NATIONAL OIL CORPORATION

GENERAL ENGINEERING SPECIFICATION

GES H.12

HP CYLINDERS STORAGE AND HANDLING

Rev Date Description Checked Approved

0 1999 Issued for Implementation DL

Compiled by Teknica (UK) Ltd

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INDEX

SEC TITLE PAGE

1.0 SCOPE OF SPECIFICATION 4

1.1 Introduction 4
1.2 Other NOC Specifications 4

2.0 DEFINITIONS 4

2.1 Technical 4
2.2 Contractual 5

3.0 DESIGN 5

3.1 Codes and Standards 5

4.0 HP CYLINDERS 6

4.1 Cylinder Valves and Security Caps 6

4.2 Cylinder Valve Outlet Threads 7
4.3 Cylinder Labelling 7

5.0 CYLINDER HANDLING 7

5.1 Identification 7
5.2 Carriage 7
5.3 Additional Recommendations 9

6.0 STORAGE 9

6.1 Location 9
6.2 Security 9
6.3 Topic and Corrosive Gases 9

7.0 CONSTRUCTION 10

7.1 Cylinders 10
7.2 Piping 10

8.0 INSTRUMENTATION 10

8.1 Control Systems 10

8.2 Hardware 10

9.0 SAFETY SYSTEMS 11

9.1 Safety Equipment 11

9.2 Safety Procedures 11
9.3 Leak Detection 11
9.4 Fire 12

INDEX
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SEC TITLE PAGE

10.0 PRIOR TO SHIPMENT 13

10.1 Painting and Coatings 13

10.2 Spares 13
10.3 Packing and Storage 13
10.4 Shipping 13
10.5 Warranty 13
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1.0 SCOPE OF SPECIFICATION

1.1 Introduction

1.1.1 The scope of this specification provides users with the minimum requirements for guidance on safety and
operational requirements for HP cylinder storage and handling.

1.1.2 Personnel responsible for, or working in areas where HP cylinders are stored and handled shall be trained
to implement the applicable Codes, Standards and emergency actions required for the safe control of the
cylinders, as applicable to the specific installation and the fluid contents handled.

1.2 Other NOC Specifications

The following NOC General Engineering Specifications are an integral part of this specification and any
exceptions shall be approved by the Owner.

GES U.16 LPG Storage and Handling

GES X.01 Surface Preparation and Painting Application

GES X.02 Colour Coding of Equipment and Piping

GES X.03 External Protective Coatings

2.0 DEFINITIONS

2.1 Technical

The technical terms used in this specification are defined as follows:

Cylinder

A portable, compressed gas container, fabricated to authorised standards or to the "Rules for the
Construction of Unfired Pressure Vessels", Section VIII, ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.

Handling

Moving, connecting or disconnecting a compressed or Liquefied gas cylinder.

LPG

Liquefied Gas Petroleum

Storage

An inventory of compressed or liquefied gases in containers that are not in the process of being examined,
serviced, refilled, loaded or unloaded.

Valve Outlet Caps and Plugs

Removable caps and plugs that form a gas-tight seal on valve outlets for specific gases and, in some cases,
provide valve nozzle and thread protection.

Valve Protection Device

A device attached to the neck ring or body of the cylinder for the purpose of protecting the cylinder valve
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from being struck or damaged from impact from a fall or an object striking the cylinder.

Valve Protection Cap

A rigid, removable cover provided for compressed gas container valve protection.

2.2 Contractual

The commercial terms used in this specification are defined as follows:

Owner

The oil and gas company, an associate or subsidiary, who is the end user of the equipment and facilities.

Vendor

The company supplying the equipment and material.

Contractor

The main contractor for a defined piece of work.

Sub-Contractor

A company awarded a contract by a Contractor to do part of the work awarded to the Contractor.

Inspection Authority

The organisation representing the Owner or Vendor/Contractor that verifies that the equipment and
facilities have been designed, constructed, inspected and tested in accordance with the requirements of this
specification and the Purchase Order/Contract.

Inspector

A qualified individual representing the Owner, Vendor/Contractor or the assigned Inspection Authority,
who verifies that the equipment and facilities have been designed, constructed, inspected and tested in
accordance with the requirements of this specification and the Purchase Order/Contract.

