Compressed gases, by their nature, are hazardous. They are all capable of creating environments that are flammable, oxygen enriched, or oxygen deficient. Even gases such as nitrogen, which is present in our atmosphere at a level of almost 80%, can displace the oxygen in a room or enclosure and cause suffocation. Never deliberately breathe, or allow others to breathe any compressed gases of any type. It is possible to deplete the oxygen in the bloodstream, and cause a rapid suffocation and death.

Let’s examine some special safety features to keep in mind when transporting and using compressed gases.

1. The Department of Transportation (DOT) sets exact limits on the weight of hazardous materials that may be transported before vehicle placarding is required. Remember that when you are transporting cylinders, you are transporting hazardous materials. Vehicle placarding is required when the total weight (both cylinders and their gas contents) reaches a combined weight of 1,000 pounds or more. Placards are "signs" that tells others around you that you are transporting hazardous materials.
2. Transporting cylinders in cars, vans, or in any enclosed vehicle is extremely dangerous and should be avoided. Never transport flammable gases in the trunk or passenger compartment of a vehicle. Many persons disregard this warning each year, and there are many vehicle explosions as a result.
3. Always install the protective cap on the cylinders when they are transported, or any time they are not in use. Many cylinders (oxygen for example) contain pressures that are in excess of 2,000 pounds per square inch. A broken valve is all it takes for the cylinder to become an unguided missile.
4. Secure your cylinders when in transport. DOT regulations require that all compressed gas cylinders be secured from movement during transportation. Cylinders that can move can open accidentally, or roll off the vehicle into the path of oncoming traffic.
5. Leaving cylinders near a source of heat, such as a furnace or water heater, or inside a vehicle is an invitation for disaster. Keep the cylinders in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from a source of heat or ignition.
6. Always return cylinders for filling when they are down to 25 pounds of pressure. This helps prevent a dangerous gas mixture from forming in the cylinder itself or the attached equipment. "Check valves" are important safety feature, but don’t rely on them 100% to prevent a "back-flow" condition.
7. Tell the personnel that fill your cylinders if you believe there is a possibility that the cylinders may have been damaged. They will take special care in checking them for you. Never conceal damage, contamination, or attempted repairs to a cylinder.
8. Contamination of cylinder surfaces with oil, grease, or any type of hydrocarbon material is highly dangerous. This poses the real possibility of an explosion caused from the friction of the material moving through the lines. Never lubricate any part of the valve, cylinder, or attached equipment. Never allow the cylinders to be stored or transported where contamination may get either in or on the surface of the cylinders. Never handle cylinders with oily gloves or hands.
9. The best way to move a cylinder is with a cylinder cart. Never move cylinders by laying them down and rolling them, as this subjects the cylinder side-wall to damage.
10. Keep a fire extinguisher close at hand. Situate flammable gas cylinders in a location so that if a fire does occur, it may be easily extinguished. In some situations, it may be better to evacuate the area and let the cylinder burn; especially if escaping gas could collect and explode.
11. Never attempt to repair the cylinder, its valve, or other attachments. Repairs require special training and equipment, and should only be performed by authorized persons. Again, never use oils or lubricates on the cylinder, valve, or attached equipment.
12. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Your welding or gas supplier will assist you as much as possible. If they can’t, they will likely place you in touch with others that can.
13. Free information is contained in publications called Material Safety Data Sheets, or "MSDS." These are available for each gas product you purchase. Take advantages of this free service and be informed of the dangers associated with gas products. You might even consider posting MSDS in your classroom or shop for your students to read and learn more about the gas product, and its safe use.
14. Finally, when cylinders are stored, be sure to secure them adequately so they will not fall over. Chain them to a secure object (i.e. to the wall). This recommendation pertains to both full and empty cylinders. This is especially important if you are storing cylinders (i.e. helium) in the classroom.

For those of you who use cylinders, please consider these warnings and take the necessary protections while transporting and using compressed gases. As Ag teachers, we must be good role models in so many ways, as well as create a safe learning environment for our students. Teach your students about safety measures that must be associated with compressed gases. Their lives may depend on your instruction!