Where do you think I stand?

We rent some space from Landlord A, they sublet this from the owner I’ll call Landlord B.

We have to use a outside gas cylinder store owned by Landlord B, which is much too small for the number of cylinders Landlord A & B’s tenants store there.

These are large gas cylinders measuring 146 x 23 cm weighing 82kg containing CO2 and Nitrogen, nothing else.

We have to move several empty cylinders out and stand them, unsupported (there’s no where to support them) on the rough surface to reach the full, secured cylinders.  The full cylinder is put into the trolley and the empty’s are put back into the cage. (phew).

Landlord B refuses to allow us or Landlord A to use the much larger cage next door, which I think would be perfect.  This cage is empty except for a couple of bits of redundant electrical equipment.

Frankly I’m furious, this is putting my staff at a completely unnecessary risk from bruised fingers (we supply rigger gloves) to the potential for a cylinder to fall on them (they always work in pairs).

I’m going to try and meet the elusive Health and Safety person from Landlord B, but they seem adamant we cannot use the alternative.  Having thought about this long and hard, and given myself plenty time to calm down I’m wondering what tactics to employ.  My employer is amendable to going to the CEO’s of these two landlords, but before I threaten that does anyone here have any ideas for other means to get a sensible (and what’s more important a safe) solution?

I have volunteered to pay for any amendments to the largely empty larger cage that will be used by not only us but other tenants of Landlord A and B.

I’ve a mind to require Landlord B’s Health and Safety person to help investigate the next bruised finger – we’ve had one but that was late last year – it’s been that long!

BOC have guidance on storage of gas cylinders which includes segregating full and empty bottles on their web site.

IMDG308 has some guidance.

Have you considered the hazard presented in your fire risk assessment in relation to what else is in the vicinity and exclusion zones for gas cylinders in fires. Doesn't matter whether they are flammable or not, they are pressurised and a major hazard in the event of a fire. Local Fire and Rescue Service may even offer advice but it may be so strongly worded as to cause significant problems depending on the actual situation.

If all else fails, report the matter to the HSE, maybe they would consider making a visit (making an improvement notice) or prosecution.  Either way escalate it, challenge and change.