MATERIAL SAFETY
DATA SHEET
Prepared to U.S. OSHA, CMA, ANSI and Canadian WHMIS Standards
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
CHEMICAL NAME; CLASS: NITROGEN
SYNONYMS: NF Nitrogen.
CHEMICAL FAMILY NAME: Inert Gas
FORMULA: N2
NOTE: Nitrogen MAY BE SUPPLIED BY PIPELINE AT PRESSURES TO 600 psig.
Document Number: 10070
PRODUCT USE: Medical, inerting and general analytical
or synthetic chemical uses.
SUPPLIER/MANUFACTURER'S NAME: AIR LIQUIDE AMERICA CORPORATION
ADDRESS: 2700 Post Oak Drive
Houston, TX 77056-8229
EMERGENCY PHONE: CHEMTREC: 1-800-424-9300
BUSINESS PHONE:
General MSDS Information 1-713/896-2896
Fax on Demand: 1-800/231-1366
2. COMPOSITION and INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS
CHEMICAL NAME CAS # mole % EXPOSURE LIMITS IN AIR
ACGIH OSHA
TLV STEL PEL STEL IDLH OTHER
ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm
Nitrogen 7727-37-9 >99.99 % There are no specific exposure limits for Nitrogen. Nitrogen is a simple asphyxiant
(SA). Oxygen levels should be maintained above 19.5%.
Maximum Impurities <0.01% None of the trace impurities in Nitrogen contribute significantly to the hazards
associated with the product. All hazard information pertinent to Nitrogen has been
provided in this Material Safety Data Sheet, per the requirements of the OSHA Hazard
Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) and State equivalents standards.
NE = Not Established C = Ceiling Limit See Section 16 for Definitions of Terms Used.
NOTE: all WHMIS required information is included. It is located in appropriate sections based on the ANSI Z400.1-1993 format.
NITROGEN - N2 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: JUNE 1, 1998
PAGE 1 OF 6
3. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Nitrogen 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 HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INFORMATION
SYSTEM
Nitrogen is by inhalation.
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 FLAMMABILITY (RED) 0
may occur. The following effects associated with various levels
of oxygen are as follows:
CONCENTRATION SYMPTOM OF EXPOSURE
12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increased, muscular REACTIVITY (YELLOW) 0
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. EYES RESPIRATORY HANDS BODY
Below 6%: Convulsive movements, possible respiratory
collapse, and death.
See Section 8
HEALTH EFFECTS OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE: An
Explanation in Lay Terms. Over-exposure to Nitrogen 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 this gas.
TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system.
4. FIRST-AID MEASURES
RESCUERS SHOULD NOT ATTEMPT TO RETRIEVE VICTIMS OF EXPOSURE TO NITROGEN
WITHOUT ADEQUATE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT. At a minimum, Self-Contained
Breathing Apparatus
Remove victim(s) to fresh air, as quickly as possible. Only trained personnel should administer supplemental
oxygen and/or cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, if necessary.
Victim(s) must be taken for medical attention. Rescuers should be taken for medical attention, if necessary.
Take copy of label and MSDS to physician or other health professional with victim(s).
5. FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES
FLASH POINT: Not applicable.
NFPA RATING
AUTOIGNITION TEMPERATURE: Not applicable. FLAMMABILITY
FLAMMABLE LIMITS (in air by volume, %):
Lower (LEL): Not applicable.
0
Upper (UEL): Not applicable.
FIRE EXTINGUISHING MATERIALS: Non-flammable, inert gas. HEALTH 0 0 REACTIVITY
Use extinguishing media appropriate for surrounding fire.
UNUSUAL FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS: Nitrogen does not
burn; however, containers, when involved in fire, may rupture or burst
in the heat of the fire. OTHER
NITROGEN - N2 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: JUNE 1, 1998
PAGE 2 OF 6
5. FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES (Continued)
Explosion Sensitivity to Mechanical Impact: Not Sensitive.
Explosion Sensitivity to Static Discharge: Not Sensitive.
SPECIAL FIRE-FIGHTING PROCEDURES: Structural fire-fighters must wear Self-Contained Breathing
Apparatus and full protective equipment.
6. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
LEAK RESPONSE: Evacuate immediate area. Uncontrolled releases should be responded to by trained
personnel using pre-planned procedures. Proper protective equipment should be used. In case of a leak, clear
the affected area, protect people, and respond with trained personnel.
Minimum Personal Protective Equipment should be Level B: Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus. Locate
and seal the source of the leaking gas. Allow the gas, which is lighter than air to dissipate. Monitor the
surrounding area for oxygen. The atmosphere must have at least 19.5 percent oxygen before personnel can be
allowed in the area without Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus.
If leaking incidentally from the cylinder or its valve, contact your supplier.
7. HANDLING and USE
Nitrogen may be supplied by pipeline at pressures up to 600 psig.
WORK PRACTICES AND HYGIENE PRACTICES: Be aware of any signs of dizziness or fatigue; exposures to
fatal concentrations of Nitrogen could occur without any significant warning symptoms, due to oxygen deficiency.
STORAGE AND HANDLING PRACTICES: Cylinders should be stored upright and be firmly secured to prevent
falling or being knocked-over. