The Importance Of Proper Ventilation In Storing Compressed Gas

What is a compressed gas? If we take the words of The OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, the compressed gas is a gas or a mixture of gases having, in a contained state, an absolute pressure that has exceeded 40 psi at 70°.

Do you know what happens when any of these few conditions get tainted? To prevent yourself and your surroundings from any haphazard occurring by the exposure of compressed gas, you have to follow a certain amount of precautionary steps. One of those points is ventilation.

Why Is Ventilation Significant?

To store the cylinder containing Medical Gas, or any kind of gas for that matter, a well-designed and well-maintained ventilation system has to be maintained. The significance of these techniques lies in removing gases from the workplace so that the chances of occurrence of any hazards can be reduced. Here are some of the factors you must keep in mind.

● The amount, as well as the type of ventilation that is needed solely, depends on the type of occupation, the number of materials used in the job, and the size and layout of the work area.

● You need to assess the specific ways your workplace tends to store, handle, use, and dispose of its Medical Grade Oxygen or any compressed gas. The assessment will help reveal the existing destination methods and controlling methods. You can understand whether they are adequate or need adjustment.

● Depending on the assessment, some places may require an installation of the complete system of hoods and ducts so that ventilation can take place. Meanwhile, others may require a single and well-placed exhaust fan.

● However, if the compressed gas includes hazardous materials such as chlorine, you will require an additional emergency ventilation system. Moreover, a continuous monitoring system and appropriate alarms have to be put in place to create awareness.

● One could choose to use a small number of inert gases. It will eliminate the option of needing a special ventilation system.

Ending note:

All these points are significant in assuring that the ventilation system is installed accordingly. However, you also have to make sure that the ventilation system is designed and built to not lead to any unintended hazards. The ducts, hoods, air cleaner, and fan should be made with materials that are compatible with the compressed gas. The main aim is not to create any chance that may lead to an explosion.