Houston, TX – August, 2020 –When it comes to calibration gas, it is essential to understand and follow the right safety and health standards.
Specialty gases can be pure, or a mixture of gases,serve as essential components in chemicals, semiconductors, food, environmental, medical, and several other industries.The gases can be high purity, ultra-purity, and research-grade.
Global specialty gas market is projected to register a healthy CAGR of 7.1% in the forecast period of 2019 to 2026.
However, calibration gases can be hazardous, if not handled properly. You should know the hazards and safety precautions associated with specialty gases.
Flammability
A flammable gas can burn in the presence of an oxidizer and an ignition source. To burn, the gas mixture with the oxidizer should be within the flammable limits range, between the upper flammability limit and lower flammability limit.
Some gases may explode if released in the presence of an ignition source like static electricity. The explosionmay be caused by the sudden rise in pressure, for example, if let out into the atmosphere, they may ignite because their auto-ignition temperature is less than 130 degrees.
Toxicity
If a toxic gas is inhaled, it can be extremely hazardous. Specialty gases, if inhaled, can cause dangerous effects. Some gases, such as arsine, can cause rapid death, while gases like nitrous oxide can damage vital body tissues.
Asphyxiation
Any gas, when released into a limited space, can cause oxygen concentrations to fall below the level required to sustain life.
Some gases are denser than air, and can flow to low-lying areas such as basements, and sewer utility holes. Gases, like hydrogen and helium are less dense than air and can accumulate in spaces like the ceiling.
Asphyxiation due to leaks from gas cylinders, ineffectively isolated process lines, and spillage can be life threatening. This is especially the case with inert gases because they are colorless and odorless which makes them difficult to detect.
This is why it is important to have oxygen monitoring equipment; especially where inert gases are used in enclosed areas.
Burns
Specialty gases can be corrosive and can cause chemical burns and damage to vital tissues. Some gases can be hazardous if they come in contact with a person’s eyes and mouth. Corrosive gases may also mix with the moisture in the air and corrode metal containers and fittings.
High Pressure
Calibration gases stored under high pressure may cause severe injury or damage if released accidentally due to equipment failure or human error.
Safety Tips
Calibration gases should be handled extremely carefully since they can cause physical, environmental, chemical and health hazards.
It is important to know the weight of the specialty gas, especially if it is flammable. In addition, personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, flame-retardant clothing, gloves, and safety shoes should be worn at all times while handling calibration gases. Specialty gas cylinders should not be stored in extreme temperature conditions, near corrosive materials or ignition sources.
If you are looking for calibration gas suppliers or gas detection equipment in Houston, TX, talk to Green Light Safety at 832-262-9931 right away. With over 15 years’ experience in this industry, Green Light Safety specializes in rentals, sales and service of Gas Detection equipment as well as calibration of the equipment.