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safety handling

Refrigerant Cylinder Handling and Transport

Move and store refrigerant cylinders without injury or lost refrigerant.

11 steps5 criticalLimit 5 minAlways tested

Steps

  1. 1Look the cylinder over before you move it: label, valve, and any dents, leaks or heat damage
  2. 2Confirm the cylinder suits the job: refillable DOT recovery cylinders are yellow and gray; never refill a disposable one
  3. 3Critical stepCheck any test-date marking on a refillable cylinder; do not fill one that is overdue
  4. 4Critical stepWhen filling a recovery cylinder, do not fill it past 80 percent full (EPA lists the risks of filling more than 80 percent); use the cylinder's marked limits
  5. 5Keep the valve protection cap on whenever the cylinder is moved or not connected for use
  6. 6Move cylinders on a hand truck or cart; never drag, slide or roll them, and never lift by the cap
  7. 7Critical stepKeep the cylinder upright and secured so it cannot fall or be knocked over
  8. 8Critical stepKeep cylinders from getting hot: no higher than 125 F, and take extra care in a service vehicle in summer
  9. 9Never put flame or direct heat on a cylinder, and never repair or alter its valve or relief device
  10. 10Store cylinders in a cool, well-ventilated place out of direct sunlight, away from ignition sources and combustibles
  11. 11Close the valve after each use and when empty, and store full cylinders apart from empty ones

What graders are watching for

Tips
  • Exam recall: recovery cylinders are refillable and DOT approved with a yellow and gray color code. Disposable cylinders are never refilled. EPA lists the risks of filling a cylinder more than 80 percent full.
  • A cylinder holds gas under pressure and the data sheets warn it may explode if heated. Keep it out of hot vehicles and away from flame.
  • Use a cart, and carry by the body, never by the valve cap. The cap protects the valve; it is not a handle.

Common mistakes

  • Moving a cylinder with the cap off, so a knock can break the valve.
  • Rolling or dragging a cylinder instead of using a cart.
  • Lifting by the valve cap.
  • Leaving a cylinder in a hot vehicle or in the sun.
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