7
SafetyProduct Manual - Trifecta
®
XPro Series
Human exposure to an atmosphere containing 12% or less
oxygen leads to rapid unconsciousness. Unconsciousness can
occur so rapidly that the user is rendered essentially helpless.
This can occur if the condition is reached by an immediate
oxygen.
atmospheres rely on the “buddy system” for protection -
obviously the “buddy” is equally susceptible to asphyxiation
if he or she enters the area to assist the unconscious partner
unless equipped with a portable air supply. Best protection
is obtainable by equipping all individuals with a portable
supply of respirable air. Life lines are acceptable only if the
area is essentially free of obstructions and individuals can
assist one another without constraint.
exist:
1. Use the “buddy system.” Use more than one “buddy” if
necessary to move a fellow worker in an emergency.
2. Both the worker and “buddy” should be equipped with
self-contained or airline breathing equipment.
Oxygen Enriched Atmospheres
An oxygen-enriched atmosphere occurs whenever the normal
oxygen content of air is allowed to rise above 23%. While
can occur more readily in an oxygen-rich atmosphere than
in air; and combustion proceeds at a faster rate although no
more heat is released.
It is important to locate an oxygen system in a well
ventilated location since oxygen-rich atmospheres may
of a safety relief device or leakage from the system.
adequate compatibility with oxygen under the conditions
of temperature and pressure to which the components may
be exposed in the containment and use of oxygen. Easily
ignitable materials shall be avoided unless they are parts of
suitable by tests or by past experience.
Compatibility involves both combustibility and ease of
ignition. Materials that burn in air may burn violently in pure
pressure. Metals for containers and piping must be carefully
conditions may call for other materials (usually copper or
its alloy) because of their greater resistance to ignition and
lower rate of combustion.
ignition energies in oxygen. Many such materials may
by adiabatic compression produced when oxygen at high
pressure is rapidly introduced into a system initially at low
pressure.
Warning! If clothing should be splashed
with liquid oxygen it will become
highly ammable and easily
ignited while concentrated
oxygen remains. Such clothing
must be aired out immediately,
removing the clothing if
possible, and should not be
considered safe for at least 30
minutes.
Nitrogen and Argon
Nitrogen and argon (inert gases) are simple asphyxiates.
Neither gas will support or sustain life and can produce
immediate hazardous conditions through the displacement
of oxygen. Under high pressure these gases may produce
for life is present.
Nitrogen and argon vapors in air dilute the concentration
of oxygen necessary to support or sustain life. Inhalation
and possibly death. Individuals should be prohibited from
entering areas where the oxygen content is below 19%
unless equipped with a self-contained breathing apparatus.
Unconsciousness and death may occur with virtually no
warning if the oxygen concentration is below approximately
8%. Contact with cold nitrogen or argon gas or liquid can
cause cryogenic (extreme low temperature) burns and freeze
body tissue.