ARGON

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Argon is a colorless, odorless gas. The main health hazard associated with releases of this gas is asphyxiation, by displacement of oxygen. SYMPTOMS OF OVER-EXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of over-exposure for this HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INFORMATION gas is by inhalation. SYSTEM INHALATION: High concentrations of this gas can cause an oxygen-deficient environment. Individuals breathing such an HEALTH (BLUE) 0 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, FLAMMABILITY (RED) 0 due to the displacement of oxygen. The following effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows: CONCENTRATION SYMPTOM OF EXPOSURE REACTIVITY 12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increased, (YELLOW) 0 muscular coordination slightly disturbed. 10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset, abnormal fatigue, disturbed respiration. PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT B 6-10% Oxygen: Nausea and vomiting, collapse or loss of consciousness. Below 6%: Convulsive EYES movements, RESPIRATORY HANDS possible BODY respiratory collapse, and death. HEALTH EFFECTS OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE: An See Section 8 Explanation in Lay Terms. Over-exposure to Argon may cause the following health effects: For routine industrial applications ACUTE: The most significant hazard associated with this gas is inhalation of oxygen-deficient atmospheres. Symptoms of oxygen deficiency include 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. CHRONIC: There are currently no known adverse health effects associated with chronic exposure to Argon. TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system.