Why should a cylinder be regarded as dangerous regardless of its contents?

A cylinder should be regarded as dangerous primarily because the contents are pressurized. Pressurized cylinders can pose significant risks, such as explosive rupture or sudden release of contents if the cylinder is damaged or improperly handled. This pressurization creates a potential hazard regardless of whether the substance is a gas, liquid, or solid.

For example, if a pressurized gas cylinder were to be struck or fall, it could become a projectile, leading to serious injuries or damage. Additionally, the sudden release of pressurized gases can create an immediate hazardous situation, potentially leading to asphyxiation, flammability issues, or other chemical hazards.

While it is true that a cylinder may leak or contain toxic gases, these specific risks are contingent upon the contents of the cylinder. Pressurization, however, is a fundamental characteristic of many cylinders and introduces inherent dangers that necessitate treating all cylinders with caution.