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The packaging and storage of industrial gases involves the following types of hazards:
Pressure
Temperature
These two hazards may be combined in certain cases. Because of these hazards, all gases are classified as dangerous goods according to legislation.
Another hazard that is common to almost all gases is that of asphyxiation due to lack of oxygen. The second breath of air we take that has been replaced by a gas containing no oxygen will result in unconsciousness. If help is not provided immediately, the victim will die in just a few minutes. For those gases considered to be hazardous because of their specific properties (such as flammability or toxicity), safety information is provided and safety precautions are implemented.
Specific Hazards
The specific hazards of some gases increase the general level of risk. As with any chemical product, the following characteristics may be hazardous:
These hazards, which exist during transport and use, are indicated on our products using the dangerous goods symbols shown here.
Our employees and those of our customers are now fully aware of the importance of safety. For further information concerning hazards and precautions, click on the table of gas hazards and precautions.
Oxygen (O₂)
Hazards
Oxidiser
Considerably accelerates and sustains combustion may react strongly with other combustible materials
Precautions
Do not use with oil or grease
Only use equipment approved for oxygen use
Keep away from all sources of ignition
Store away from flammable gases and other flammable products
Oxygen is supplied as a compressed gas or as a low temperature liquid.
Nitrogen and Argon (N₂ & Ar)
Hazards
May cause asphyxiation if they replace air in a confined space
Precautions
Store and use in a well ventilated area
First Aid
Never attempt to rescue a victim of asphyxiation without using a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
These gases are supplied as compressed gases or as a low temperature liquids.
Acetylene (C₂H₂)
Hazards
Extremely flammable, may form an explosive mixture with air unstable and decomposes violently under the effect of heat or pressure.
Forms explosive acetylides in combination with copper, silver or mercury.
Precautions
Acetylene use pressure must not exceed 150 kpa
Install flash back arrestors on all cutting equipment
Store in a well-ventilated area, away from oxygen-carrying materials
Acetylene is supplied dissolved under pressure in acetone.
Hydrogen (H₂)
Hazards
Extremely flammable, may form an explosive mixture with air burns with a colorless and invisible flame
Precautions
Keep away from all sources of ignition
Store in a well-ventilated area, away from oxidising materials
Hydrogen is supplied as a compressed gas.
Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)
Hazards
May cause asphyxiation if CO₂ displaces air in a confined space
Low concentrations increase the breathing rate and cause headache
CO2 is heavier than air and may accumulate in confined spaces, particularly at floor level or below
Precautions
Store and use in a well-ventilated area
First Aid
Never attempt to rescue a victim of asphyxiation without using a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
Carbon Dioxide is supplied as either compressed and liquefied or as a low temperature liquid, or in solid form at low temperature (Dry Ice).
Nitrous Oxide (N₂0)
Hazards
Oxidant
Considerably accelerates and sustains combustion
May react strongly with combustible fuels or materials
Heavier than air, may accumulate in confined areas, especially at floor level and below
Precautions
Do not use with oil or grease
Keep away from all sources of ignition
Store in a well-ventilated area, away from gases and other flammable products.
Nitrous Oxide is supplied as either compressed and liquefied or as a low temperature liquid.
Nitrous Oxide is supplied as either compressed and liquefied or as a low temperature liquid.
