LABORATORY SAFETY MANUAL

Site Map of Manual

Lab Safety Manual
1st Page

Chapter 1
Emergency Response

Chapter 2
General Safety

Chapter 3
Chemical Hygiene Plan

Chapter 4
Radiological Safety

Chapter 5
Biological Hygiene Plan

Chapter 6
Laser Safety

Chapter 7
Administrative Concerns

Chapter 8
Standard & Special Operating Procedures

Chapter 9
Facility Data

---

Appendicies

Bibliography

Glossary

Index

On-Campus Contact Information

---

1st Rule of Lab Safety

Haz-Waste No-No

---

Updated December 1999

Emergency Response
Section 1.4 - Leaking Compressed Gas Cylinders

Occasionally, a cylinder or one of its component parts develops a leak. Most such leaks occur at the top of the cylinder in areas such as the valve threads, safety device, valve stem, and valve outlet.

If a leak is suspected, do not use a flame for detection; rather, a flammable-gas leak detector or soapy water or other suitable "snoop" solution should be used. If the leak cannot be remedied by tightening a valve gland or a packing nut, emergency action procedures should be effected. Laboratory workers should never attempt to repair a leak at the valve threads or safety device; rather, they should consult with the supplier for instructions.

If the substance in the compressed gas cylinder is not inert, or is hazardous, then use the procedures in Section 1.1 - "Chemical Spills."

If the substance in the compressed gas cylinder is inert, or non-hazardous, contact the supplier for instructions.