What is the primary safety precaution when using gas cylinders?

The primary safety precaution when using gas cylinders involves checking for leaks and ensuring proper sealing and storage. This precaution is essential because gas leaks can pose serious hazards, including fire, explosion, and asphyxiation. By checking for leaks before usage, you mitigate the risk of potentially dangerous situations that could arise from the release of pressurized gases. Proper sealing ensures that the gas does not escape during storage or use, which is vital for both safety and maintaining the integrity of the gas supply. Additionally, proper storage minimizes the risk of physical damage to the cylinders, which could lead to leaks or ruptures.

While using gas cylinders in well-ventilated areas, keeping them away from flammable materials, and wearing gloves are all important safety measures, they are secondary to the fundamental requirement of ensuring that the cylinder is secure, leak-free, and correctly stored. The primary focus should always be on the integrity of the cylinder itself to prevent accidents and ensure safe handling.