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Oxygen

The main dangers associated with the use of oxygen are fire and explosion.

Oxygen behaves differently to air, compressed air, nitrogen and other inert gases. It is very reactive. Pure oxygen, at high pressure, such as from a cylinder, can react violently with common materials such as oil and grease. Other materials may catch fire spontaneously. Nearly all materials including textiles, rubber and even metals will burn vigorously in oxygen.

Guidance Documents

Take care with oxygen, fire and explosion hazards in the use of oxygen

HSE8 (rev2) 1999