Decanting of Liquid Nitrogen (LN2)

Standard Operating Procedure

 

MSS SOP NO: LN01   Reviewed May 2022        Next Review date: May 2024

 

Users of the Stores LN2 facilities are requested to observe the following items.

 

ITEMS

   

  1. Competent personnel only to decant liquid Nitrogen (LN2)
  2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  3. Dewar for transporting LN2
  4. Site clearance around LN2 tank
  5. Decanting operation
  6. First Aid

 

DETAILS

 

1 Competent personnel

             Dispensing personnel must be appropriately trained and approved as competent

             by the University. 

 

2 Personal Protective Equipment   (PPE)

            Long cold store gloves that protect the hands and wrists

            Face shield that protects the eyes and face

            Coat with long sleeves to protect the arms

            Coat sleeves to be over gloves to prevent LN2 splashing into glove

 

3 Dewar should have:

            Sturdy handle for carrying Dewar

            Loose fitting lid to allow gas to escape

 

4 Site should be prepared:

            Clear workspace of unnecessary equipment and obstacles

             Be aware of the location of the tap V6a

            Be fully clothed and protected with PPE before approaching the LN2 tank

 

5 Decanting operation requirements:

            Do not stretch between control valve and Dewar

            To start dispensing open main isolating valve labeled V6 followed by valve V6a

             The procedure for shutting off is a reversal of the above

            Always have a hand on the control valve V6a for a quick shut-off of LN2

 

6 FIRST-AID

            At the first sign of trouble: SHUT OFF LN2

            Immediately remove gloves or clothing to allow LN2 to escape

            Quickly place the affected area in lukewarm water for a few minutes

            Obtain medical assistance ASAP (see panel below)

            DO NOT smoke a cigarette or drink alcohol

 

EMERGENCY: call Internal 2222 or 8888

(My Location is: Liquid Nitrogen Tank on the Medical School Stores loading bay)

 Medical School Stores, A1953, Medical School.  Tel: 30045/30046