It is sharing of knowledge. By Bimal Chandra Das, Rtd. AGM (Safety), Bokaro Steel Plant,/ Bokaro. Kolkata

1. Guidelines of Gas Cylinder Rules, 1981
Closed metal containers intended for storage and transport of compressed gas having a
volume exceeding 500 ml. (1/2 Litre) but not exceeding 1000 litres are covered under these
Rules. But containers exceeding 1000 Ltres are covered under SMPV Rules. This exclusive
compilation of 78 Rules, Five Schedules and Forms A to F are covered under ten chapters
dealing with important aspects e.g. construction, test & examination of cylinders, restrictions
on filling, possession, import or transportation of cylinders, valves and other fittings meeting
the requirements of standards, markings and color coding of cylinders, precautions in
handling and use, etc. Relevant rules from users point of view are mentioned below :-
Rule- 3
Requires that every cylinder and its valve and other fittings to be constructed, tested,
examined and certified as per the Standards given the Schedules to this Rule.
Rule –6&7
Specify the markings by stamping, engraving or similar process on the cylinder and valve
respectively. The rules provide the details including manufacturer’s identity and inspector’s
stamp to be so marked.
Rule - 8
Specifies color coding for industrial cylinders as per IS: 4379 and specifies in sub-rule (2)
such color marking for new gases and gas mixtures not given in the IS: 4379.
Rule - 13
Prohibits employment of children & intoxicated persons in loading / unloading and any
premises licensed under Gas Cylinders Rule.
Rule - 18 & 19
Deal with safe handling & use and storage of cylinders.
Rule - 20
Owner of every cylinder is required to keep for the life of the cylinder a record containing
prescribed information.
Rule - 39 to 42
Deal with Periodical Examination & Testing of cylinders and specifies that IS:5844 to be
followed.
Rule - 43
Specifies the conditions when a cylinder can be condemned.
Rule - 44
Requires to maintain a history sheet with record of tests, examination and repairs to be
maintained for each cylinder by testing station.
Note: These guidelines are only illustrative in nature; The book of Rules, kept in the office of
GM (S&FS) may be referred for details.
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