Associated General Contractors
New Mexico Building Branch
1615 University Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM 87102-1791
505-842-1462
FAX: 505-842-1980
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Safety Topic: The Dangers of Flammable Gas

The photos below present an excellent opportunity to teach the dangers of flammable gas – especially acetylene. Thi dramatic explosion occurred because a wireless vehicle door unlocking device was utilized…..(the device we all have on our keychains) to open the door of a van which contained a plumber’s welding materials including a cylinder of acetylene.

Note on the Acetylene MSDS “avoid sparks, fire, flame or static discharge”. FYI, the flashpoint of acetylene is -18.15º C. and -0.7º F. (yes, that’s MINUS 0.7 degrees F.) Also remember, compressed gas cylinders and their regulators take a beating… without expert analysis, it’s difficult to determine if the ASTM 4:1 safety factor rating assigned to compressed gas cylinders is applicable.

It seems the tools we use most often are the ones that hurt us when we stop using them with respect. Work safer and smarter, not harder, everyone should go home at the end of the day. Download Acetylene MSDS (128 kb PDF)