3.0 DESIGN

3.1 Codes and Standards

3.1.1 The designs and requirements shall comply with this specification and the following Codes and Standards:

BS 341 Part 1 Transportable Gas Container Valves - Specification for Industrial Valves for
Working Pressures up to and including 300 BAR

BS EN 1089 Pt. 3Transportable Gas Cylinders - Cylinder Identification - Colour Coding

BS EN 1440 Transportable, Refillable Welded Steel Gas Cylinders for LPG - Procedure for
checking before, during and after filling

BS EN 1442 Transportable, Refillable Welded Steel Cylinders for Liquefied Petroleum Gas
(LPG) - Design and Construction
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BS EN 1762 Rubber Hoses and Hose Assemblies for Liquefied Petroleum Gas, LPG (Liquid
or Gaseous Phase) and Natural Gas up to 25 bar (2,5 MPA) - Specification

BS 5306 Fire Extinguishing Installations and Equipment on Premises - Guide for the Selection of
Installed Systems and Other Fire Equipment

BS 5430 Parts 1, 2, 3 Periodic Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Transportable Gas Containers

ASME VIII Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code - Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels

British Compressed Gases Association Publications

CP3: The Safe Disposal of Gas Containers

CP8: The Safe Storage of Gaseous Hydrogen in Seamless Cylinders and Similar
Containers

CP12: The Safe Use of Non-refillable Gas Containers (Cylinders)

CP15: The Safe Re-rating of Existing BS 5045 Part 1: 1982 Containers to Amendment
and 5145

National Fire Protection Association

NFPA 30 Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code

NFPA 55 Storage, Use and Handling of Compressed and Liquefied Gases in Portable
Cylinders

NFPA 58 LP-Gas Code

NFPA 59 Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases at Utility Gas Plants

Health & Safety A Guide to the Road Traffic (Carriage of Dangerous Substances in Packages
etc) Executive Regulations

4.0 HP CYLINDERS

4.1 Cylinder Valves and Security Caps

The user shall ensure that all cylinders containing gas at high pressure are fitted with a cylinder valve
which shall not be removed or tampered with at any time, except to tighten the gland nut when necessary.

The cylinder valves on all gas cylinders, whether they contain combustible or non-combustible gas, shall be
opened by turning the spindle anti-clockwise and closed by turning the spindle clockwise.

Some cylinders may have a security cap over the cylinder valve indicating that they have been filled and
checked. This cap is removed by rotating the hexagon nut in either direction using the regulator spanner,
this will cause the cap to split for easy removal. Each valve outlet is specially threaded to receive standard
pressure regulators. These shall be screwed in by hand and then tightened using the regulator spanner. To
open the cylinder valve, rotate the spindle anti-clockwise using the special spindle key.

Some cylinders are fitted with handwheels obviating the need to use a spindle key. Such cylinders and
some others fitted with valves are normally fitted with valve guards or valve protection caps. Valve guards
shall not be removed. Valve protection caps shall always be replaced after use. Always return cylinders
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with the valve in the closed position, when emptied or after use.

4.2 Cylinder Valve Outlet Threads

To prevent the interchange of fittings between cylinders containing combustible gases and non-combustible
gases, the cylinder valve outlets are threaded to opposite hands. Non-combustible gases, oxygen, nitrogen,
argon and air, shall generally have conventional right-hand threads. Combustible gases including
acetylene, hydrogen, propane and mixtures containing fuel gas shall have left-hand threads, except that
right hand threaded valves are permitted in certain special cases as follows:

(a) acetylene for specialised purposes other than welding and cutting;

(b) propane cylinders used to power fork lift trucks.

The above precautions mean that oxygen and fuel gas pressure regulators are not interchangeable. Spindle
keys, however, are interchangeable.

4.3 Cylinder Labelling

All cylinders shall be labelled in accordance with the Classification, Packaging and Labelling of Dangerous
Substances Regulations.

The cylinder label shall identify the gas contents of the cylinder and provide basic safety information.

