Taylor-Wharton LP3 - Manual (Page 3)

WARNING
The following safety precautions are for your protection. Before installing, operating, or maintaining this unit
read and follow all safety precautions in this section and in reference publications. Failure to observe all
safety precautions can result in property damage, personal injury, 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.
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.
Safety Precautions for Liquid Oxygen
Oxygen is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be condensed into a liquid at the low temperature of
297 degrees below zero Fahrenheit (-183
°C) under normal atmospheric pressure. Approximately one-fifth of
normal air is oxygen. As a liquid, oxygen is pale blue in color. Oxygen is non-flammable, however it
vigorously accelerates the burning of combustible materials.
Keep Combustibles Away from Oxygen and Eliminate Ignition Sources
Many substances that do not normally burn in air require only a slight spark or moderate heat to set them
aflame in the presence of concentrated oxygen. Other substances, which are only moderately combustible in
air, can burn violently when a high percentage of oxygen is present.
Do not permit smoking or open flame in any area where liquid oxygen is stored, handled, or used. Keep all
organic materials and other flammable substances away from possible contact with liquid oxygen. Some of
the materials that can react violently with oxygen are oil, grease, kerosene, cloth, wood, paint, tat, and dirt that
contains oil or grease. Under certain conditions flammable materials that have become permeated with liquid
oxygen are impact sensitive and can detonate if subjected to shock.
Keep Area and Exterior Surfaces Clean to Prevent Ignition
As normal industrial soot and dirt can constitute a combustion hazard, all equipment surfaces must be kept
very clean. Do not place oxygen equipment on asphalt surfaces, or allow grease or oil deposits to remain on
benches or concrete surfaces in the vicinity of the oxygen equipment. Use cleaning agents, which will not
leave organic deposits, on the cleaned surfaces. Equipment to be used in contact with liquid oxygen should be
handled only with clean gloves or hands washed clean of oil.
Maintain Adequate Ventilation
Enclosed areas containing oxygen equipment should be ventilated to prevent accumulations of oxygen and
thereby minimize combustion hazards.
Extreme Cold - Cover Eyes and Exposed Skin
Accidental contact of liquid oxygen 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 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
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