In Exhibit A rust is obvious on and around the far-left cylinder. If you look closely, you’ll see that the valve itself is heavily rusted. If you see this, cite it in the report.
Exhibit B is a cylinder in use. You can see the valve, regulator and hose. The sole purpose of the valve is to open and close the cylinder. It is the regulator that ‘regulates’ the pressure from the cylinder to the output hose. If you see hoses without regulators connected to a cylinder, note the cylinder’s contents and take a picture of it for the specialist to evaluate. With few exceptions all cylinders need regulators.
Note that in Exhibit B image the cylinder, regulator and hose all appear to be in good condition. Look for corrosion and other damage to the valve and regulator. On hoses, look for cracking, checking, and hardening. If any are found, cite this in the inspection.
Note also that regulators are made for specific uses. For example, oxygen cylinders use a regulator specific to that gas. The table provided shows the Compressed Gas Association CGA Regulator Numbers assigned to some common gases. Exhibit C shows the CGA number stamped on a regulator. The number, CGA 870 is visible between the gauge and the cylinder. As an additional aid to those who use compressed gases, manufacturers have threaded cylinders uniquely by type. Thus, only the correct regulator will thread onto the cylinder. Exhibit B shows the set up is supposed to look. The regulator is attached directly to the cylinder. If you see what appears to be lab-made connections, check the regulator number against the cylinder contents and cite it if they are not correctly matched. Exhibit C & D show a regulator with a Compressed Gas Associaton (CGA) number.
Also try to evaluate the conditions of use. High pressure systems need to use metal tubing with compression or flare fittings while for low pressure systems, tygon tubing is acceptable. If you have any concerns, note the cylinder’s contents, the purpose for the system and take pictures for evaluation by a Specialist.