A new standard has been released AS5034 which outlines the requirements for the managing your Cellars correctly.. We recommend all owners in this industry take notice and action in fulfilling the steps outlined in this document.

It specifically targets the Hospitality Industry – Hotels and Clubs

MINC Risk Services can help owners conduct Inspections of their cellar to ensure compliance with this legislation and maintenance of a Duty of Care to all staff, suppliers and the general public.

Our auditors checklists will ensure MINC Risk Services capture the key areas of owner responsibility and that all deviations from the legislation is highlighted in the auditors report. This report shall contain 3 sections;

• General summary and recommendations
• Comments on storage, signage & maintenance procedures and records
• Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (supported by pictures)

BOC Gases have produced a short video clip which outlines the dangers of Carbon Dioxide gas and the requirements of this new Australian Standard. To view click on this link.

AS4332 The Storage and Handling of Gases in Cylinders covers the requirements for management of this plant.

As always our auditors checklists will ensure MINC Risk Services capture the key areas of owner responsibility and that all deviations from the legislation is highlighted in the auditors report. This report shall contain 3 sections;

• General summary and recommendations
• on storage, signage & maintenance procedures and records
• Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (supported by pictures)

The following is an extract from the Australian National University on the handling of Gas Cylinders:

Handling a gas cylinder correctly over short distances eg. moving a cylinder on or off a trolley or into a gas cage or manifold

• Note: large gas cylinders (like the ‘G’ size) are heavy. If you are not comfortable controlling this weight, ask for assistance. Lifting a gas cylinder should not be attempted.
• Gas cylinders must always be moved without a regulator or gas fixture.
• Always wear good footwear, like safety boots, to prevent foot injuries.
• Always wear leather gloves, like riggers gloves – this will give you better grip, prevent cuts to the hand, or discomfort due to hot or cold cylinders.
• Ensure you have space to move the cylinder safely, being able to control its movement without sustaining awkward postures or risk tripping/falling over.
• Firmly grip the cylinder neck (the space between the cylinder body and the valve, not the valve handle) with your thumb and fingers in a ‘C’ fashion. This is your support hand.
• Position your feet shoulder width apart and with one foot behind the other, for greater stability.
• Tilt the cylinder slightly (2-5°) towards you. Keep your support hand close to your body while moving the cylinder
• With your free hand, rotate the gas cylinder. It should move easily in the direction you want it to go
• Position the cylinder in its desired location
• Return the cylinder to an upright position, maintaining a firm grip on the cylinder to prevent it toppling over
• Ensure the gas cylinder is securely restrained

MINC Risk Services look forward to helping answer your questions and developing your business to the new highs in the area of Health & Safety.