity will remain with the H&S co-ordinator who will be the primary contact for their School/Department for University with regard to piped compressed gas systems attached to pressure cylinders. Health & Safety Team Monitor compliance with this policy arrangement, Reviewing and updating policy arrangement where necessary, Providing information and advice to Heads of College/Directors of PSU and delegated officers. Compressed Gas Users To operate piped compressed gas systems attached to pressure cylinders in accordance with these policy arrangements

5 4. Scope These arrangements are relevant to all piped compressed gas systems attached to pressure cylinders operated by, or within the University. 5. General principle of compressed gas cylinders indoors Due to the increased dangers associated with the use of standalone compressed gas cylinders located in buildings in the event of fire, the preferred method of providing compressed gasses within the University is via piped systems attached to gas cylinders securely housed outside the building. For new builds, in accordance with the HSE Principles of Prevention as cited in the CDM Regulations, all gases will be piped into buildings from external manifold rooms to reduce the risks associated with cylinders being used indoors. This principle applies to re-furbishment projects, where it is reasonable practicable to do so. Where this is not feasible, it is possible to use cylinders within buildings as long as the following is observed: The least hazardous gas available for the purpose is used. The minimum number and size possible is used. All cylinders are secured vertically to wall or cabinet bench mounted cylinders are not permissible (unless temporary compressed gas procedures are assessed and authorised) Cylinders must not be stored beside doors or escape routes. Cylinders are stored away from sources of heat or ignition. Cylinders are stored within view of operator. Cylinders are not placed where objects may strike or fall on them, possibly damaging the cylinders or their components. Every cylinder must have means of closing valve (i.e. hand-wheel or suitable spanner) Cylinders not in use are returned to the external store as soon as possible. Only cylinders connected to a supply shall be indoors. All spare gas cylinders shall be located in the outdoor gas cylinder store and only brought into the laboratory when a change of gas cylinder is required. 6. General Hazards of compressed gas cylinders The key hazard associated with compressed gas is the unintentional release of stored energy from failure of a component of the pressurised equipment and, depending on the contents, there may be toxic, corrosive or asphyxiation hazards. To minimise the risk, Colleges//PSU s need to have robust design, installation, and operation and maintenance standards in place. Explosion All compressed gas cylinders have the potential to explode when heated. When transporting cylinders always observe the following points: Use the correct cylinder trolley for long distance, with cylinders secured with a chain or strap.

6 Churning may be used for short distance on level floor (with suitable gloves, boots and training provided). Valve must be closed, and protective valve cover in place. Remove regulator and hoses before transport. Don't use the protective cylinder valve guard for moving or lifting cylinders. Don't drop a cylinder, or permit them to strike each other violently or be handled roughly. Do not drag, roll, or slide cylinders. Uncontrolled release of pressure Failure of the regulator can cause sudden release of gas with possible fatal consequences. Failures of regulators that have been purchased to the correct standard, and selected correctly for the service are rare. Opening the valve causes gas to be ejected at very high pressure, and a risk of injection of gas into the bloodstream if any part of the body is in the gas stream. Gas in the bloodstream can be fatal. The eyes are vulnerable to even a reflected gas jet. The release of gas under pressure can also create significant levels of noise sufficient to cause damage to hearing. Never deliberately vent Hydrogen. If hydrogen is accidentally released it can instantly ignite, due to the reverse Joules Thompson effect, and burns with an invisible flame. A relatively common accident is breaking off the regulator at the neck or breaking off the main valve at the neck. A typical oxygen cylinder is filled to a pressure of 230 bar, and weighs 60 kg or more. The regulator has a relatively narrow stem where it joins the cylinder. If a gas cylinder is knocked over, with the main valve open, there is a real risk of the regulator shearing off. Likewise, even a closed cylinder, if it is knocked over beside a wall or other obstruction the cylinder valve could be bent and must not be used. Remove to the store and label faulty, return to the gas supplier as soon as possible. If the cylinder is dropped from a height or the cylinder valve is deliberately hit, the cylinder valve could be sheared off. This will cause the cylinder to become rocket-propelled as the gas escapes (potentially 0 34 M.P.H. in a tenth of a second). There is potential for very serious, or fatal injury and damage to property. Manual Handling Only those who have received gas cylinder manual handling training are authorised to move gas cylinders. Training is provided within Colleges by competent persons A Manual Handling Risk Assessment must be undertaken for all gas moving and handling tasks and controls implemented. When handling cylinders the following PPE must be worn: For inert, oxygen and flammable gas cylinders: o steel toe-capped shoes or boots, o gloves o Eye protection as a minimum. Toxic gas will require specific PPE as indicated by the risk assessment in addition to that listed above. This may include: o chemical suit in accordance with EN943

