scope:

Introduction and Scope

Compressed gases, stored and shipped in high-pressure containers and transferred under pressure, are being used in increasing quantities for scores of purposes ranging from fumigation to breathing. More than 100 different gases, plus an uncounted number of mixtures, are distributed through normal trade channels. Some gases are deadly poisonous, others are combustible or corrosive, and some so chemically unreactive as to truly deserve the term "inert."

Each gas or mixture is best adapted to fill a specific need; thus, the substitution of one gas for another may have serious consequences. Explosion, asphyxiation, or product spoilage may be the result of using the wrong gas.

This data sheet outlines some basic precautions that can be taken to minimize the inadvertent substitution of one gas for another. In addition, simple tests which can serve to classify gases in the broad categories of combustibles, combustion supporters, and incrts are described.

The methods described herein may be used by anyone desiring to do so, but neither the American Petroleum Institute nor any of its members shall be held responsible or liable in any way either for loss or damage resulting there from, or for the violation of any federal, state, or municipal regulations with which they may conflict.