Oxygen Safety & Precautions

Oxygen is a non-flammable, non-explosive gas. It does NOT burn; however it does support combustion. Any material that will burn in air will ignite more readily in an oxygen-enriched environment.

• DO NOT SMOKE, or, allow anyone to smoke around the person wearing the oxygen, within 10 feet of the oxygen equipment.
• DO NOT use oxygen within 10 feet of an open flame (candles, gas barbecue/stove, campfire, fireplace, pilot lights, incense burner, etc.). This includes: concentrators, cylinders, and tubing.
• DO NOT use aerosol sprays around oxygen.
• NEVER lubricate oxygen equipment. Also, the person wearing oxygen should not use petroleum-based products on their face or chest, these are oil-based products and are highly flammable, and could burn readily in the presence of oxygen. Water-based products are available and are recommended.
• Cylinders should be supported (so they do not fall over abruptly), at all times, as they are under high pressure. Store them either lying down on their side, in a cart, or in a padded carry bag.
• Keep oxygen cylinders/equipment secured when traveling in a vehicle.
• Post an Oxygen in Use sign at the entrance to your home, readily visible, when oxygen is in use (provided by IRS upon set up).
• When using an oxygen concentrator, do not store it in a tight, confined space. Concentrators need at least 6 inches, or more, all the way around as they are pulling the air from the room into the system through the side filters and need to vent and dissipate heat.
• Do NOT use extension cords with oxygen equipment.

Trained IRS Independent Respiratory Services personnel will educate you, and any others involved with the oxygen equipment, on safety and how to care for your equipment.