Liquid Nitrogen Safety

It is vital that a number of safety precautions are taken by anyone handling, working with or exposed to Liquid Nitrogen.

Burns

The liquefied form of Nitrogen is extremely cold and can cause frostbite or burns upon contact with the skin. Appropriate safety gear including thermal protective gloves, glasses or a face shield should always be worn.

Asphyxiation

One litre of Liquid Nitrogen becomes 24.6 cubic feet of nitrogen gas. The displacement of oxygen happens very quickly and inhalation can cause a person to become unconscious and suffocate without experiencing any warning signs like dizziness or nausea.

All areas – particularly confined spaces – should be well ventilated, carefully monitored for oxygen levels and ideally fitted with oxygen level alarms.

Risk of explosion

Liquid Nitrogen boils very rapidly and the transition from liquid to gas generates high pressure. Never put Liquid Nitrogen in a closed container – such as a thermos flask – because violent oxidation may cause an explosion to occur. Suitable approved unsealed products (dewars) are available for safe storage.

Clear signage

Signage is important and people should be made aware of the presence of Liquid Nitrogen within any environment.

Safe transportation

Dewars should be utilised for transporting Liquid Nitrogen and anyone responsible for transporting large, high volume dewars should be appropriately trained.

Handlers must be aware of the risk of injury associated with transporting dewars in lifts or in any confined space. Dewars must be inspected regularly and well maintained.

Personal Protective Equipment

A wide range of personal protective equipment – made to British Standard and C.E. marked – is available for your own safety and the wellbeing of your personnel.

Click on the above link to purchase headband ear protectors, Bolle safety goggles, face shields, insulated gloves and much more.

Safety training

Please click here to find out more about Liquid Nitrogen safety training options: http://www.cryoservice.co.uk/lin-safety-training.aspx