How must Oxygen and Acetylene tanks be stored?

Oxygen and Acetylene tanks must be stored in a way that minimizes the risk of fire and explosion, as these gases are highly flammable and can react violently. The best practice involves storing the tanks vertically, which helps to prevent damage and potential leaks, while also providing stable storage.

In addition to being stored upright, the requirement for separation—12 feet apart or on a cart with a half-hour fire barrier—ensures that if a fire were to occur in the vicinity of one tank, the other would be sufficiently protected from ignition sources or flames. This standard is based on safety protocols that focus on reducing the likelihood of these gases coming into contact with one another or with a potential ignition source, thereby enhancing overall safety in environments where these tanks are used.

It’s important to note that the recommendation for a half-hour fire barrier offers adequate protection for most typical working environments, reflecting accepted practices in the industry.