What is a critical safety measure for compressed gas containers during handling?

The focus on why compressed gas containers must not be rolled on their side is rooted in safety concerns related to their structural integrity and potential hazards. Containers, especially those holding flammable or toxic gases, are designed to remain upright. Rolling them can lead to damage of the container, which could result in leaks or ruptures.

Additionally, when a cylinder is on its side, it may become difficult to control its release during handling. This could create uncontrolled gas dispersion, increasing the risk of fire or exposure to harmful substances. Maintaining the upright position helps ensure that safety features, such as pressure relief valves, function properly and that the container remains stable.

In contrast, while tightly sealing containers and preventing exposure to heat are important for safety, and standing containers upright is also critical, handling protocols specifically emphasize the upright position to prevent dangerous and potentially catastrophic incidents. Storage upside down is also unsuitable as it creates a risk of damage and improper gas flow when accessing the cylinder.