Why should oil-based products be avoided when using oxygen tanks?

Oil-based products should be avoided when using oxygen tanks primarily because they can ignite and cause explosions in high-pressure environments. Oxygen supports combustion, meaning that it can cause materials to ignite more easily than they would in normal atmospheric conditions. When oil or other petroleum products come into contact with high concentrations of oxygen, they can create a highly flammable situation. At high pressures, even a small spark or heat source can lead to a rapid ignition and potentially catastrophic consequences, including explosions.

In the context of medical gas administration and safety protocols, eliminating the risk of fire or explosion is critical. This is why strict guidelines prohibit the use of oil-based substances near oxygen sources. Proper training emphasizes the need for adherence to these safety practices to protect both personnel and patients from serious hazards.