When working with compressed gases, what is a vital safety precaution?

When working with compressed gases, ensuring proper storage and handling procedures to prevent leaks and explosions is critical for maintaining safety. This precaution is essential because compressed gases are often under high pressure and can pose significant risks if not handled correctly. Leaks from gas cylinders can lead to dangerous situations, such as fires, explosions, or exposure to toxic gases. Proper storage involves securing cylinders upright in designated areas, using caps for transport, and following guidelines for segregation of incompatible gases.

Monitoring gas levels in the environment, while important, does not directly address the immediate risks associated with the handling and storage of the gases themselves. Similarly, while wearing gloves is an important safety measure when handling certain materials, it does not specifically mitigate the dangers associated with compressed gases. Proper insulation of pipes may help in other contexts but is not a primary safety concern focused on the handling of gas cylinders directly. The emphasis on storage and handling underscores the critical need for protocols that prevent accidents and ensure safe working conditions around compressed gases.