What is a critical safety measure during the handling of medical gas cylinders?

Ensuring cylinders are secured to prevent tipping is a critical safety measure during the handling of medical gas cylinders due to the potential hazards associated with these cylinders. Medical gas cylinders are often heavy and can be unstable if not properly secured. If a cylinder tips over, it can lead to serious injuries, damage to the equipment, or unintended release of gas, which could potentially be hazardous in a healthcare environment.

Securing cylinders also helps to maintain proper airflow and access, as well as reduces the risk of damage to the valves. This ensures that the gases are available for safe use when needed. By preventing tipping, you create a safer workspace not only for the person handling the cylinders but also for others in the vicinity.

The other choices, while they may provide some level of safety, do not address the specific risk associated with the movement and storage of medical gas cylinders as directly as securing them does. Gloves, working in pairs, and using a gas mask are important safety practices but do not mitigate the risk of a cylinder falling or becoming a projectile, which is a primary concern when dealing with these gas containers.