Cryogenic liquids are fluids characterized by a boiling point below -100°C at atmospheric pressure. Accidental contact with these fluids causes skin burns, and accidental release into the environment poses a risk of suffocation.
The most common cryogenic liquid used in the laboratories of PoliTO is liquid nitrogen. Those who, in the context of research activities, use cryogenic liquids and perform spilling operations from large containers and transfers must:
- be adequately trained;
- wear appropriate PPE.
Additionally, during the loading operations of these liquids, it is necessary to ventilate the laboratory as much as possible.
For more details on the characteristics of cryogenic liquids and the behavioral norms to follow, refer to the ‘Guide to Safety in Chemical Laboratories’.