HYDROGEN - H2

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Hydrogen is a colorless, odorless, flammable gas or a colorless, odorless, cryogenic liquid. The main health hazard associated with releases of this gas is asphyxiation, by displacement of oxygen. The liquefied gas can cause frostbite to any contaminated tissue. Hydrogen poses a serious fire hazard when it is accidentally released. Flame or high temperature impinging on a localized area of the cylinder of Hydrogen can cause the cylinder to rupture without activating the cylinder’s relief devices. Provide adequate fire protection during emergency response situations. HYDROGEN GAS LIQUID HYDROGEN HAZARDOUS MATERIAL IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM

Health hazards

BLUE) 0 (BLUE) 3 FLAMMABILITY HAZARD (RED) 4 FLAMMABILITY HAZARD (RED) 4

Physical hazards

YELLOW) 0 (YELLOW) 0 PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT B PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT X EYES RESPIRATORY HANDS BODY EYES RESPIRATORY HANDS BODY See For Routine Industrial Use and Handling Applications See Section 16 for Definition of Ratings SYMPTOMS OF OVEREXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of overexposure for this gas is by inhalation. The following paragraphs describe symptoms of exposure by route of exposure. INHALATION: High concentrations of this gas can cause an oxygen-deficient environment. Individuals breathing such an atmosphere may experience symptoms which include headaches, ringing in ears, dizziness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, and depression of all the senses. Under some circumstances of over- exposure, death may occur. The following effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows: CONCENTRATION SYMPTOMS OF EXPOSURE 12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increased, muscular coordination slightly disturbed. 10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset, abnormal fatigue, disturbed respiration. 6-10% Oxygen: Nausea and vomiting, collapse or loss of consciousness. Below 6%: Convulsive movements, possible respiratory collapse, and death. In addition, inhalation of very high levels of this gas may result in mild depression of the central nervous system. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, incoordination, and confusion. Symptoms should be relieved upon removal to fresh air. OTHER POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS: Contact with cryogenic liquid or rapidly expanding gases (which are released under high pressure) may cause frostbite. Symptoms of frostbite include change in skin color to white or grayish-yellow. The pain after contact with liquid can quickly subside. (Continued) HEALTH EFFECTS OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE: An Explanation in Lay Terms. Overexposure to Hydrogen may cause the following health effects: ACUTE: The most significant hazard associated with this gas is inhalation of oxygen-deficient atmospheres. Symptoms of oxygen deficiency includes respiratory difficulty, ringing in ears, headaches, shortness of breath, wheezing, headache, dizziness, indigestion, nausea, and, at high concentrations, unconsciousness or death may occur. The skin of a victim of over-exposure may have a blue color. High concentration inhalation exposure can also lead to mild central nervous system depression. Contact with cryogenic liquid or rapidly expanding gases (which are released under high pressure) may cause frostbite. Symptoms of frostbite include change in skin color to white or grayish-yellow. The pain after contact with liquid can quickly subside. CHRONIC: Chronic exposure to oxygen-deficient atmospheres (below 18% oxygen in air) may effect the heart and nervous system. TARGET ORGANS: ACUTE: Respiratory system. CHRONIC: Heart, central nervous system. What should I do if a hazardous situation occurs?