7 o o face protection chemical resistant gloves Cryogenic gases will require additional PPE: o steel toe-capped boots to have a sewn in tongue o eye/face protection o Gloves in accordance to EN511. Suppliers materials safety data sheets will reference specific PPE for types of gases. 7. Gas Installations All gas installations shall be of a permanent fixed type of single cylinder or multiple cylinder primary gas manifolds must be installed in accordance with PSSR2000 by a competent person/installer and will be of suitable design and use materials of construction suitable for the intended gas. Any new requirements for Inert and Oxygen gas systems shall be taken off the existing fixed gas supply or if not already installed, a request via estates and facilities management for a permanently fixed installation to be located on the wall. Temporary fixed gas systems may be requested for short periods in accordance to the current policy on Temporary fixed gas systems Any new requirements for Flammable gas systems shall be taken off the existing fixed gas supply from the gas cabinet. If there is not a flammable gas system installed a request to estates and facilities management for a fixed permanent gas system shall be made. Any new flammable gas requirement shall be installed into a gas cabinet of no less than 90 minute fire retardant capability. A temporary fixed gas system is NOT permitted for flammable gases. Any new requirements for a Toxic gas systems shall be taken off the existing fixed gas supply from the toxic gas cabinet. If there is not a toxic gas system installed a request via estates and facilities management for a fixed permanent gas system shall be made. Any new toxic gas requirement shall be installed into a gas cabinet of no less than 90 minute fire retardant capability and will be complete with an inert gas purge and gas appropriate monitor. A temporary fixed gas system is NOT permitted for flammable gases. It is NOT permitted to make your own gas installation as this may contravene current regulations for pressure systems. 8. Pressure Systems and Written Scheme of Examination In common with many pressure systems, elements of piped compressed gas systems attached to pressure cylinder installations fall within the scope of the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR) (SI 2000/128), e.g. the requirement for a Written Scheme of Examination to be in place prior to the system being used. What is a written scheme of examination? A written scheme of examination is a document containing information about selected items of plant or equipment which form a pressure system, operate under pressure and contain a relevant fluid.

8 The term relevant fluid is defined in the Regulations and covers compressed or liquefied gas, including air, at a pressure greater than 0.5 bar (approximately 7 psi) above atmospheric pressure; pressurised hot water above 110 C; and steam at any pressure. Typical contents of a written scheme of examination include: Identification of the items of plant or equipment within the system; Those parts of the system which are to be examined; The nature of the examination required, including the inspection and testing to be carried out on any protective devices; The preparatory work needed for the item to be examined safely; Where appropriate, the nature of any examination needed before the system is first used; The maximum interval between examinations; The critical parts of the system which, if modified or repaired, should be examined by a competent person before the system is used again; The name of the competent person certifying the written scheme of examination; and The date of certification. Typically a Written Scheme will cover the examination of - All protective devices. All high pressure regulators. All high pressure hoses and pigtails. All pipe work, which, in the event of failure could give rise to danger. In addition, there is a requirement for regular inspection / maintenance checks which technically fall outside the requirements of the Written Scheme of Examination and typically may include- Before use: Visual examination of the condition of the equipment. Regulator creep test. System low pressure leak test at normal operating pressures. Visual and functional check of all system components. Routine replacement of high pressure system components. For additional guidance refer to HSE Leaflet 122 (28), Approved Code of Practice for the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations. Safety of Pressure Systems, and BCGA CP 23 (57), Application of the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 to industrial and medical pressure systems installed at user premises. HSE leaflet INDG178 (rev2) Written schemes of examination. Written Scheme of Examination for standalone compressed gas cylinder installations The HSE has advised owners and users of portable gas (oxy-acetylene or oxypropane) welding and cutting sets that Written Schemes of Examination are not required. However, it should be noted that such equipment can present a risk of fire or explosion if not assembled, operated and maintained correctly. In the case of other equipment covered by this guidance, most stand-alone pressure cylinder installations systems will consist only of a cylinder, regulator & low pressure flexible hose feeding the output of the regulator to the process equipment and is not required to have a Written Scheme of Examination. However, in such cases, a documented assessment of the potential risk should be

