What can result from the failure of a high-pressure gas cylinder?

The failure of a high-pressure gas cylinder can lead to explosive decompression, which occurs when the stored gas is suddenly released under high pressure. This uncontrolled release can cause the cylinder to act like a projectile, resulting in significant damage and posing serious risks to nearby personnel and equipment. The kinetic energy from such a release can cause injuries, fatalities, and destruction of property due to the high velocities involved. Additionally, the rapid expansion of gas can create shock waves and further hazards in the surrounding area.

In contrast, other choices such as electrical hazards, inadequate storage, and noise pollution are not direct consequences of a gas cylinder's failure. While they may represent other safety concerns in different contexts, they do not specifically arise from the failure of a high-pressure gas cylinder. This reinforces the importance of proper cylinder handling and storage protocols to prevent explosive decompression events.