Why the Proper Storage and Handling of Medical Gases Matters

Medical gases are vital for various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, from powering medical devices to providing anesthesia and breathing support. Storing and handling these gases properly is crucial for minimizing the risks of accidents, injuries and property damage.

Medical gases are stored under high pressure, making them at risk for fire or explosions if not handled appropriately. Some medical gases are toxic, and most canisters are extremely heavy, adding extra risk to incorrect storage and handling.

Due to these potential hazards, healthcare and medical facilities must follow strict medical gas storage standards and safety recommendations. Learn more about gas storage and accessibility considerations in health care facilities below.

Common Hazards of Medical Gas Cylinder Storage

Storing and handling medical gases correctly is key to creating a safer environment. Appropriate processes minimize the risks and hazards that can occur from improper actions. Common but dangerous hazards include: 

• Fire hazards: Many medical gases are nonflammable, but other gases are, like ethylene oxide, which is used for sterilization. Oxygen, a common and necessary gas in medicine, is nonflammable but supports combustion. Should oxygen leak, it contributes to a fire hazard.
• Physical risks: Gas cylinders are under high pressure, and storing or handling them incorrectly can cause them to rupture or explode. Cylinders are also extremely heavy. If a cylinder ruptures or falls over, it can create serious safety issues.
• Asphyxiation and health hazards: Inert gases can displace oxygen if they leak, which can lead to asphyxia. Other medical gases are toxic. Exposure to carbon monoxide, a gas used as an anti-inflammatory agent, can cause death. 

Regulations and Compliance in Medical Gas Storage

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) both publish regulations for compliance in medical gas storage.

OSHA Requirements for Medical Gases

The OSHA requirements for storing, using and handling compressed medical gases include the following:

• 1910.101(a): Cylinders must be inspected visually to determine they are in a safe condition. 
• 1910.101(b): Compressed gases must be handled, stored and used in accordance with Compressed Gas Association requirements.
• 1910.101(c): Compressed gas cylinders must have pressure relief devices installed. These devices must be installed and maintained in accordance with guidelines published by the Compressed Gas Association (29 CFR 1910.101(b) and Pamphlet P-1-1965).

Additionally, in regard to surgical suite compressed gases, OSHA states that all cylinders must be in an upright position — whether empty or full — and cylinders must be secured so they do not drop or strike any objects with force. When transporting medical gases, the cylinders must be secured with protective caps and should never be rolled or dragged.  

NFPA Standards

NFPA 99, also referred to as the “Health Care Facilities Code,” is a detailed outline of standards created by the NFPA to minimize the risk of fires, explosions and other related hazards in medical settings. Part of the guidelines and standards focuses specifically on carefully storing and using medical gases.

Some of the basic recommendations outlined in NFPA 99 for health care facilities include:

• Clearly labeling and color coding piping systems. 
• Storing gases in designated, well-ventilated areas. 
• Separating gases accordingly to prevent cross-contamination or other potential hazards. 
• Ensuring regular inspections, maintenance and staff training and education.

The NFPA also has requirements to ensure health care facilities adhere to fire codes.

Best Practices for the Safe Handling and Storage of Medical Gases

These practices can help medical professionals avoid common mistakes when handling and storing medical gas cylinders.

1. Label Gas Cylinders for Identification

Gas canisters, valves, station inlets and outlets, distribution piping, alarm panels, and source equipment should be color-coded and labeled appropriately. There should be a wraparound label on all canisters that identify the gas and other key properties.

The name of the gas must be written in lettering that is at least 2 inches high and be either in white against the proper designated color or written in the correct designated color. The label should clearly indicate the gas is “for medical use.” Other components, like valves, should also be clearly labeled. 

The color codes for medical gases are as follows:

• Medical air: Yellow
• Carbon dioxide: Gray
• Helium: Brown
• Nitrogen: Black
• Nitrous oxide: Blue
• Oxygen: Green
• Mixture or blend: Corresponding colors for each gas component in the mixture

2. Store Gas Cylinders Safely and Accessibly

Following medical gas storage standards are crucial for creating a safer environment. Some of the best practices to follow for storing medical gases include: 

• Implementing fire-resistant enclosures for cylinder storage and supply systems.
• Separating oxidizing gases — storing inert (nonflammable) gases in the enclosures is permissible. 
• Ensuring enclosures have the correct vents. 
• Installing proper gas monitoring systems and smoke detectors. 

Keep in mind that although they should be enclosed, gases must still be accessible, especially in emergency situations. 

3. Train Staff on Safety Requirements for Gas Cylinders

Training for risk management in health care facilities typically includes education on proper gas cylinder labeling and storage. All medical personnel working with or around gases should receive training and regular refresher courses in handling medical equipment and supply systems correctly.

Staff should also be trained on how to use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and eye protection, and how to properly inspect and maintain cylinders. Personnel must also be trained in emergency protocol in the event of a gas leak, fire or other hazard.

Get in touch with a Meritus Gas team expert to learn more about finding the right PPE and safety equipment for your team.

4. Implement Gas Monitoring

One of the most vital elements of storing gases is having reliable and well-maintained gas monitoring and leak detection systems, as well as smoke alarms. There are various types of gas sensors and systems available. Multigas sensors are an effective choice as they can detect a range of gases, including combustible gases and other common medical gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Explore Medical Gas Solutions With Meritus Gas Partners

Following approved methods and safety regulations for storing and handling medical gas is essential for all medical facilities. Regulations and protocols for handling medical gas are in place to help keep staff, patients, visitors and property more secure. 

At Meritus Gas, our partners are reliable and trusted distributors in the industry you can turn to for your medical gas supplies and solutions. Our partners provide quality gas that helps you streamline operations and maintain compliance with government regulations. Our partners also provide PPE and other safety equipment that equips staff to handle and store gas.

To get started, visit one of our branches or contact us for any additional information.