Oxygen Transportation Procedure

PURPOSE

Support workers may need to transport oxygen cylinders as part of their duties. This procedure provides clear guidance on how to safely handle, secure and transport oxygen cylinders along with compliance requirements as a category of Dangerous Goods. A key focus of this procedure is to ensure transportation protects participants and their support workers from fire and other hazards.

SCOPE

This procedure applies to all DCIRS Community Care employees, contractors and volunteers supporting participants who rely on oxygen therapy as part of their health care plan.

DEFINITIONS

POC = portable oxygen cylinder

PROCEDURE

Always follow the participant's health care plan and safety guidelines from the oxygen supplier. This summary is for guidance and does not replace statutory obligations or clinical advice.

1.Safety Requirements for Transporting Oxygen

1.1 Cylinder Securing & Positioning

• Secure cylinders against movement, preventing them from becoming projectiles in an accident.

• Transport in an upright position where possible. If horizontal, position lengthwise with valves facing rearward and ensure they are firmly secured.

• Store in a cool, well-ventilated part of the vehicle and protect cylinders from damage.

1.2 Ventilation & Fire Safety

• Maintain high ventilation in the vehicle (e.g., open windows) to avoid oxygen enrichment.

• No smoking or vaping in or near the vehicle.

• Keep oxygen equipment at least 3 metres away from heat/ignition sources (heaters, radiators, naked flames).

• Do not cover cylinders with fabric or plastic.

1.3 Equipment Handling

• Turn cylinder valves off when not in use.

• Detach regulators and other accessories from cylinders during transport.

• Never use oxygen while the vehicle is being refuelled.

• Handle carefully to avoid drops, knocks, or valve damage.

2.Planning, Risk Management & Documentation 

2.1 Risk Assessments

• Conduct a risk assessment that considers transportation needs of both participant and oxygen equipment.

• Consider vehicle suitability and seek engineering advice if specialised modifications or special securement systems are required. (Workers should consult with their manager.)

2.2 Trip Preparation

• Check oxygen levels in portable tanks/POCs before departure and ensure sufficient supply for the outing.

• Arrange replacement cylinders in advance, particularly before weekends and public holidays.

• Inform the vehicle's insurer if medical oxygen is regularly carried. (Support workers should inform their insurer if using their personal vehicle for oxygen transportation.)

2.3 Recording & Compliance

• Document oxygen therapy support in daily shift notes as per the oxygen provider's policy.

• Follow oxygen supplier guidance in conjunction with the participant's health care plan.

2.4 Emergency Preparedness

• Ensure the ability to alert emergency services when oxygen is routinely transported (e.g., emergency contacts and phone access are readily available).

3.Planning, Risk Management & Documentation 

• Support workers who transport oxygen must first complete the oxygen transportation module in the LMS. They must be assessed as competent in oxygen therapy support, equipment checks, and safe transport before transporting oxygen. They should be able to change cylinders safely and apply provider safety procedures competently.

• Securement devices used solely to hold oxygen cylinders for safety are therapeutic supports, not restrictive practices.

4.Funding and Equipment Provision

• Oxygen supply and equipment are generally provided via state/territory health oxygen schemes. For Victoria, the State-wide Equipment Program provides these services. https://swep.bhs.org.au/domiciliary-oxygen-program-dop.php

5.Air Travel Requirements

• Contact the airline in advance to advise of in-flight oxygen needs and obtain approval.

• Provide required documentation, typically a doctor's letter confirming the participant's fitness to fly and any airline travel clearance form.

• Us only airline-approved POC's during flight.

6.Jurisdiction-Specific Information

• When transporting in Victoria, comply with WorkSafe Victoria's 'Dangerous Goods as Tools of Trade' requirements: cylinders must be secured, ventilated, protected from damage, and separated from ignition sources. https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/transporting-dangerous-goods-tools-trade

• Ensure containers meet Australian Standard AS/NZS 3711 or applicable ISO standards.

7.Responsibilities of Managers and Supervisors

Managers and Supervisors are responsible for support worker training, monitoring and assessing oxygen transportation processes to ensure safety, and to provide workers with relevant resources and information on current practices.

They must ensure that:

• Risks associated with the transportation of oxygen are identified, assessed and documented, including consideration of environmental, transport, and equipment-related hazards.

• Relevant emergency plan and evacuation procedures appropriately address oxygen-related risks, including safe evacuation, equipment management, and continuity of oxygen support during an emergency.

Should a breach of oxygen transportation practices occur, the responsible manager or supervisor will provide or facilitate the appropriate corrective action. The safety of workers and participants (and those travelling with them) is paramount.

Managers and Supervisors must also notify DCIRS's insurer where company vehicles are used to transport oxygen.

8.Emergency Contact Information

For immediate danger, call 000 first. Notify DCIRS management after emergency services have been contacted. For an emergency that occurs during business hours, contact the office and staff member will transfer you to a senior member of staff. Outside of hours, you must contact the on-call number (mobile). The on-call person will connect you with the relevant party. Please ensure you have sought emergency services before you contact the office for all emergencies.

ASSOCIATED DOCUMENTS

• First Aid Management Policy

• Risk Management Policy

• Workplace Health and Safety Policy

• Incident Report Form

• Incident and Risk Reporting Policy

• Support and Risk Plan

VERSION AND REVIEW INFORMATION

DCIRS reserves the right to amend and vary this procedure from time to time.

Version 1.0: 9 June 2026 | Review Date: 9 June 2028