How to Handle and Store CO2 Gas 

Here at Adams Gas, we pride ourselves on being the leading suppliers of gas canister refills and rent-free food-grade CO2 gas bottles across the UK.

We make safety our number one priority, which is why our bottles and equipment undergo regular safety checks.

Our high-quality CO2 cylinders can be used across many industries, and we have sizes for all applications, from 1.5kg up to 34kg.

This blog will discuss how you can safely handle, transport, and store CO2 gas cylinders. 

Safely Handling and Transporting CO2 Cylinders 

When moving any gas cylinder, you should always wear the correct PPE, such as safety goggles or glasses, leather gloves, and safety footwear. This equipment helps to protect yourself and others from falling or slipping cylinders.

Before transporting your CO2 cylinders, depressurise and remove any connections and close the valve. If your cylinder is fitted with a valve cap, you should check that the cap is secure before handling.

If your cylinder has a carrying handle, ensure that it is fixed and not broken before lifting. To lift a cylinder, use proper techniques, including mechanical aids, ramps, trolleys and forklifts as opposed to manual handling. When using a cart or trolley to move a cylinder, always secure it to the cart.

If your cylinder slips at any time during transportation, let it drop you should never try to catch a falling gas cylinder. 

To transport your CO2 gas cylinder, ensure that your vehicle is well ventilated to lessen the risk of fire or explosion. Never cover cylinders with tarpaulin or dust sheets, and the contents label or markings need to be visible at all times.

Secure your cylinders with straps or chains in an upright position to prepare for unexpected manoeuvres or an emergency stop.

Safe Storage for CO2

To store CO2 safely, you must choose an area that’s well-ventilated, clean and cool. Cylinders should always remain in the upright position, secured with a chain or strap.

Regularly check that the valve is sealed tightly and that the cylinders are at a safe distance, at least 20 feet away from intense heat sources or combustible materials.

CO2 will expand when exposed to a temperature increase, so it’s vital to store cylinders in areas with a temperature no higher than 125°F (52°C).

Gas cylinders made from aluminium are conductors of electricity, which means it’s essential to keep them clear from open flames, circuits, metal piping or sparks to avoid the risk of explosion. 

Once your CO2 tank is empty or if it’s not being used, you must ensure that the valve is closed, the regulator is removed, and the valve protector cap is secured in place — if you notice any damage to your valve, contact your supplier straight away.

Operating CO2 Safely 

When operating CO2, you should always do so in a safe and controlled manner. 

To ‘work safely’ with this gas, it’s extremely important to thoroughly understand its characteristics so that you can take suitable precautions. Trained personnel should be on hand to connect, move, transport or disconnect cylinders.

For storage and when in operation, stand cylinders on even floors, secured in the upright position with a chain or strap to prevent them from falling. 

Any rooms or areas containing CO2 systems must have efficient ventilation. If CO2 is discharged or leaking from a cylinder, it will be extremely cold and can cause harm if you come into contact with it.

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If you’re one of our stockists and are interested in expanding your product offering, you can find out more about how you can broaden your customer range with CO2 gas.

Adams Gas should be your first port of call when it comes to gas. We take great pride in our customer service, and we offer delivery in Kent, East Sussex and South London.

If you would like more information about any of our CO2 gas bottles or supplies, please get in touch to speak to a friendly team member who can advise you further.