Why is it important to ensure non-flammable gas cylinders are secure during storage?

Ensuring that non-flammable gas cylinders are secure during storage is vital primarily to prevent them from falling over. When gas cylinders are not properly secured, any movement, whether accidental or due to environmental factors, can cause them to topple. This presents several risks, such as potential damage to the cylinder itself, which could lead to leaks or other hazards. A falling cylinder can also pose a significant danger to personnel nearby, as it might injure someone or cause further accidents, particularly in a busy environment like a laboratory or an industrial site. Properly securing the cylinders minimizes these risks and enhances overall safety during storage.

The other aspects, such as unauthorized access or environmental damage, while important in their own right, are secondary to the immediate and serious safety concerns posed by an unsecured gas cylinder. The appearance of the cylinders, while a consideration in certain contexts, does not impact safety and functionality as directly as the secure storage does.