Incorrectly colour coded oxygen cylinders
- Safety Flash
- Published on 23 July 2008
- Generated on 19 April 2026
- IMCA SF 12/08
- 1 minute read
A Member has reported that it has received a small number of ‘W’ size oxygen cylinders which were incorrectly labelled as nitrogen (oxygen free).
Members are reminded of the guidance set out in Marking and colour coding of gas cylinders, quads and banks for diving applications (IMCA D043) – and particularly of section 7, ‘Gas sampling’:
“Sampling of all gases must be carried out prior to the commencement of, and during, diving operations.
“Gas cylinders and quads as received from the supplier should have a label attached and a purity certificate stating the composition of the gas they contain. However, it is stressed that analysis of gas as received from a supplier to a diving installation or site is the responsibility of a nominated and competent individual and that the ultimate authority for establishing the exact contents of any gas cylinder, bank or unit before use rests with the relevant supervisor.”
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.