Transport of Cylinders

When medical oxygen cylinders are required to be transported, ensure that the cylinders are:

• Located in a compartment separated from the driver
• Adequately restrained
• Not leaking and have their valves closed.

The vehicle must be adequately ventilated. Ensure the driver is aware of the potential hazards of the load and knows what to do in the event of an accident or an emergency.  It is advisable to provide the driver with written instructions that detail the actions to be taken in the event of an accident or emergency. Cylinders should be removed from the vehicle as soon as possible.

If you need to use medical oxygen within a vehicle, you are advised to:

• Prohibit smoking in the vehicle
• Only carry the minimum number of cylinders to provide sufficient gas for patient use during the journey/activity
• Ensure all cylinders are adequately restrained
• Keep cylinder valves closed when not in use
• Avoid using the cylinder when the vehicle is being refuelled
• Set the ventilation system to fresh air or open a window to provide adequate ventilation and to prevent oxygen enrichment within the vehicle
• Avoid leaving cylinders unattended in a vehicle. Unless the vehicle is specifically designed to carry medical oxygen cylinders, they should be removed from the vehicle overnight.