5.0 CYLINDER HANDLING

5.1 Identification

The supply of any cylinder shall not be accepted if its contents cannot be positively identified. Great care
must be taken to label cylinders clearly. When taking delivery or collecting cylinders, check the label
against the requirements of BS 349 or agreed procedures.

5.2 Carriage

5.2.1 On the Road

Gas cylinders may be carried safely on road vehicles provided the required precautions are taken. The
Health & Safety Executive Road Traffic (Carriage of Dangerous Substances in Packages, etc) Regulations
or the locally approved equal national standard shall apply to the movement by road of flammable and toxic
gases. In practice, the same principles shall be applied whatever gases are being carried and shall ensure
that:
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- the fluids within the cylinders can easily be identified as being flammable, toxic or corrosive;

- the driver carries the information card and the appropriate gas data and safety sheets;

- the cylinders are properly loaded and secured so that they cannot move about and do not project
beyond the sides or end of the vehicle;

- all individual cylinders are carried and secured upright;

- the cylinders are labelled properly;

- there are no gas leaks;

- where possible use an open vehicle, (if a closed van or car has to be used make sure it is properly
ventilated at all times. At least have a window open and ensure cylinders are leak-checked
thoroughly just before loading them);

- toxic gas cylinders (painted yellow or having yellow markings) are not transported in a closed
vehicle, unless in a ventilated compartment separate from the driver;

- no flammable materials are carried when transporting or handling cylinders;

- all attached equipment is removed from cylinders;

- caps and plugs are fitted and in place;

- all cylinders are unloaded as soon as possible;

- cylinders are not placed in a closed vehicle;

- if a leak is suspected whilst in transit, stop, park in a safe place, check, and if necessary, phone for
assistance, (phone the fire brigade in an emergency and advise them of the number of cylinders
and their contents);

- should a road accident occur whilst carrying cylinders and the emergency services are called,
inform them of the gas cylinder type and contents, (show the appropriate gas data and safety
sheets);

- any local or accepted regulations are implemented and adhered to, particularly for hazardous
substances including liquid/gaseous petroleum products, chlorine, acetylene, hydrogen, ammonia
or toxic chemicals;

- fire-fighting equipment is available in the vehicle and that personnel are familiar with its use.

5.2.2 In the Works

Movement of cylinders within the works boundaries shall be carried out with the same care as when
moving them on the general highway. Cylinders shall be properly secured when being moved and, if
transported
in a van, precautions must be taken to avoid build-up of gas which might affect the driver. Cylinders shall
not be transported, in the works, with equipment fitted.
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5.2.3 Lifting Cylinders

There are a wide range of methods for lifting cylinders. The critical requirement is that the cylinder shall be
secured during the lift. Never lift a cylinder with magnets or chains or slings. Be aware of the hazards of
manually handling large cylinders, particularly of cylinders sliding away when lifting from the horizontal to
the vertical or vice versa. Do not attempt to catch a toppling cylinder - get out of the way.

5.3 Additional Recommendations

5.3.1 Rolling cylinders along the ground damages the identification of the cylinder and may also cause the valve
to be damaged or opened. 'Milk churning' cylinders on their bases is permissable but it is not recommended
for transporting over long distances or over uneven ground. A cylinder trolley shall be used in preference
for moving cylinders.

When using a cylinder trolley make sure cylinders are properly located and secured and the cylinder valves
are shut. Never transport cylinders with the pressure regulator and hose attached, unless on a purpose
designed trolley or carrier. Strict attention to securing cylinders without any attachments, ensuring that the
pressure regulator is removed, is essential for safe transportation.

6.0 STORAGE

6.1 Location

Small holdings of cylinders may be stored in a variety of locations, provided that the principles given in the
following paragraphs are followed. Larger quantities of cylinders shall be kept in a purpose designed store
or storage area, following the same principles.

Full or empty compressed gas cylinders shall be stored in a well ventilated area - preferably in the open,
and with some weather protection. Cylinders shall be stored securely on a well drained surface to prevent
corrosion. Store cylinders in a location free from fire risk and away from sources of heat and ignition.