9 undertaken, and where this results in recognition that injury could result from a failure of the system, then a Written Scheme of Examination is required to be drawn up. Statutory Compliance The University engage British Engineering Services (BES) to carry out the inspection and testing of Pressure systems in order to comply with the Pressure Systems safety Regulations For new compressed gas installations the supplier/installer must provide a written scheme of examination as part of the project handover operation and maintenance (O&M) information manual. BES can also act as the competent person to provide a consultancy service to prepare written scheme of examinations For new projects and installations the project co-ordinator will be responsible for ensuring a written scheme is in place (where applicable) and notifying Estates of any compressed gas installations that will require future testing under the PSSR For existing installations the Head of College should carry out a review of the compressed gas installations to determine if a written scheme is required and if an inspection /testing is required. If clarification is required Estates should be contacted in the first instance. 9. Temporary Gas Installations Temporary gas installations may only be introduced in accordance with separate temporary gas installation arrangements Only inert and oxidising gases may be subject to temporary installations, no temporary installations may be in place for toxic or flammable gases. 10. Manufacture and initial examination The law requires that gas cylinders are: manufactured to an appropriate standard approved under the relevant legislation (the Carriage Regs or PER); and, examined by a relevant inspection body (a person or body notified or approved by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) under the Carriage Regs or PER ), to verify that the cylinders are manufactured correctly and conform to the appropriate design standard. Owners and fillers should satisfy themselves that the manufacturing requirements have been carried out by examining either: the written certificate which accompanies the gas cylinder; or, the stamp or mark of the relevant inspection body on the gas cylinder itself.

10 11. Specific Hazards and controls by Gas Type There is a standard of colour coding for the shoulders of compressed gas cylinders: 11.1 Inert Gases: Hazards The principle hazard of an inert gas is asphyxiation as inert gases do not support life. In environments where oxygen levels are likely to be displaced by failure of an inert gases cylinder/s below 19.5%, the area is classed as a confined space and the Confined Space Regulations 1997 apply. Safe use of inert gases. Principal Investigators and Academic Supervisors using inert gases must carry out a confined space risk assessment of all areas containing inert gas cylinders: Assess whether the simultaneous catastrophic failure of all inert gas cylinders in use in an area will displace oxygen levels below 19.5%

11 Link to oxygen depletion calculator The calculator below can also be used to determine this Step 1 volume of room (VR) volume of objects (VO) = free volume of air space M 3 (FVAS) Step 2 FVAS - volume of gas (VG) X = Volume of Oxygen M 3 (VO 2 ) Step 3 VO 2 FVAS X 100 = O 2 % in the room If there is potential for oxygen depletion below 19.5%: The area must be fitted with oxygen depletion monitors sited in the operator breathing zone typically 1.4 metres from the floor Repeater alarms must be fitted immediately outside the area or shall be visible or sound from outside the area to prevent any person entering if oxygen depletion has taken place There must be a written emergency plan for each area should oxygen depletion occur. Only those gas cylinders connected to primary gas systems shall be permitted to be located in the laboratory. They shall be restrained by suitable wall mounted gas cylinder bracket located at a suitable height for the size of the gas cylinder and piped to point of use. Recommended wall bracket height for gas cylinders:- BOC Cylinder size Cylinder bracket height from the floor X, Y, VB 600 mm W, VK 900 mm Z 1000 mm 11.2 Oxygen: Hazards The principal hazard is of oxygen enrichment of the atmosphere. Oxygen is crucial to life, but if present in excess can create a significant fire hazard. Most metals, especially in powdered form, burn in oxygen. Fires in an oxygen enriched atmosphere (23% or more) are extremely difficult to extinguish, and many materials that are not normally flammable become so in an oxygen-rich atmosphere. Flash combustion can occur at 26% oxygen concentration. A simple risk assessment calculation can determine if there arises a risk of oxygen enrichment; Step 1 - volume of room (VR) volume of objects (VO) = free volume of air space M 3 (FVAS) Step 2 - volume of oxygen gas (VG) FVAS X 100 = O 2 %

