NITROGEN (95-99.9%)

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Nitrogen (95-99.9%) is a colorless, odorless gas. The main health hazard associated with releases of this gas is asphyxiation, by displacement of oxygen. Nitrogen (95-99.9%) is not flammable or reactive. SYMPTOMS OF OVEREXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of overexposure for Nitrogen (95-99.9%) is by inhalation. INHALATION: High concentrations of this gas mixture 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. The skin of a victim of overexposure may have a blue color. Under some circumstances of overexposure, death may occur. The effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows: CONCENTRATION OF OXYGEN OBSERVED EFFECT 12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increase, muscular coordination slightly disturbed. 10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset, abnormal fatigue, disturbed respiration. 6-10% Oxygen: Nausea, vomiting, collapse, or loss of consciousness. Below 6%: Convulsive movements, possible respiratory collapse, and death.

Potential health effects

OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE An Explanation in Lay Terms. Overexposure to Nitrogen (95-99.9%) 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 include respiratory difficulty, ringing in ears, headache, dizziness, indigestion, and nausea. At high concentrations, unconsciousness or death may occur. CHRONIC: There are currently no known adverse health effects associated with chronic exposure to this gas. TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system.