Airgas, Inc. : Airgas Recognized for Quality Job Creation by Oklahoma Department of Commerce

RADNOR, PA and TULSA, OK - January 23, 2012 - The Oklahoma Department of Commerce, through the Tulsa Metro Chamber, today announced its approval of a Quality Jobs application from Airgas, Inc. (NYSE: ARG), the largest U.S. distributor of industrial, medical, and specialty gases, and related hardgoods, such as welding equipment and safety products. Airgas plans to create approximately 130 new jobs in the Tulsa region, with most of the jobs created during 2012.

Airgas has begun to recruit for new positions at a Business Support Center (BSC) that will operate out of a 58,000 square foot office space at 110 W. 7th Street in downtown Tulsa. Slated to open in March 2012, the BSC will provide accounting and administrative services for Airgas' Central Division, one of four divisions that make up Airgas' distribution business. As specific positions are announced, they will be listed on the company's recruiting website: .

"When considering locations for a new BSC, Tulsa was a logical and attractive choice," said Terry Lodge, Central Division President, Airgas USA, LLC. "We have a long and successful history as an employer in this area. The Tulsa workforce is a great source of talented and dedicated administrative professionals, which is something we need in supporting Airgas' business operations from the Gulf Coast of Texas and Louisiana through Oklahoma and Kansas to the borders of Idaho and Montana. The new BSC is part of the backbone which makes Airgas the industry leader and our commitment to local service possible."

"We congratulate Airgas on its growth and commend the Company's selection of downtown Tulsa as the location for its expanded operations. We thank Airgas for its continuing commitment to the Tulsa area," said Mike Neal, president and CEO of the Tulsa Metro Chamber. "Airgas is part of a strong legacy of quality employers who are making a significant contribution to our region's future."

"We welcome Airgas as a new downtown neighbor. As important, this is not just another business coming to Tulsa," Tulsa Mayor Dewey Bartlett said. "This is a significant symbol that reflects the strong job creation momentum we have in the region."

About Airgas, Inc.
Airgas, Inc. (NYSE: ARG), through its subsidiaries, is the largest U.S. distributor of industrial, medical and specialty gases, and hardgoods, such as welding equipment and supplies. Airgas is also a leading U.S. producer of atmospheric gases, carbon dioxide, dry ice, and nitrous oxide, one of the largest U.S. distributors of safety products, and a leading U.S. distributor of refrigerants, ammonia products, and process chemicals. More than 14,000 employees work in approximately 1,100 locations, including branches, retail stores, gas fill plants, specialty gas labs, production facilities and distribution centers. Airgas also distributes its products and services through eBusiness, catalog and telesales channels. Its national scale and strong local presence offer a competitive edge to its diversified customer base. For more information, please visit .

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