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March, 2001 - Separating Fuel / Oxidizing Gases in Storage OSHA has stated that flammable and oxidizing gases must be stored separated by a minimum of 20 feet or by a fire barrier rated at ½ hour at least 5 feet high. The requirement applies to cylinders which are stored as opposed to those in use or ready for immediate use. OSHA considers a cylinder to be "in storage" when it is reasonably anticipated that gas will not be drawn from the cylinder within 24 hours (overnight hours included). In contrast, if it is reasonably anticipated that gas will be used during a 24 hour period, the storage requirement for separation or a fire barrier do not apply. What is "reasonably anticipated" is based on whether specific welding or cutting work is planned and is limited to the number of gas cylinders expected to be required. For example, if 20 gas cylinders are delivered to a worksite where work planned for the next 24 hours is expected to necessitate the use of 8 cylinders, the remaining 12 cylinders are considered to be in storage and must be separated as required by the Standard. OSHA does not consider the requirements to be met by placing an oxygen cylinder and an acetylene cylinder on a welding cart. According to an OSHA interpretative letter, "...they would lack the required separation and there is not normally a fire barrier available for a cart that would meet the requirements of the standard."
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