CAHNRS > Institute of Biological Chemistry > Policies > IBC Operating Policies and Procedures > Compressed and Condensed Gases

Compressed and Condensed Gases

Liquid Nitrogen Tank: Clark Hall, Room 415, and PSB, across from Room 212

Contact Person for problems or questions: Ron Nugen, PSB B7, 5-2333 or Jeff Bowman, PSB 101D, 5-8383

When using liquid nitrogen, please enter your name, the name of your lab, and the amount of liquid nitrogen used on the sign-in sheet. When obtaining liquid nitrogen for the first time, please have your lab supervisor show you how. Inform Jeff when the tank is empty and take the log sheet to Jeff.  Refills for delivery can take 2-3 business days.

Hazards

Liquid nitrogen can cause severe damage to your skin, eyes, and face if you do not follow the correct safety procedures. In case of contact with skin, keep the body part warmed at room temperature and seek medical help immediately by calling 911.

Protective Equipment and Procedures

  1. Always wear a face shield and heavy-duty gloves. Booties are provided and should be worn for foot protection.
  2. The tank hose becomes extremely cold; aim it away from your body and other people nearby.
  3. Open the liquid valve slowly so the liquid does not splash.
  4. Do not spill the liquid on the floor, your clothing or shoes.
  5. Store liquid nitrogen in a labeled container in a safe location where spilling is unlikely.
  6. Do not pour liquid nitrogen down the sink. Let it evaporate or return it to your storage tank.

 Compressed and Condensed Gas Safety Notes

  1. Be aware of the hazards of the gases you are using.
  2. Always keep tanks clamped or chained in place.
  3. Never unchain or move a tank without checking to see that the cap protecting the valve is in place. Remember, a broken valve on a compressed gas cylinder may turn that cylinder into a rocket capable of penetrating a brick wall.
  4. Never allow any foreign material to get into the regulator.
  5. Never interchange regulators between different gases without considering possible reactions between the gases and the effect on your experiment or equipment.
  6. Never use a regulator whose threads do not fit the tank properly. Consult the Aldrich Chemical Catalog for the proper CGA (Compressed Gas Association cylinder attachment) connections or see Ron Nugen (PSB B7, 5-2333) for more information.
  7. Wear gloves and eye protection when handling liquefied gases.
  8. Be aware of possible accidents that could suddenly release freezing liquid.
  9. Check all regulators and related plumbing regularly for leaks.
  10. Return unused or empty cylinders with protective cap in place.