What can happen if compressed gas tanks are not properly handled?

When compressed gas tanks are not handled properly, they pose significant safety risks, including the potential to explode or cause serious injury. Compressed gases are stored at high pressures, and improper handling can lead to situations such as falls, punctures, or exposure to extreme temperatures, all of which can result in catastrophic failures. If a tank is dropped or damaged, the high-pressure gas can escape rapidly, leading to an uncontrolled release that might create a projectile hazard or cause an explosion. Additionally, some gases are flammable or toxic, which further increases the risk of injury or devastation to those nearby.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the risks or realities associated with compressed gas tanks. For instance, while recycling might be a treatment option once the tank is empty and properly managed, it does not address the concerns related to improper handling. The idea that compression improves welding quality or reduces production time is also misleading and does not pertain to the handling of gas tanks, which is fundamentally about safety.