Drivers, respiratory therapists, warehouse personnel, and others who handle compressed gas cylinders should do so using the proper equipment to ensure safe movement of the cylinders.  Compressed gas cylinders are pressure vessels that are capable of becoming propelled objects (think rockets!) if the contents are suddenly exhausted, either by mishap or accident. The rapid discharge of gas can happen if the cylinders are dropped and either the valve or other part of the cylinder becomes damaged or broken. If a cylinder is dropped and takes off, it can cause injury, property damage or worse.

To prevent cylinders from being dropped, use carriers, bags, or carts when handling and moving cylinders, particularly multiple cylinders. Do not try to carry a large number of cylinders under your arms. One wrong move or trip can result in the cylinders being dropped and potentially damaged. 

Carriers can be constructed of several types of materials. The durability of the carrier is often reflected in the type of material that they are made of. Choose the type of carrier that will best allow the performance of the task to be accomplished in a safe manner. Carriers can be constructed from cardboard, cloth, or metal. They are ideal for delivery drivers who need to carry several cylinders to their truck or into a patient’s house.

Cylinder bags can be useful ways to move cylinders using a lightweight material. Cylinder bags are made of heavy duty cloth and will usually fold up into a small space minimizing the area in which the bags need to be stored when not in use. They are ideal for respiratory therapists who handle small numbers of cylinders at infrequent intervals.