12 Oils, greases, hydrocarbons and other organic materials can spontaneously explode on contact with pure oxygen under pressure. Light metals, such as aluminium are not suited to oxygen service. The recommended materials include copper, copper alloys and ferrous alloys. Safe use of Oxygen Do not use oxygen to sweeten the air, where it is feared that the oxygen level has fallen. Only oxygen regulators should be used. Pipelines for oxygen service must be thoroughly cleaned before use. Tape, including PTFE, MUST NOT be used on fittings. Oxygen should never be used for driving pneumatic tools, inflating vehicle tyres, cooling or refreshing air in confined spaces, or for dusting down apparatus - it is not a substitute for air. Always work in a known environment, gas monitoring by oxygen enrichment monitors where a risk of oxygen enrichment has been identified and or a well ventilated area, windows and vents open. Avoid using oxygen near naked flames, sparks, hot surfaces and large ignition sources. Never use oils, sealing tape, jointing compounds or any hydrocarbons when using high pressure oxygen as it is known to react with all hydrocarbons and ignite on contact when under pressure Flammable Gases: Hazards The Principle hazard of flammable gas is fire and explosion. The contents of cylinders of flammable gases could present a serious fire hazard if they escape and can impede escape if they are involved in a fire. Electrical apparatus can provide the spark that can ignite a cloud of flammable gas, as can static Causing a fire and/or an explosion. Safe Use of Flammable Gases NEVER use any flammable gas or flammable gas mixtures near naked flames, sparks, hot surfaces and large ignition sources. All flammable gases shall be via a fixed gas installation in a gas cabinet fire resistant to 30minutes and all gases to the laboratory will be to a point of use from the gas cabinet Acetylene: Hazards Acetylene is supplied at a pressure of between 15 bar and 17 bar (225 lb/in2) at 15oC. It has a distinctive garlic-like odour, is lighter than air, and can therefore collect in roof spaces.

