Know your gases
Know and understand the properties and hazards associated with each gas before use. Cylinders should only be handled by experienced and properly trained personnel.

Acetylene
Acetylene has a distinct garlic-like odour and is slightly lighter than air. Acetylene mixed with air or oxygen is explosive within a wide range. Do not use equipment containing more than 65% copper.

Oxygen
Oxygen is a colourless and odourless gas which is slightly heavier than air. Pure oxygen vigorously increases combustion. Oil, grease or fat in contact with oxygen will self-ignite or explode. Never use oxygen as a substitute for compressed air.

Check your equipment
Always keep your welding tools in good condition. Replace faulty regulators, flashback arrestors, hoses, etc. Keep oil and grease away from the equipment. Do not use adaptors and do not force connections which do not fit.

Cylinder care
Never use hammers, spanners, or other tools to force a valve open, use hand power only. Do not expose cylinders to abnormal mechanical shocks which may cause damage to the cylinder bodies, porous mass in acetylene cylinders or valves.

Flash back
Use of approved safety devices such as flashback arrestors and non-return valves is vital to your safety. Also keep your equipment in good condition to avoid serious flashbacks.

Do not transfer gases
Never attempt to transfer gases between cylinders. Filling of cylinders must only be performed by authorized personnel at filling stations. Failure to observe this rule has unfortunately led to loss of life.

Gas distribution systems
For safety and efficiency reasons, we recommend cylinders to be stored in separate rooms or compartments preferably with the use of gas distribution systems. Never store cylinders below decks or in the engine room.

In case of fire
Remove all cylinders to a safe place. If not possible, cool cylinders with copious amounts of water from a sheltered position. Continue cooling until the cylinders remain cold. Acetylene cylinders must be checked for subsequent heat increase, indicating decomposition. If so, continue to cool and when cold throw cylinders over board.

Ensure good ventilation.
Compressed gases, if released in sufficient quantities, will replace the air's natural oxygen and cause asphyxiation without warning. Always ensure good ventilation in rooms or confined spaces where cylinders are stored or used.

Abuse of cylinders
Never use cylinders as rollers, supports, props, or for any other purpose than to contain the gas as supplied. Avoid placing cylinders where they might become part of an electrical circuit.

Avoid extreme temperatures
Avoid exposure of cylinders to extremes of heat or cold. Store cylinders away from sunshine or other sources of heat. Never apply heat to a cylinder to increase flow capacity.

Hazardous materials
Always store cylinders away from oil, acids, chemicals and salt water in order to avoid risks of fire and excessive corrosion. It is recommended to store cylinders on galvanised steel supports to prevent corrosion.

Transport of gases
Do not lift a cylinder by the valve or protection cap. Never use lifting magnets, chains or straps when lifting cylinders on board. Use a cylinder trolley or other suitable device for transporting cylinders, even for short distances.