Gas Safety

• Gas Features
• Gas Risks
• Apparatus Safety
• Cylinder Safety
• REACH

Process Safety

• Material Process Fume
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Processes Safety
• Welding & Cutting Hazards

Workplace Safety

• Assessing Risks
• Avoiding Hazards
• Emergency Planning

Safety Services

• Safety Training Workshops
• On-line safety training modules
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• bocsafety.net
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• Safe Under Pressure

Safety Data Sheets

Leak Testing

Performing a leak test

Leaks may develop in any part of a gas system, but particularly at joints.
As a matter of routine always check for leaks when cylinders are assembled with equipment for use.

It is important to ensure the leak detect solution is compatible with the materials used in the equipment construction. Incompatible solutions can lead to stress corrosion cracking of the cylinder valve. Also solutions that contain fatty acids or that have an oil base can ignite if they come in contact with oxygen. For this reason soapy water or washing up liquid must not be used.

BOC recommends using:

• BOC CFC free, Leak detector spray
• A solution of 1% Teepol HB7 solution in demineralised water.

These are available from your nearest Gas+Gear store or by calling 0800 111 333.

• Check with the manufacturer to ensure the leak detect solution is compatible with any material they may come in contact with.
• The leak test solution should be applied to ALL joints.
• It is important that all equipment that is part of a gas system is checked for leaks after assembly and corrective action taken before use.
• Use the smallest quantity and most dilute solution possible for effective leak detection.
• Apply the leak detect solution to joints and any potential leakage points, such as at the point of connection of the cylinder valve with the regulator
• You should never apply leak test solution into a cylinder valve outlet.
• If there is any frothing, the system should be immediately depressurised and the leak corrected.
• Do not use the equipment until the leak has been rectified.
• If in doubt, please contact BOC on 0800 111 333.
• Ensure the area is dry by wiping with a clean lint free cloth after the check has been completed.
• Once the leak has been rectified, re-purge air from the system prior to use.

Regularly check for faults and leaks

Hoses with leaks, cuts, burns or local surface damage should be replaced with new industry approved fitted hose manufactured to the standard BS EN 1256 .
Examine the cutting or welding nozzle regularly and if it is becoming clogged, replace with new or clean it in the manner described by the manufacturer Instructions.
Keep equipment clean. In particular oxygen regulators must be kept in a clean area when not in use. Pay special attention to pressure regulators. If a regulator is defective replace it immediately.
British Compressed Gases Association Code of Practice 7 specifies the recommended checks and replacement cycles for portable oxy-fuel gas equipment. Guidance note GN7 gives similar recommendation for other portable gas cylinder equipment.

Do not use hoses coiled

Ensure that both hoses are of equal length and do not coil surplus hose around the cylinder or regulator or on the floor adjacent to cylinders in storage or use. A fire in a coiled hose is very difficult to extinguish. If you do have surplus hose, position it behind you to keep it clear of sparks.

Leaks around the cylinder valve spindle

Leakage around the spindle of the cylinder valve will be revealed by hissing and in the case of fuel gases, by a smell. Do not use the cylinder and do not attempt to repair the leak. Move the cylinder to an area where the leak can disperse safely, label it and advise BOC.

NEVER USE A FLAME WHEN TESTING FOR LEAKS.

For further information please call free on 0800 111 333