Taylor-Wharton Microbulk Tanks - Manual (Page 8)

TW-407 Rev.-
6
Keep Equipment Area Well Ventilated
Although nitrogen is non-toxic and non-flammable, it can cause asphyxiation in
a confined area without adequate ventilation. Any atmosphere not containing
enough oxygen for breathing can cause dizziness, unconsciousness, or even death.
Nitrogen, a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas, cannot be detected by the human
senses and will be inhaled normally. Without adequate ventilation, the expanding
nitrogen will displace the normal air resulting in a non-life-supporting atmosphere.
Dispose of Waste Liquid Nitrogen Safely
Dispose of waste liquid nitrogen out-of-doors where its cold temperature cannot
damage floors or driveways and where it will evaporate rapidly. An outdoor pit
filled with clean sand or gravel will evaporate liquid nitrogen safely and quickly.
NOTE: Argon is an inert gas whose physical properties are very similar to those of
nitrogen. For handling of liquid argon, follow the safe practices described for the
handling and use of liquid nitrogen.
Safety Precautions for Liquid Carbon Dioxide
WARNING: CARBON DIOXIDE CAN CAUSE ASPHYXIATION AND DEATH IN CONFINED, POORLY VEN-
TILATED AREAS.
COLD GAS CARBON DIOXIDE CAN CAUSE SEVERE FROSTBITE TO THE EYES OR SKIN. DO NOT TOUCH
FROSTED PIPES OR VALVES. IF ACCIDENTAL EXPOSURE TO THESE GASES OCCURS, CONSULT A PHY-
SICIAN AT ONCE. IF A PHYSICIAN IS NOT READILY AVAILABLE, WARM THE AREAS AFFECTED BY
FROSTBITE WITH WATER THAT IS NEAR BODY TEMPERATURE
Keep Equipment Area Well Ventilated
Carbon dioxide affects the important acid-base balance in the body. Carbon di-
oxide is formed in normal functioning within the body, but the body can toler-
ate increased amounts of carbon dioxide only in limited concentration. This is
recognized in OSHA standards where a Threshold Limit Value of 5,000 parts per
million by volume (0.5 percent concentration) has been adopted. For safety, con-
centrations above this level should not be permitted; increased concentrations
can cause bodily harm or death. Additionally, carbon dioxide can cause asphyx-
iation by displacing oxygen resulting in dizziness, unconsciousness or death.
Ten percent carbon dioxide in air can be endured for only a few minutes; twelve to
fifteen percent soon cause unconsciousness; twenty five percent may cause death
if exposure lasts for several hours. Carbon dioxide cannot be detected by the hu-
man senses and will be inhaled normally. Carbon dioxide is heavier than air and
will accumulate in low lying areas. Carbon dioxide concentrations will be greater
in these areas. If adequate ventilation is not provided, carbon dioxide may dis-
place normal air without warning that a life-depriving atmosphere is developing.
WARNINGS