13 Acetylene is extremely flammable, with ignition limits from 2.5% to 85%. Cylinders for acetylene are filled with a porous substance, lime sulphate, such as kieselguhr, on which acetone is adsorbed. The acetylene is dissolved in the acetone. Mechanical shock to the cylinder, or overheating, may cause decomposition of the gas inside, and this may lead to high temperatures inside with possible detonation. The porous mass inside the cylinder is designed to slow down or to prevent the gas from decomposing. The time from initiation to explosion can be several hours. It can be much quicker if the mass inside the cylinder has been damaged by, for example, repeated flashback, mishandling of the cylinder such as dropping, if the valve is leaking or if the pressures are too high. Safe Use of Acetylene Acetylene cylinders must always be stored and used in an upright position and the gas should not be withdrawn at a rate exceeding one fifth of the cylinder contents per hour, to avoid withdrawing acetone with the acetylene. Only acetylene regulators and other equipment designed solely for use with acetylene must be used. If fittings have to be made up for the acetylene supply it is most important to ensure that copper, copper-rich or silver-rich alloys are not used. Copper or silver in contact with acetylene are liable to form dangerously explosive acetylides. Only metals containing less than 70% copper should be used. If fittings are silver-soldered, no more than 0.3 mm width of filler metal should be exposed at the joint, and the filler should not exceed 21% copper or 43% silver solder. Attempts to compress acetylene are extremely dangerous, and in general illegal. At pressures over about 1.5 bar, the gas becomes explosive, even in the absence of air or an ignition source. Special permission from the Health and Safety Executive is required to work with pressurised acetylene above 1.5 bar. Acetylene reacts violently with copper to form acetylide, EVER use any other gas equipment other than that which is designed for acetylene. NEVER connect acetylene to copper pipe. When used in conjunction with Oxygen for cutting, welding, brazing or heating, flashback arrestors must be used on both the acetylene and oxygen gases. Use only compatible gas regulators and flashback arrestors manufactured in accordance with the current BS EN ISO standards. (Refer to BCGA s CP7 safe use and set up of oxy/fuel systems ) 11.5 Hydrogen: Hazards Hydrogen is lighter than air, colourless, odourless and non-toxic. It is an explosion hazard and is extremely flammable. Concentrations between approximately 4% and 75% will burn, with a flame that is almost invisible. It has a low auto-ignition point, and can ignite spontaneously on release from a cylinder at high pressure. (Reverse Joules Thompson effect) Hydrogen burns with an almost invisible flame and cannot be detected by the human eye., if you suspect a hydrogen flame approach carefully using a long bristle broom or rolled up newspaper held out at arm s length directed toward the suspected hydrogen fire. If discovered evacuate the premises and contact the fire and rescue services.

14 Safe Use of Hydrogen Due to the low auto ignition point hydrogen must NEVER be deliberately vented. The gas will heat up on expansion and can easily reach its auto ignition of 80 o C due to the reverse Joules Thompson effect. Special care should be taken to use only hydrogen regulators. The same thread is used for the other fuel gases, LPG and acetylene, and so regulators designed for use at a much lower pressure with these gases could be connected accidentally to hydrogen cylinders if personnel fail to check Toxic Gases: Hazards Toxic gases and vapours produced, under many circumstances, have harmful effects to humans when exposed by inhalation, being absorbed through the skin, or swallowed. Many toxic substances are dangerous to health in concentrations as little as 1ppm (parts per million). Many toxic gases are hydroscopic and will become corrosive when in contact with water. Safe Use of Toxic Gases Toxic Gases must always be housed in vented gas cabinets vented via the extract system when in use. Only those gas cylinders connected to primary toxic gas system and the inert gas purge system shall be permitted to be located in the gas cabinet (BS EN ). They shall be restrained by suitable wall mounted gas cylinder brackets located at a suitable height for the size of the gas cylinder. (See Table 1) Recommended wall bracket height for gas cylinders:- BOC Cylinder size Cylinder bracket height from the floor X, Y, VB 600 mm W, VK 900 mm Z 1000 mm Toxic gases should never deliberately be mixed with other toxic gases. Toxic gases are either acid base or alkaline base and if mixed can react and cause other toxic substances to be released or can violently react causing explosion. Due to toxic gases being either acid or alkaline base, emergency arrangements must consider what effect it would have if 2 different toxic gases were to come into contact with each other. If experiments call for this to take place a full risk assessment must be completed and submitted to the Responsible Person for approval prior to the experiment taking place. In the event of accidental contact medical treatment must be sought immediately. CLP MSDS s must be consulted for more information for specific toxic gases. Toxic Gas Automatic shut down

