Oxygen Service Cleanliness and Enrichment Prevention
An Oily Glove Can Turn Oxygen Work into a Fire
The glove that handled a greasy fitting should not be used to assemble oxygen equipment. Oil and grease can react violently with high-pressure oxygen. A leak also makes surrounding materials easier to ignite and burn fiercely; oxygen is not a substitute for compressed air.
Controls to confirm
- Keep the connection clean: use clean hands or gloves and equipment free from oil, grease and dirt. Do not lubricate oxygen fittings or improvise seals; use only manufacturer-approved oxygen-service parts and materials.
- Prevent enrichment: inspect hoses and connections, use an oxygen-approved leak-test product and maintain ventilation. Close cylinder valves or isolate supplies when work stops. Never use oxygen to clean clothing, run air tools or refresh a space.
- Respond safely to a leak: stop work, warn others and isolate the supply only if safe. Keep ignition sources away and follow the emergency procedure. Have competent personnel repair the fault and confirm safe conditions before restarting.
Today’s action
Check one oxygen setup with its authorised user. Confirm cleanliness, approved components, hose condition and the isolation point before use.
Source guidance
Authoritative guidance checked 5 November 2026. Apply the legal requirements and approved procedures for your location.
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