What must be done with empty cylinders versus full cylinders?

In the context of fire service operations and safety, managing the storage and handling of gas cylinders is critical to ensuring safety and efficiency. Empty cylinders and full cylinders should not be stored together for several reasons.

Storing damaged cylinders separately is essential because they pose a safety risk due to potential leakage or structural failure. By marking damaged cylinders, personnel can quickly identify hazardous materials and avoid accidents during handling. Keeping them apart ensures that there's a dedicated protocol for dealing with potentially dangerous equipment without jeopardizing the integrity of full cylinders. This practice also aligns with safety standards that dictate how to handle hazardous materials effectively.

It's crucial to follow these safety protocols to prevent mishaps that could arise from confusing empty and full cylinders, especially during emergencies when quick access to functional equipment is vital.