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Filling

Containers must be refilled by a gas manufacturer, gas distributor, or someone qualified in the refilling of aircraft oxygen cylinders. The markings stamped into cylinders shall not be removed or changed. The user shall not deface or remove any markings, labels, decals, tags, or stencil marks applied by the supplier and used for identification of content.

The user shall not change, modify, tamper with, obstruct, or repair the pressure-relief devices. The user shall not repair or alter containers or container valves. Any other damage noted that might impair the safety of the container shall be called to the attention of the gas supplier refilling the container.

Transporting

Containers should not be used as rollers, supports, or for any purpose other than to contain the appropriate contents. The user should keep container valves closed at all times (charged or empty) except when the container is in use.

Storing

Compressed gas containers should not be subjected to atmospheric temperatures above 130 degrees F. A flame shall never be permitted to come in contact with any part of a compressed gas container. Containers shall not be stored near readily ignitable substances such as gasoline, waste papers, or combustibles of any kind. Containers shall not be exposed to continuous dampness, or sunlight.

Handling

Only properly trained persons shall handle compressed gases. The user responsible for the handling and connection of the container shall check the identity of the gas inside by reading the label or other markings on the container before use. If marking does not identify container content, the container shall be returned to the supplier without using it. Container color shall not be relied upon for content identification.

Connections that do not fit should not be forced. Threads on regulator connections or other auxiliary equipment should match those on container valve outlets. Regulators, gauges, hoses and other appliances provided for use with a particular gas or group of gases should not be used on containers containing gases having different chemical properties. You may interchange parts only if information is obtained from the supplier indicating that it can be done safely. As an example; only pressure-regulating devices approved for use with oxygen should be used in oxygen service.

Putting in Service

Container valve should be opened slowly for safety. Valve outlets should be pointed away from you and other persons. Valve wheels or levers should not be hammered in attempting to open or close the valve. For valves that are hard to open or frozen because of corrosion, the supplier should be contacted for instructions. Before a regulator is removed from a container, the container valve should be closed and the regulator drained of gas pressure. Oxygen containers, valves, regulators, hose, and other oxygen apparatus should be kept free from oil or grease. They shall not be handled with oily hands, oily gloves, or with greasy equipment.

Transfilling

Transfilling of compressed gas from one tank to another is not recommended. If done, it must be carried out by a properly trained professional in a controled environment using proper equipment.