Oxygen enrichment can increase the risk of fires and explosions if not handled properly. Oxygen is heavier than air and can cause materials not normally flammable in air to burn fiercely. Any oils, greases or other contaminants should never be used with oxygen equipment as they can spontaneously ignite. Proper equipment should be leak tested and free of damage or contaminants, and flashback arrestors should be used, to safely manage the risks of oxygen enrichment.

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Oxygen Enrichment
Oxygen is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas and makes up to 21% of the air we
breathe, it has a relative density of 1.1 which means it is slightly heavier than air.
Oils, greases, solvents and PTFE tape may react violently with oxygen. You should never use
oil or grease to lubricate oxygen or oxygen enriched equipment as they can spontaneously
burn with explosive violence.
Dangers of Oxygen Enrichment
If the atmosphere is enriched with oxygen the potential for fires is increased. Materials not
normally combustible in air, will burn fiercely in an oxygen enriched atmosphere. They can
also be ignited with minimum energy sources that would not, in air, be considered sufficient.
If clothing becomes contaminated with oxygen, then quickly ventilate it by walking in fresh
open air for at least 15 minutes, taking care to stay away from sources of ignition.
For example, overalls treated to be 'flame-retardant' can, in an oxygen enriched atmosphere,
burn vigorously.
Oxy-Gas Equipment
Never use regulators, hoses, cylinders or torches or any other oxy-fuel equipment
if Oil, grease or similar contaminants are present, or the equipment shows sign of
damage.
If using cylinders in an enclosed area leak test the high pressure connection between the
regulator and the cylinder valve using an approved leak test solution. Do not use soapy water
as soap contains oils
Never use lubricants, PTFE or other jointing compounds to obtain a seal.
Faulty equipment must not be used.
Flashback arrestors should be fitted to all fuel gas supply lines
and to oxygen supply lines when they are used in conjunction with fuel gases.
Remember
Oxygen is invisible...!
It is silent...!
It has no smell...!
& it helps to burn fiercely...!
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