Liquid Oxygen

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

Main Hazards Excessive exposure to heat could cause the internal pressure to increase significantly with the consequent violent rupturing of the vessel. Due to its extremely low boiling point, -183°C, extreme care must be taken when handling liquid oxygen, otherwise frostbite can occur. Evaporated liquid, i.e. gaseous oxygen, is non-flammable, but readily supports combustion. Never allow liquid oxygen to come into contact with combustible materials, such as oil or grease, as they could react with explosive violence. Adverse Health Effects Central nervous systems toxicity including dizziness, convulsions and loss of consciousness after only 2-3 hours of exposure to pure oxygen can occur. Chemical Hazards At the temperature of liquid oxygen, ordinary carbon steels, and most alloy steels, lose their ductility, and are therefore considered to be unsatisfactory. Metals and alloys that have satisfactory ductility include austenitic stainless steel and nickel-chromium alloys. Biological Hazards Contact between the skin and liquid oxygen, or un-insulated piping, or vessels containing it, can cause severe cold burn injuries. Vapour Inhalation Inhalation of the cold vapour from liquid oxygen can cause severe damage to mucous membranes. Eye Contact Can cause severe burn-like injuries Skin Contact Frostbite can occur from contact with liquid oxygen.