Below is information and advice for your safety and others on the proper storage of acetylene gas, what steps you should take and if there is a safer alternative for you to choose.
Acetylene is an industrial gas used for a number of purposes including cutting and welding metal. It is a really useful gas but it can be dangerous if used or stored in the wrong way. It can become especially dangerous if it is involved in a fire, like any other fuel gas such as propane.
Some welding and cutting jobs can be done without acetylene gas. Some of the alternatives are detailed below. It is important however that you carry out a risk assessment for whichever option you choose.
Acetylene is an extremely flammable gas. It can explode if the cylinder is heated. If a cylinder is involved in a fire, the risk of explosion can last for 24 hours after the initial fire has been put out.
If an acetylene cylinder explodes, the dangers can include a 25 metre wide fireball, flying glass and debris, and structural damage.
Firefighters have been killed fighting fires involving acetylene.
When an acetylene cylinder is thought to be involved in a blaze, the fire brigade will create a '24 hour hazard zone' around it and will advice people and businesses to evacuate the area.
The hazard zone will have an initial radius of 200 metres. Many people could be forced to leave their homes. Roads may have to be closed and rail services suspended. Millions of pounds could be lost by businesses.
For some firms this is an inconvenience. For others it could actually lead to the closure of their business. This could leave you or your business at risk of legal action. If there is a fire on your premises, and it involves acetylene, it is very possible that people and businesses may try to seek compensation from you, especially if you have not followed procedures required by the law.
Acetylene is classed as a dangerous substance. If you will be storing or using acetylene over a period of time you must inform the fire authority.
Businesses including those that use acetylene, are required to comply with key laws that include.
Dangerous substance and explosive atmospheres regulations 2002. This requires businesses to assess the risks of work activities with dangerous substances and to eliminate, substitute or reduce the risks as far as reasonably practical.
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order, 2005. This requires a responsible person (typically the business owner) to carry out a fire risk assessment.
The Health and Safety Executive provide several publications that cover the safe use and storage of acetylene cylinders. Take Care with Acetylene (INDG327) and Safety in Gas Welding, Cutting and Similar Processes (INDG297).
If, after considering the risk and alternatives, you realise you do not need to keep acetylene on your premises call your supplier, who should collect your cylinder(s) free of charge. Gas cylinders always remain the property of the supplier. Details of your supplier can be found on the cylinder shoulder-label.
Roger Brett
Group Manager - Emergency Planning
Communications Centre
Town Hall
1 Town Square
Barking
IG11 7LU
Tel (Office): 020 8227 3119
Tel (24 hour): 020 8594 8356
Fax (Office): 020 8227 3296
Fax (24 hour): 020 8227 3470
Email: roger.brett@lbbd.gov.uk|
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