6.2 Security

6.2.1 All cylinders shall be stored upright, taking steps to see that they are secured to prevent them falling. Free
standing cylinders are a hazard to users and passers-by. Acetylene and propane cylinders shall never be
stacked horizontally in storage or in use. Vertical cylinders shall always be secured. When standing
cylinders, be aware of the hazards of uneven sloping, slippery and vibrating surfaces as well as loose
debris. Whenever possible use a cylinder trolley for transporting large cylinders.

6.3 Toxic and Corrosive Gases

6.3.1 Toxic and corrosive gases should be stored separately away from all other gases.

It is essential that when handling or storing cylinders containing toxic or corrosive gases that the plug or
cap nut is always replaced in the valve outlet when the cylinder is not in use or connected to an operational
system.
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7.0 CONSTRUCTION

7.1 Cylinders

Gas cylinders shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the Codes and Standards listed in
Section 1.2, either to British Standards or American Standards. These standards defined the material of
which the cylinder is made, the method of construction, its test pressure, the maximum permissable filled
pressure and the method of regular testing.

7.2 Piping

Depending on the user's preference, pipework may be exposed and run at high or low level, or run under
suspended wooden floors or through the roof space.

Pipework may be run in specially prepared ducts in solid floor or buried in the floor screed, and shall not be
cemented in. All pipe and fittings shall be protected against internal and external corrosion as applicable.

Pipework may also be run externally, clipped to the wall at high or low level and brought into the building
close to the point of use. This may be particularly convenient where two or more appliances are installed at
points remote from one another, since it minimises disturbance and damage to internal finishes. Where
pipework passes through walls, particularly cavity wall, it must be enclosed in a sleeve without joints.
Pipework must pass straight through and may not run within the cavity, parallel to the walls.

The service pipe and sleeve shall be constructed and installed to prevent gas passing along the space
between the pipe and the sleeve, and between the sleeve and the wall or floor so as to allow normal
movement of the pipe, e.g. a flexible seal between the pipe and the sleeve at each end. Whatever route is
chosen, pipes must be properly clipped and supported clear of the wall.

8.0 INSTRUMENTATION

8.1 Control Systems

Before fitting a pressure regulator on to a full cylinder ensure that the pressure adjusting screw is screwed
out so that there can be no flow through the regulator when the cylinder valve is opened.

Left-hand threaded pressure regulators should not be interchanged between gases, also left-hand to right
adaptors should not be used.

To prevent flames travelling back into cylinder, flashback arrestors shall be fitted downstream of pressure
regulators in oxygen, acetylene, propane and hydrogen systems. Where cylinders are connected to a
manifold or header, the system shall be fitted with one or more pressure regulators.

8.2 Hardware

The pressure regulators used shall be designed for use with high pressure gas cylinders, also it shall be
ensured that the threads are the same as on the valve outlet.

For prevention of back flow, a non-return or check valve shall be fitted. A more reliable alternative is the
fitting of an automatic shut-off/isolation valve. The shut-off action is activated by a low pressure signal
when the supply gas cylinder pressure reaches a level that requires the cylinder to be replaced.
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9.0 SAFETY SYSTEMS

9.1 Safety Equipment

When a pressure regulator is fitted with pressure gauges, these shall not be removed, exchanged or
tampered with in any way. If a gauge leaks, the entire pressure regulator shall be returned to the
Vendor/Contractor.

The best quality hose, such as those required by supplier specification shall be used at all times.

Rubber hoses and hose assemblies for LPG cylinders of pressure up to 360 psig (2500 kPag) shall be in
accordance with BS 1762, or approved equal.

Flashback arrestors shall be used. This device is designed to quench the flashback and when it incorporates
a cut-off valve will automatically shut-off the gas flow.