15 Supply systems for toxic/hazardous gases must include automatic shut-off devices which are actuated in the event of system failure or other emergency. Examples of automatic shut-off devices include excess flow shut-off valves and remotely actuated gas container or supply valves. For very toxic and pyrophoric gases, supplied from a remote supply point, which is not normally manned, remotely operable isolation valves shall be fitted as near to the gas container as practicable. These shall be capable of activation from a readily accessible position. If not readily accessible, these valves may also be activated by gas monitoring or fire detection equipment or other means. Toxic gas Purging Systems Purging is necessary to maintain the integrity of the system under the following circumstances: During commissioning, to remove air and moisture from the system; During supply container changeover, to remove process gas or air and moisture from the container connection; For system maintenance purposes, to reduce process gas to a safe concentration level prior to opening the system and to remove air and moisture before re-introducing process gas; During an emergency, when it may be necessary to purge a gas quickly from the system. The following supply requirements apply: Purge gas sources should preferably be dedicated to single process gas applications to avoid back contamination (piped house supply nitrogen shall not be used). Where this is not practicable, purge gas should only be shared by compatible process gases; Purge gas supply containers shall be fitted with appropriate pressure reducing regulators and flow control valves; Purge gas supply system materials shall be chemically compatible with the process gas(es) being purged; If the process gas container is located inside a gas cabinet then the associated purge gas container should also be located within the same or other gas cabinet; The purge gas system, including the container, shall be capable of withstanding the maximum pressure that could be delivered from the process gas container (e.g. in the event of back feeding); A means shall be provided to ensure that sufficient purge gas is available to complete the purging operation (e.g. Pressure gauge and instruction to change purge gas container when not finished??? Storage All spare toxic and inert gas cylinders shall be located in the gas cylinder store and only brought into the laboratory when a change of gas cylinder is required. Spare toxic and inert gas cylinders will NOT be permitted to be stored in the laboratory. Toxic gases must be segregated from other types of gas in storage (refer to BCGA GN2 doc) (hyperlink) 12. Gas Cabinets All toxic and flammable gases shall be point of use from within a 30 minute rated fire cabinet. Inert gases and oxygen are not required to be stored in cabinets.

16 Labelling There shall be a label and a hazard warning sign, in accordance with Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations / BS EN ISO 7010, Graphical symbols. Safety colours and safety signs. Registered safety signs, displayed on each cabinet identifying the gas and its potential hazard. A further sign shall be displayed in the area in a clear and visible location, giving emergency information (including emergency telephone numbers, action to be taken in an emergency and a list of the gases present in the area). Air monitoring Consideration shall be given to the monitoring of the air inside cabinets containing toxic gases and flammable gases. The cabinet shall be provided with sufficient extraction ventilation to achieve the following: Prevent any escape of any hazardous gases to the workplace, with or without the valve manipulation window open; Maintain the potential concentration of flammable gases in the extracted air to below 25 % of the lower flammable limit, except in the event of a catastrophic leak. Ventilation The ventilation system shall be provided with a control and monitoring system of high reliability, to give warning of extraction ventilation failure. Where flammable gases are connected, the cabinet and ventilation shall be designed such that the possibility of a flammable atmosphere inside the cabinet is prevented under normal operating conditions. Other precautions should be considered to cover abnormal conditions such as ventilation failure, catastrophic gas leak, etc. Suitable precautions could include one or more of the following: Exclude electrical equipment; Electrical equipment inside the cabinet meeting ATEX Zone 2 requirements; Automatic gas / electrical shutdown in the event of ventilation failure; Automatic gas / electrical shutdown coupled to a flammable gas detector. The cabinet and all the equipment within the cabinet shall be electrically bonded to earth. This shall be separate from the electric power supply earth. Gas cabinets may share the same extraction ducting providing the mixing of incompatible gases is not possible within the ducting and back feeding of an incompatible gas is not possible in the case of failure or shutdown of the extraction system. Compatible gases in cabinets; Never use or store more than 1 toxic gas in a gas cabinet at any time. Only the toxic gas and the relative inert purge gas to be stored in the gas cabinet at any time. Different flammable gases may be used in the same gas cabinet. It would be prudent to only use separate gas cabinets for each gas to avoid any potential issues of one flammable gas issue affecting the other flammable gas cylinder in the same gas cabinet. 13. Changing a Compressed Gas Cylinder Only persons that have completed the following training are authorised to change a compressed gas cylinder: SU Gas Safe e-learning

