Nace CP 1 - Other General Precautions; Reaction Products

Safety 4:9
CP 1–Cathodic Protection Technician Course Manual
© NACE International, 2000
12/01/04
provides valuable information for first aid or medical personnel. Among
products for which safety information is available are:
• Copper sulfate
• Impressed current and galvanic anodes
• Metallurgical and petroleum carbon backfill.
MSDS sheets must be available for review.
• As required by law, always have MSDS sheets readily available for any
chemicals that may be used.
• Know, understand, and follow the information and procedures given.
Reaction Products
In an operating cathodic protection system a number of gases may be
generated either at the anode surface or at the cathode surface. Among
possible gases that may be encountered are oxygen, chlorine, carbon
dioxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen. Some gases are potentially
explosive. Asphyxiation can occur due to the displacement of oxygen by
some of the other gases listed. Some gases are toxic when inhaled. Low pH
(acid) environments can exist around anodes in deep groundbeds.
Due to the potential problems mentioned, caution should be exercised to
avoid situations where gases generated by a cathodic protection system
might be allowed to collect.
Other General Precautions
Other precautions not discussed above that must be considered include:
• Wear protective eyewear, gloves, shoes and other clothing.
• Avoid open flames.
• Avoid causing electric sparks especially in areas that may contain a
hydrocarbon.