The Compressed Gas Association (CGA) has released a new and critical safety standard: CGA GC6.14, Safety Requirements for the Storage and Handling of Carbon Dioxide in Beverage Applications.
This standard is a major milestone in improving safety practices for facilities and establishments that store or utilize carbon dioxide (CO2), especially in beverage environments like restaurants, bars, breweries, and quick-service locations.
At CO2Meter, we are committed to helping businesses stay compliant and safe. In this post, we break down what CGA GC6.14 means, why it matters and further, how to implement it effectively in the workplace.
What is a compressed gas?
Compressed gas is defined as, "a mixture of gases having, in a container, an absolute pressure exceeding 40 psi at 70°F (21.1°C); or a gas or mixture of gases having, in a container, an absolute pressure exceeding 104 psi at 130°F (54.4°C)."
Many hazards are commonly associated with working in and around compressed gases including:
- Oxygen displacement
- Fire & explosions
- Toxic gas exposure
- Physical hazards
Because of these hazards, standards have been put in place in order to mitigate injury and provide awareness to the hazards associated with compressed gases, equipment, control, and handling.
What is CGA GC6.14?
CGA GC6.14 is a newly released guideline by the Compressed Gas Association that outlines the minimum gas safety requirements for the storage, handling, and use of carbon dioxide in beverage dispensing applications.
It includes specific direction for CO2 system installation, ventilation, signage, training, and gas detection safety monitoring requirements in enclosed areas.
The purpose of GC6.14 is to mitigate the health and safety risks associated with CO2 exposure. It also reflects the growing concern across the industry about the hazards of CO2, especially in confined or poorly ventilated spaces where gas buildup can go undetected.
Importance of CGA GC6.14
Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in CO2-related incidents in the food and beverage industry. This includes near-misses and fatalities resulting from leaks in beverage gas systems.
CGA GC6.14 directly addresses these risks by introducing a framework that prioritizes:
-
Gas detection safety systems
-
Ventilation requirements
-
Safe cylinder storage and handling
- Employee awareness, advocacy and training
These measures are not just best practices, but further are now considered essential for compliance and life safety.
Who must comply with CGA GC6.14?
Overall, CGA GC6.14 applies to any business or facility that utilizes CO2 for beverage dispensing, including:
-
Restaurants and cafés
-
Bars and nightclubs
-
Breweries and distilleries
-
Quick-service restaurants (QSRs)
-
Stadiums and event venues
- Food courts and franchises
Owners, facility managers, gas suppliers, and installers must ensure all systems are installed and maintained in accordance with GC6.14.
Role of Gas Distributors and Compliance with GC6.14
Both gas distributors and certified installers play a critical role in ensuring end-user compliance with the newly established CGA GC6.14: Standard for Safe Practices for the Production, Storage, Distribution, and Use of Carbon Dioxide.
This standard places greater emphasis on proper installation, routine maintenance, and documentation of carbon dioxide systems, especially where CO2 is used in confined or enclosed spaces. Distributors and installers are not only responsible for supplying safe CO2, but also for ensuring that all systems and components meet the latest requirements outlined in the CGA GC6.14 standard.
From the initial delivery of bulk or cylinder CO2 to the final connection of piping systems and alarms, distributors must verify that each step follows best safety practices. This includes ensuring gas detection safety systems are installed where necessary, that signage is clearly visible and that customers are informed of potential hazards.
Installers, on the other hand, must ensure that pressure regulators, manifolds, tubing, and gas detection safety systems are installed to code and that they are accountable.
A key area of accountability includes recordkeeping and client education. Installers must document system specs and alarm calibrations, provide proper signage, and offer training to facility managers and staff. This hands-on education ensures customers understand their responsibilities under CGA GC6.14, such as maintaining gas monitors, conducting regular inspections, and responding to alarms. Failure to do so can result in non-compliance, unsafe working environments, and liability concerns for both the distributor and the customer.
Ultimately, gas distributors and installers serve as the frontline compliance partners for businesses using CO2. Their ability to interpret and implement CGA GC6.14 correctly not only safeguards people and property but also strengthens trust across the supply chain. By acting as advisors they elevate industry standards and reinforce a culture of safety within restaurants, breweries, cultivation facilities, hospitals, and more.
Safety Requirements Outlined in CGA GC6.14
CGA GC6.14 is organized into several key sections, each outlining critical safety practices and responsibilities for facilities that store or use carbon dioxide in beverage applications.
Below we provide a brief overview of the most relevant sections for those focused on gas safety monitoring and CO2 hazard mitigation strategies.
Section 1: Scope and Purpose
Defines the intent of the standard to protect personnel and the public by establishing minimum safety requirements for the storage and handling of CO2 in beverage applications.
Section 2: Definitions
Clarifies key terms including “confined space,” “permissible exposure limits,” and “gas detection systems,” ensuring consistent interpretation throughout the standard.