17 Practical training in handling cylinders form the College/PSU competent person Users shall follow the following Standard Operating Procedures in changing of gas cylinders using only the correct tools and PPE. Gas regulators Regulator safety issues: Always use a primary gas regulator of the correct type with a suitable pressure output range for the intended application: cylinders must not be used without an appropriate regulator. Regulators must conform to BS EN ISO 2503:1998 Never force a regulator or high pressure hose that does not fit the cylinder Never use adapters for attaching regulators or high pressure hoses. Treat regulators as delicate instruments, and store them carefully so that they are not jarred or knocked, and inlet and outlet connections are kept clean Competent staff should check Regulators and high pressure for damage each time prior to use Primary cylinder regulators shall be annually inspected by a competent person A primary cylinder Regulator replacement programme should be implemented based upon BCGA CP4 Guidelines.(replace every 5 years from date of manufacturer or in line with manufacturers recommendations) 14. Leak Testing Leaks may develop in any part of a gas system, particularly at joints. Performing a leak test always check for leaks when cylinders are assembled with equipment, prior to use ensure the leak detect solution is compatible with the materials used in the equipment construction incompatible solutions can lead to stress corrosion and cracking of the cylinder valve oil based solutions, or those containing fatty acids, can ignite if they come in contact with oxygen. For this reason soapy water or washing up liquid must not be used BOC recommends using: - CFC-free Leak Detector Spray - A solution of 1% Teepol HB7 solution in demineralised water. all equipment in a gas system must be checked for leaks after assembly and corrective action taken before use check with the manufacturer to ensure the leak detect solution is compatible with any material they may come in contact with the leak test solution should be applied to ALL joints use a small quantity of dilute leak detect solution for effective leak detection apply the leak detect solution to joints and any potential leakage points such as at the point of connection of the cylinder valve with the regulator never apply leak test solution into a cylinder valve outlet

18 if there is any frothing the system should be immediately depressurised and the leak corrected do not use the equipment until the leak has been rectified ensure the area is dry by wiping with a clean lint free cloth after the check has been completed once the leak has been rectified re-purge air from the system prior to use hoses with leaks, cuts, burns or local surface damage should be replaced with new industry approved fitted hose manufactured to the standard BS EN 1256 examine the cutting or welding nozzle regularly and if it is becoming clogged replace with new or clean it in the manner described by the manufacturer's instructions keep equipment clean. In particular oxygen regulators must be kept in a clean area when not in use pay special attention to pressure regulators. If a regulator is defective replace it immediately British Compressed Gases Association Code of Practice 7 specifies the recommended checks and replacement cycles for portable oxy-fuel gas equipment. Guidance note GN7 gives similar recommendation for other portable gas cylinder equipment 15. Personal Protective Equipment Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is to be provided as required by the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations. PPE may only be considered as a control to achieve an acceptable level of residual risk after other levels of control have been addressed. The risk assessment will determine the requirement for the use of PPE. 16. Training Compressed Gas Training (Process) Any person (including staff, post graduates and under graduates) who require use of compressed gas cylinders will be required to carry out both theory (e-learning) and practical safety training prior to use. Academic / Line Manager / Research Supervisor/ staff (PDR) will identify training needs and inform the College Health & Safety Coordinator (H&S Coordinator) The H&S Co-ordinator will issue a specific e-learning training code to the individual Upon successfully completing the course individuals will be referred to the manual handling training by the safety co-ordinator The H&S Co-ordinator notifies the Academic / Line Manager / Research Supervisor/ staff that both training elements have been completed. The College Technician maintains records and informs SHE that training has been completed and informs individuals if and when refresher training is to be carried out. Note: The Gas Safe Certificate remains valid for a period of 2 years from the date of Certification. Refresher Training will then be required.

