Storage of Medical Gases
- At temperatures below -7 degrees centigrade liquefaction and separation of the individual gases in the cylinder can occur. This may lead to delivery of an incorrect mixture. If an Entonox cylinder has been stored at low temperatures it should be laid flat at a temperature above 5 degrees centigrade for over 24 hours and then inverted several times in order to allow remixing of the gases.
- The gases must be stored in an appropriate facility, medical gas cylinders should be stored flat or in appropriate racking system.
- Store cylinders in a well-ventilated, dry environment. Appropriate signage should be displayed on the storage area.
- Keep away from sources of heat or ignition.
- Transportation of medical gas cylinders should follow guidelines with the appropriate warning sign/sticker displayed in the vehicle. Take care when moving cylinders. Do not roll them.
- They should be stored in the correct order/date for replenishment. Cylinders should be replaced once they become 1/4 full. It is wise to have a spare cylinder of oxygen stored, as occasionally a valve may leak on a cylinder