Section 3: General Requirements
Outlines the basic expectations for facility layout, equipment use, and hazard communication. Emphasizes that all CO2 gas safety systems must be assessed for potential risks and monitored accordingly.
Section 4: System Design and Installation
Focuses on engineering controls including ventilation design, gas safety system placement, and proper installation of CO2 piping and cylinders. Requires CO2 gas sensors to be installed in low-lying areas where the gas may collect.
Section 5: Gas Detection and Safety Alarm Requirements
One of the most critical sections for compliance, this mandates that fixed gas monitors be installed in areas where CO2 accumulation is possible. Monitors must activate alarms at both the TWA (5,000 ppm) and STEL (30,000 ppm) thresholds.
Alarms must be both visual and audible, with indicators clearly visible to workers.
Section 6: Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance
Requires periodic system checks, including calibration of CO2 gas safety systems and testing of alarms. Facilities must maintain documentation of inspections and demonstrate that systems are in working order at all times.
Section 7: Employee Training and Safety Protocols
Details the need for documented training programs focused on CO2 hazard recognition, alarm response, evacuation plans, and proper use of safety equipment.
Section 8: Emergency Procedures
Requires facilities to have formal response protocols in place in the event of a CO2 leak or alarm condition. Emergency plans must include evacuation routes, ventilation response, and coordination with first responders.
By aligning your facility’s safety practices with these sections, and by implementing technologies like CO2Meter’s RAD-0102-6 system, your team can achieve full compliance while building a robust, proactive safety culture around CO2 gas handling.
Meeting CGA GC6.14 with CO2 Gas Safety Monitoring
For businesses aiming to fully comply with CGA GC6.14, investing in robust CO2 gas safety monitoring system is essential.
One of the most widely adopted solutions on the market is CO2Meter’s RAD-0102-6 Remote CO2 Storage Safety 3 Alarm. This fixed gas detection safety monitor is specifically engineered to monitor CO2 levels in enclosed storage areas and issue real-time alerts in the event of a leak.
The RAD-0102-6 also includes built-in visual and audible alarms and integrates seamlessly into any food, beverage, or agriculture facility infrastructure. Most recently, to further expand its capabilities for larger facilities, CO2Meter now offers two powerful accessories: the RAD-PMU (Power Monitor Unit) and the RAD-CDU (Central Display Unit). While the RAD-PMU allows for flexible power loss management, the RAD-CDU enables centralized monitoring of a variety of gas systems across multiple facilities.
Implementing this system ensures compliance not only with CGA GC6.14, but also with local fire codes, OSHA, and the International Fire Code (IFC).
It further helps mitigate the dangers of CO2 accumulation by providing immediate, actionable alerts to protect staff, customers, and property.
Key Benefits of the RAD-0102-6 System:
-
Three built-in alarm levels for STEL, TWA, and high-level alerts
-
Easy integration with ventilation or emergency shut-off systems
-
Loud 80db audible alarms with bright visual LED indicators
-
Expandable options for remote display and relay control units
- Plug-and-play installation and pre-calibrated sensors
By implementing a proven solution like the RAD-0102-6 with the RAD-PMU and RAD-CDU accessories, facilities not only achieve compliance but they create a safer working environment designed to protect their people and their infrastructure.
Steps to Implement CGA GC6.14 in the Workplace
Complying with CGA GC6.14 may sound somewhat complex, but with the right information and guidelines it can be easier than ever to implement.
Below we breakdown a few simple steps to implement CGA GC6.14 in your facility:
1. Assess Your Risk
-
Identify all enclosed areas where CO2 is stored or used
-
Install Compliant Monitoring Equipment
- Use CO2Meter’s fixed detectors and central displays
2. Improve Ventilation
- Work with HVAC professionals to meet airflow requirements
3. Train and Educate Employees/Staff
- Conduct annual training sessions on CO2 hazards and alarm response
4. Maintain Adequate Documentation
- Keep logs of training, sensor calibration, and inspections
Learn more about Gas Safety Hazards and Standards
CGA GC6.14 represents a critical evolution in overall gas safety and CO2 safety practices. As incidents continue to occur due to undetected CO2 leaks or overexposure, standards like this offer a proactive approach to life safety.
Whether you're a facility manager, gas supplier, or installer, understanding and applying this new standard is essential. If you are looking for expert advice, product recommendations, or a safety consultation, CO2Meter’s team is also here to help.
We’ve partnered with gas distributors, restaurant chains, and beverage gas distributors across North America to implement gas safety systems that not only protect lives but meet compliance standards like CGA GC6.14.
If you're looking for a deep dive into the full CGA GC6.14 standard, you can purchase the official document directly from the Compressed Gas Association at www.cganet.com.
Stay Safe.
