Why are all compressed gases considered hazardous?
As defined by the OSHA HCS, compressed gases are “those gases or mixtures of gases that have an absolute pressure of 40 pounds per square inch (psi) at 70° F or an absolute pressure exceeding 104 psi at 130 deg. F, regardless of the pressure at 70 deg. F.” All compressed gases are considered hazardous since they pose a sudden release of pressure or explosion hazard due to the fact that their contents are under very high pressure. Therefore, even compressed gas cylinders of breathing air are considered “hazardous” because of their physical hazard. Many compressed gases also pose health threats when their contents are released because the gases in the containers are classified as “hazardous” by OSHA, based on the gases’ toxicity, irritant properties, ability to displace oxygen, etc.
