Oxygen Safety Precautions
Use emergency oxygen equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions, in a manner consistent with federal and local regulations, and according to local protocols. Never attempt to refill an oxygen cylinder; only an appropriately licensed professional should do this. Specific attention should be given to the following areas concerning oxygen cylinders:
■ Check for cylinder leaks, abnormal bulging, or defective or inoperative valves
or safety devices.
■ Check for the physical presence of rust or corrosion on a cylinder or cylinder neck,
and any foreign substances or residues, such as adhesive tape, around the cylinder
neck, oxygen valve or regulator assembly. These substances can hamper oxygen
delivery and in some cases may have the potential to cause a fi re or explosion.
Also, follow these guidelines:
■ Do not stand oxygen cylinders upright unless they are well secured. If the cylinder falls, the
regulator or valve could become damaged or cause injury due to the intense pressure in
the tank.
■ Do not use oxygen around flames or sparks, including smoking materials such as cigarettes,
cigars and pipes. Oxygen causes fi re to burn more rapidly and intensely.
■ If defibrillating, make sure that no one is touching or is in contact with the victim or the
resuscitation equipment. Do not defibrillate someone when around flammable materials,
such as free-flowing oxygen or gasoline.
■ Do not use grease, oil or petroleum products to lubricate or clean the regulator. This could
cause an explosion.
■ Do not drag or roll cylinders.
■ Do not carry a cylinder by the valve or regulator.
■ Do not hold on to protective valve caps or guards when moving or lifting cylinders.
■ Do not deface, alter or remove any labeling or markings on the oxygen cylinder.
■ Do not attempt to mix gases in an oxygen cylinder or transfer oxygen from one cylinder
to another.