from fill lines. With the proper fittings, steam can be pushed through a single open fill whip. After cleaning, ensure the lines are thoroughly dried using high-pressure nitrogen or clean, oxygen-compatible compressed air. However, steam alone may not remove all hydrocarbons. For components such as valves, regulators, or fill whips that have been exposed to oil or silicone contamination, using oxygen-compatible degreasers is the most reliable method for restoring cleanliness. Why Crystal Simple Green? Regular Simple Green con- tains green dye and fragrance additives that can leave residue if not thoroughly rinsed, which may appear under UV in- spection as contamination. These additives are not oxygen- compatible and, as noted in the NAVSEA report “Aqueous Oxygen Cleaning Products and Processes” (Antin, 1994), such residues can become ignition promoters in high-pres- TRAINING continued
sure oxygen environments, making the product unsuitable for oxygen-service cleaning. Best Practice: Disassemble the component before cleaning. ▪ Use the cleaner per manufacturer instructions (often di- ▪ luted in warm water). Rinse thoroughly with deionized or distilled water. ▪ Dry with filtered, oxygen-compatible compressed air or ▪ nitrogen. Handle with clean, powder-free gloves to avoid recontam- ination. Cylinders and valves should receive annual oxygen- service cleaning, ideally during slower business periods. When done properly, this preventive maintenance ensures your gas system remains clean, safe, and compliant – saving you far more than it costs in time and effort.
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Verifying Oxygen Cleanliness (NOAA & NFPA Guidelines) According to the NOAA Diving Manual and NFPA 53, a component is only considered “oxygen clean” once contaminants are removed and cleanliness is verified. Visual appearance alone is not sufficient. Verification Methods: White Light Inspection – Use a bright white inspection light to check for visible residue, discoloration, or particles. 1. Ultraviolet (UV) Light Inspection – Hydrocarbon residues fluoresce under UV light; any visible glow indicates contamination. 2. pH Testing – Rinse water can be tested with pH paper to ensure all cleaning agents are fully removed (pH should be neutral, ~7). 2. Particle Test (“White Glove” Method) – Wipe internal surfaces with a clean, lint-free swab; inspect for any visible dirt or discol- oration. 4. Dryness Check – Confirm the component is completely dry using oxygen-compatible compressed air or nitrogen to prevent cor- rosion or microbial growth. Pro Tip: Document the cleaning date, verification steps performed, and the technician’s name. Keep records on file for each cylinder, valve, or component. This is not only good practice – it can protect your operation in the event of an incident investiga- tion. The Danger of “It Looks Clean” Thinking: Visual inspection is not enough. Just because a valve or hose appears clean doesn’t mean it’s oxygen compatible. Dive shops must adopt standardized cleaning protocols. Over 40% oxygen requires not just chemical compatibility of materials, but documented cleanliness and a system free of ignition points – especially for partial pressure blend- ing. Staff Training: More Than Just Checklists: Proper training is crucial for anyone operating a blending station or servicing oxygen systems. This training should include both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice, preferably through an apprenticeship with an experienced technician. Staff must grasp key concepts like adiabatic compression, blending math, and safe oxygen handling under high pressure. Facilities should offer ongoing education and regular reviews of standard operating procedures (SOPs). Cross-training staff helps fill gaps during technician absences. Annual refresher sessions and internal audits can reinforce compliance and safety, especially during busy periods. Once a system or piece of equipment is compromised, signs of failure may not appear until it’s too late. Comprehensive training enables staff to identify minor deviations before they lead to serious errors. Final Words – Respect the Gas: Nitrox, Oxygen, and Trimix have become staples of modern diving – and a significant revenue stream for dive centers and resorts. But that convenience cannot come at the cost of safety. Whether you're running a partial pressure blending station or a membrane-fed compressor, your system must be clean, your process must be deliberate, and your staff must be trained. Oxygen is unforgiving. Handle it correctly, and it will support your business and your divers. Handle it wrong, and it can destroy both. Dive professionals owe it to their clients, staff, and themselves to get it right every time.
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