North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

According to OSHA safety standards, where must oxygen cylinders, hoses, fittings, and regulators be kept away from?

1. Sunlight

2. Flammable materials

3. Oil and grease

4. Electrical sources

The correct answer is: Oil and grease

Oxygen cylinders, hoses, fittings, and regulators must be kept away from oil and grease because these materials can create a highly explosive and flammable environment when in contact with oxygen. Oxygen supports combustion more vigorously than air. When oil or grease comes into contact with pressurized oxygen, it can ignite spontaneously, leading to potentially catastrophic fires or explosions. This safety measure is crucial in both construction and industrial settings where oxygen is used for various purposes, including welding and cutting. While it is also important to keep oxygen cylinders away from sunlight, flammable materials, and electrical sources for safety reasons, the greatest danger arises from the interaction between oxygen and oil or grease. Thus, ensuring these items are kept free from any type of hydrocarbon is the most critical safety practice in handling oxygen equipment.