19 17. Outdoor Storage All gas containers are to be stored in accordance with BCGA GN 2 (59), Guidance for the Storage of gas cylinders in the workplace. All storage areas shall be located with due regard to the minimum recommended separation distances specified detailed in GN 2 Table 2. It is permitted to store the flammable gases, inert gases and oxygen in the same storage area. All toxic gases must be stored separately and a minimum separation of 3m away from all other gases. All gas cylinders shall be individually supported by suitable cylinder brackets located at a height suitable for the size of gas cylinder (see Table 1) Recommended wall bracket height for gas cylinders:- BOC Cylinder size Cylinder bracket height from the floor X, Y, VB 600 mm W, VK 900 mm Z 1000 mm The Gas store is NOT to be used for storage of any other items and shall NEVER be used for the storage of oils, paints and combustible materials. 18. Emergency Procedures All Colleges/PSU s are required to prepare emergency procedures to address risks arising from compressed gas use. These must be specific to the type of gas and the area affected e.g. whether raising the alarm takes persons past the danger area etc. Emergency procedures must cover: oxygen depleted atmosphere oxygen enriched atmosphere toxic gas release flashback A copy of all emergency procedures must be shared with the Resilience Manager in Estates & Facilities Management to ensure that they can form part of the site emergency plan. 19. Transporting Cylinders in Vehicles The transport of gas cylinders is subject to carriage requirements. For example, that: the vehicle is suitable for the purpose; the vehicle is suitably marked to show that it is carrying dangerous goods; the driver is suitably trained; and The driver carries the appropriate documentation about the nature of the gases being carried.

20 The following general guidance should be followed: Fit suitable protective valve caps and covers to cylinders, when necessary, before transporting. Caps and covers help prevent moisture and dirt from gathering in the valve of the cylinder, in addition to providing protection during transport. Securely stow gas cylinders to prevent them from moving or falling. This is normally in the vertical position, unless instructions for transport state otherwise. Disconnect regulators and hoses from cylinders whenever practicable. Do not let gas cylinders project beyond the sides or end of a vehicle (e.g. fork-lift trucks). Ensure gas cylinders are clearly marked to show their contents and the danger signs associated with their contents. It may be necessary to take special measures with certain types and quantities of compressed gases and fluids in order to ensure their safe carriage. An ADR compliant fire extinguisher appropriate for the gas type MUST be carried. 20. Quartzy The gases in the laboratories will be managed through the laboratory management system- Quartzy. The chemical and gas inventories built into Quartzy will allow the user to identify the nature, quantity and location of hazardous chemical holdings within the workplace. This provides baseline knowledge for identifying and understanding the risks posed by the chemicals and gases. The tool will also be used for ordering purposes based by integrating it with the existing procurement system of the colleges. The tool can be accessed through this link Laboratory technicians and researchers will be required to input following information in Quartzy under a relevant database category e.g. Bay Campus chemicals or Singleton Campus chemicals. - Vendor name e.g. BOC - Item type: BOC gases - Item name e.g. Nitrogen - Quantity - Unit size - URL of the MSD or attach MSDS as a file - Owner - Date added - Last updated by - Location - Sub location

21 SWANSEA UNIVERSITY REQUIREMENTS FOR GAS SUPPLY POINTS OUTSIDE BUILDING PIPED IN PREFERRED OPTION WRITTEN SCHEME OF INSPECTION REQUIRED FLAMMABLES OPTION 2 (JUSTIFICATION FOR NON OPTION 1 REQUIRED) FIXED INSTALLATION (NO TEMPORARY INSTALLATION) 30 MINUTE FIRE RATED GAS CABINET PIPED TO POINT OF USE FROM CABINET TOXICS ALL SUPPLY FIXED INSTALLATION (NO TEMPORARY INSTALLATION) 30 MINUTE FIRE RATED GAS CABINET PIPED TO POINT OF USE FROM CABINET TEMPORARY INSTALLATION (IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROCEDURES) INERTS ALL SUPPLY CONFINED SPACE RISK ASSESSMENT REQUIRED TO INFORM NEED FOR MONITORS/ALARMS CONNECTED TO PRIMARY GAS SYSTEM, RESTRAINED BY SUITABLE WALL MOUNTED GAS CYLINDER BRACKET LOCATED AT A SUITABLE HEIGHT FOR THE SIZE OF THE GAS CYLINDER AND PIPED TO POINT OF USE. WRITTEN SCHEME OF INSPECTION REQUIRED