Except when in use, oxygen cylinders must be separated from fuel-gas cylinders or combustible materials (especially oil or grease), by a minimum distance of 20 feet (6.1 meters) or by a noncombustible barrier at least five feet (1.5 meters) high with a fire-resistance rating of at least one-half hour. Store cylinders upright and secure them with a chain, strap or cable to a stationary building support (e.g., structural beam). Regulators must be removed and valve protection caps in place and secured whenever cylinders are not in use.

Inside of buildings, cylinders must be stored in a well-protected, well-ventilated, dry location. Compressed gas cylinders are to be stored in assigned places away from elevators, stairs, or gangways. Assigned storage places shall be located where cylinders will not be knocked over or damaged by passing or falling objects, or subject to tampering by unauthorized persons. Cylinders shall not be kept in unventilated enclosures such as lockers or cupboards.