The carbonic acid provides the biting taste of soda water and it reacts in alkaline solutions
producing carbonates. It has very few vigorous reactions with other substances except
under conditions of high temperature and pressure in the presence of reactive substances
such as sodium and magnesium.
For this reason carbon dioxide should not be used as a fire extinguishing agent for
reactive metals like sodium and magnesium.
2. Hazards of Carbon Dioxide
Substantial Release of Carbon Dioxide
Any substantial release of carbon dioxide is potentially hazardous especially inside a
poorly ventilated building. Enclosed low-lying areas, where CO2 gas could accumulate in
high concentration, are particularly hazardous because the gas is slow to disperse unless
the spaces are well ventilated.
In case of a substantial release of carbon dioxide in confined areas, evacuate all personnel
as soon as possible. Never enter such areas before they are properly ventilated.
When confined spaces must be entered before they are properly ventilated, the person
entering such areas must be well trained and wear self-contained air breathing apparatus.
Canister respirators give no protection in atmospheres containing dangerous
concentrations of carbon dioxide.
A second, also well trained person should be connected with a rope to the person
entering the gas filled area, for rescue purposes.
Substantial releases of carbon dioxide may occur through:
• Failure of the cylinder or pipe work containing carbon dioxide.
• Release from a relief valve or bursting disc.
• Inadvertent opening of a drain or vent valve while the system contains CO2.
• Failure of connections, e.g. flexible hoses, flanges etc.
• Failure of a regulating device resulting in gas release through the body vent holes.
Low Temperature of Product: Extreme Cold The snow produced from leaks of liquid
carbon dioxide is extremely cold (-78.5°C) and may cause frost bites if touched with bare
hands. If carbon dioxide snow comes into contact with the eyes it may cause severe eye
injury.
Touching of pipes and connections containing liquid carbon dioxide may cause frost bite.
Where there has been a major release of gas, the atmosphere will be very cold and
visibility is likely to be limited. These factors can make escape or rescue difficult.
DRY ICE/CARBON DIOXIDE CYLINDERS - Safe Use & Storage
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