AS 4332-2004

Sets out requirements and recommendations for the storage and handling of gases in cylinders, as classified as Class 2 dangerous goods in the ADG Code. It applies to stores where individual gases (other than those which are covered by specific Australian Standards) are kept, and to stores where more than one type of gas is kept. Requirements for the location, construction and ventilation of stores are given. Recommendations for the management of emergencies and actions in the event of fire are provided in appendices.

1.1.1 General This Standard sets out requirements and recommendations for the safe storage and handling, in cylinders, of gases that are classified as Class 2 substances in the ADG Code (i.e. gases that are compressed, liquefied or dissolved under pressure, including refrigerated liquefied gases, mixtures of one or more gases with vapours or liquids of substances of other classes, articles charged with a gas and aerosols having a capacity of greater than 1 L). The Standard applies to all locations; however, they will generally be industrial, commercial or rural in nature. Residential premises storing less than 10% of the maximum quantities allowable for minor storage shall be exempt from the requirements of this Standard. NOTES: 1 Advice supplementary to that provided in this Standard may need to be sought from the gas supplier. 2 A discussion of the hazards presented by gases in cylinders is provided in Appendix A. For the purposes of this Standard, all cylinders are regarded as full unless gas-freed by the manufacturer or not containing a valve. 1.1.2 Where this Standard is intended to apply This Standard applies to the following situations: (a) The storage of gases in cylinders, where those cylinders are not connected to any system intended for the transport, filling or consumption of the gas, with the exception of minor storage (see Section 2).(b) The storage of bundled (manifolded) cylinders if they are not connected to any point of use. 1.1.3 Where this Standard does not apply This Standard does not apply to the following situations: (a) Gases in dewar flasks, drums, or any containers not covered by the AS 2030 series of Standards.(b) Cylinders in filling, testing or sorting areas.(c) Cylinders that are connected for use, with the exception of minor storage (see Section 2). NOTE: Many of the precautions given in this Standard may be applied to situations where gases in cylinders are connected for use. (d) Cylinders of oxygen and acetylene that are connected to a reticulation system, in which case AS 4289 applies.(e) Portable or mobile oxy-fuel gas systems, which are covered by AS 4839.(f) Cylinders that form part of a fire extinguishment or fire suppression system.

Originated as AS 4332-1995.
Second edition 2004.
Reissued incorporating Amendment No. 1 (August 2005).