Which protective measures must be in place for gas cylinder valves?

Protective measures for gas cylinder valves are essential for ensuring safety in various working environments. One of the critical safety practices is that cylinder valves must be protected by caps or collars. This measure serves multiple purposes: it prevents accidental damage to the valve from external impacts, which could result in a dangerous release of gas, and it ensures that contaminants do not enter the valve mechanism, which could affect its operation.

The protective caps or collars are designed to withstand handling and movement, especially in settings where multiple cylinders are in use. Ensuring that these caps or collars are always in place when the cylinders are not in use minimizes the risk of accidental discharge and enhances the overall safety of the handling and storage procedures for gas cylinders.

Other options do not provide adequate protection or have different implications for safety. Keeping cylinders wet could lead to other hazards, such as corrosion or the formation of ice on valves in certain conditions. A closed environment could restrict necessary ventilation and create a buildup of hazardous gases. Covering with cloth may not provide the robust, impact-resistant protection that caps or collars do and can also lead to an accumulation of debris. Thus, the use of caps or collars stands out as the most effective protective measure for gas cylinder valves.