This Gas Cylinder Storage & Changeover SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers storing, moving and changing over compressed gas cylinders in the workshop, including LPG, acetylene, oxygen, argon and carbon dioxide used for welding, cutting and fabrication. It sets out cylinder inspections, segregation of fuel and oxidising gases, trolley use, bleeding pressure before disconnecting, opening valves safely and leak checking. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Metal fabrication and engineering workshops
Welding contractors
Automotive and mechanical workshops
Manufacturing businesses
TAFE and training workshops
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
What this SOP covers
Fire or explosion from a fuel gas leak near an ignition source
Violent rupture of a cylinder exposed to heat or fire
Oxygen enrichment raising the fire risk in poorly ventilated spaces
Asphyxiation from inert or heavier-than-air gas building up
Crush or impact injury from a falling, tipping or rolling cylinder
Uncontrolled gas release from valve, regulator or fitting failure
Manual handling injury when moving cylinders
Cuts, burns or cold injury from damaged fittings or expanding gas
Flashback into the hose or cylinder during oxy-fuel work
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from cylinder damage and colour coding to segregation, flashback arrestors and fire extinguishers
A 9-step operating procedure covering trolley use, bleeding pressure, connecting regulators, opening valves and leak checks
Isolation and energy control for closing valves, bleeding regulators, fitting outlet caps and segregating fuel and oxygen
5 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for gas leaks, fires and cylinders damaged or exposed to fire
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Steel & Metal Fabrication SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Which gases does it cover?
It covers fuel gases such as LPG and acetylene, oxygen, and other compressed gases such as argon and carbon dioxide used for welding, cutting and fabrication.
How far apart should fuel gas and oxygen be stored?
The SOP requires at least 3 metres between fuel gas and oxygen cylinders, or a suitable fire-rated screen or wall.
Does it cover reticulated or medical gas?
No. Reticulated gas fitting, bulk gas installations and medical gas systems are covered by separate procedures.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.