9.2 Safety Procedures

The following safety procedures shall be followed, as applicable:

a) excessive heat on cylinders shall be eliminated by sun shade or other design dependant on
location;

b) electrical welding shall not be allowed to touch or get near to cylinders, (an accidental arc
between the tool and cylinder could overheat the cylinder wall);

c) cylinder valves should be kept clean, free from grit, dirt, oil or dirty water, if not leakage may
occur;

d) cracking open and immediately closing of a hydrogen cylinder valve to remove dirt or residual
moisture, should never be carried out as the hydrogen may ignite spontaneously;

e) cylinders shall be kept free from oil and grease at all times, likewise jointing compounds shall not
be applied;

f) with valve operation, use care, not force, (valves shall be opened slowly using the correct spindle
key, not subject to excessive torque). An opened valve shall never be left against the backdrop,
but shall be turned back at least half a turn to avoid seizure in an open position;

g) regular checks for faults and leaks shall be carried out, with special attention to pressure
regulators, (cylinders shall be checked for leaks both when they are in store and when they are
assembled with equipment for use. Special attention shall be paid to all joints and blowpipe
valves. Those assemblies which show any sign of deterioration shall be discarded);

h) frozen regulators or valves, caused by excessive flow rates shall be thawed with hot water, never
by flame.

9.3 Leak Detection

Cylinders shall be inspected regularly for leakage.

Never attempt to find a leak by means of a naked flame.

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Leakage can be detected in any of the following ways given below:

(a) by means of smell (do not inhale);

(b) by sound of escaping gas;

(c) by condensation or frosting round the leak;

(d) leaks may be confirmed by brushing soapy water over the suspected leak source.

If a gas leak is suspected:

(a) do shut all valves on tank or cylinders and impacted control valves and facilities outside the
building;

(b) do open all doors and windows;

(c) do ventilate at floor level and low level areas and cellars (LPG is heavier than air);

(d) do not operate electrical switches - on or off;

(e) do not smoke or use naked flames and make sure that there are no other sources of ignition in the
immediate area.

9.4 Fire

The following actions shall be taken as appropriate in the event of a fire being discovered:

(a) follow company fire/safety procedures;

(b) evacuate the area to a safe location in accordance with company safety procedures;

(c) call the fire brigade;

(d) advise persons in the working area of the cylinder to relocate to a safe location in accordance with
company safety procedures;

(e) only trained personnel should attempt to fight the fire with the correct extinguishing agent;

(f) when the fire brigade arrives inform them of the location and number of gas cylinders directly
involved in the fire, and the names of the gases they contain;

(g) cylinders which are not directly involved in the fire and which have not become heated should be
moved as quickly as possible to a safe location, provided this can be done without any risk to
personnel.

Any cylinders which have been exposed to excessive heat, should be clearly marked.
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10.0 PRIOR TO SHIPMENT

10.1 Painting and Coatings

Surface preparation, painting and painting materials shall be in accordance with GES X.01, GES X.02,
GES X.03.

10.2 Spares

The Vendor/Contractor shall submit with his proposal a priced list of recommended spares for start-up and
two years operation for review by Owner.

10.3 Packing and Storage

This section describes the minimum requirement for the preservation and protection of the equipment
during sea and land transportation and storage, prior to installation.

The probable storage period will be specified in the order/enquiry and will extend from the time of
despatch to the time of unpacking at site. If the storage period is not stated, a minimum period of 24
months shall be assumed. Packing to be suitable for sea freight.

(a) After mechanical completion at the works, the equipment shall be left in a clean dry condition.

(b) The Vendor/Contractor shall be responsible for loading and anchoring the item(s) to prevent
damage during shipment.

(c) Machined or threaded exterior surfaces shall be protected during shipment and subsequent storage
with a rust preventer which is easily removed with a petroleum solvent.

(d) Threaded end connections shall be fitted with metal, wood or plastic plugs or caps.

(e) Flanges shall be protected over the entire flange surface by protectors which are securely attached
to the flange.

10.4 Shipping

Detailed shipping arrangements are covered by the Purchase Order/Contract.

The equipment shall not leave the Vendor/Contractor's works for shipment until the release has been
approved by the Owner's Inspector.

10.5 Warranty

The Vendor/Contractor shall warrant all materials and services supplied against any defect for a minimum
of twelve (12) months after commissioning or twenty-four (24) months from the date of delivery to site,
whichever is the shorter period, or for the period stipulated in the Purchase Order/Contract.

Should any item be found defective, the Vendor/Contractor shall be responsible for all costs associated
with restoring the equipment to the standard specified by the Purchase Order/Contract.