Taylor-Wharton RS-234 - Manual (Page 3)

2
WARNING
The following safety precautions are for your protection. Before performing installation, operating, or maintenance
procedures read and follow all safety precautions in this section and in the referenced publications. Failure to observe
all safety precautions can result in property damage, personal injure, or possibly death. It is the responsibility of the
purchaser of this equipment to adequately warn the user of the precautions and safe practices for the use of this
equipment and the cryogenic fluid stored in it.
Safety Precautions for Liquid Nitrogen
Nitrogen is an inert, colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that makes up four-fifths of the air you breathe. Liquid
nitrogen is obtained by cooling air until it becomes a liquid and then removing the oxygen that makes up the other fifth
of the air. Liquid nitrogen is at a temperature of -320
°F (-196°C) under normal atmospheric pressure.
Extreme Cold - Cover Eyes and Exposed Skin
Accidental contact of liquid nitrogen or cold issuing gas with the skin or eyes may cause a freezing injury similar to
frostbite. Handle the liquid so that it won't splash or spill. Protect your eyes and cover the skin where the possibility
of contact with the liquid, cold pipes and cold equipment, or the cold gas exists. Safety goggles or a face shield should
be worn if liquid ejection or splashing may occur or cold gas may issue forcefully from equipment. Clean insulated
gloves that can be easily removed and long sleeves are recommended for arm protection. Cuffless trousers should be
worn outside boots or over the shoes to shed spilled liquid.
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 that does not contain enough oxygen for breathing can cause dizziness, unconsciousness,
or even death. Nitrogen being colorless, odorless, and tasteless cannot be detected by the human senses and will be
inhaled normally as if it were air. Without adequate ventilation, the expanding nitrogen will displace the normal air
without warning that a non-life-supporting atmosphere is present. Store liquid containers outdoors or in other well
ventilated areas.
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.
CAUTION:
When installing field fabricated piping, make certain a suitable safety valve is installed in each
section of piping between shut-off valves.
For more detailed information concerning safety precautions and safe practices to be observed when handling
cryogenic liquids consult CGA pamphlet P-12 "Handling Cryogenic Liquids" available from the Compressed Gas
Association, 1235 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA 22202.
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.