High-Pressure Gas Hazards

Safety note in atomic Spectroscopy, the use of. high-pressure gas sources, e.g. cylinders, an be particularly hazardous.. Always consult a demonstrator or technician before use. ... 

As oil and gas exploration extends into progressively deeper waters, the potential hazard posed by gas hydrates to operations is gaining increasing recognition. Hazards can be considered as arising from two possible events (1) the release of high-pressure gas trapped below the hydrate stability zone, or (2) the destabilization of in situ hydrates. A major issue is how gas hydrates alter the physical properties of sediment. The link between seafloor failure and gas... 

The stored energy of high-pressure gas systems makes such reactions quite hazardous, and so they are performed on a small scale ca. 1 g). The maximum pressure available for each gas is dependent on the gas in question, as phases liquefy at different pressures. The upper limit of these reactions is 18 kbar (1.8 GPa) for argon-based vessels. Here it is the absolute pressure that is the important factor, and not the type of gas. 

There are four principal areas of hazard relating to the use of cryogenic fluids or in cryogenic systems. These are flammabihty, high pressure gas, materials, and persoimel. AU categories of hazard are often present in a system concurrently and must be considered when introducing a cryogenic system or process. 

It is often possible to lay out valves, pumps, motor generators and high pressure gas containers in locations where the only likely impact zone for a potential missile is an adequately strong concrete structure. While such an approach is straightforward, simple and easily understood as a means of eliminating hazards, provision should be made for the required maintenance and inspection of the equipment. 

HAT MAKES chemicals bum or explode What are the dangers associated with high-pressure gas cylinders or glass vacuum lines How safe is it to use liquid nitrogen Recognizing hazardous physical properties is an important skill needed to keep you safe. Chemists use a wide variety of chemicals with various physical properties and many types of uncommon equipment in laboratories. Many lab incidents occur because students, or even experienced chemists, don t learn enough about chemicals and equipment before using them. This chapter reviews the many ways we can get hurt in a laboratory, and ways to stay safe in the lab. 

Gas venting from the cylinder valve outlet or other points of leakage is a hazard to personnel using the cylinder. A high-pressure gas stream can penetrate the skin causing serious injury the eyes and face are extremely vulnerable. Valve outlets should be directed away from the body when being opened. The use of goggles or a face shield is also recommended. 

Improper storage of chemicals or equipment is a serious safety hazard. For instance, high-pressure gas cylinders used in the laboratory can litei-aUy become missiles if stored without appropriate caps or not clamped to a wall or laboratory bench. Gas cylinders should be stored with their cap in place and properly chained or clamped at all times. In addition, chemicals stored together must be compatible in order to minimize cross reactions (e.g., acids should not be stored with bases). 

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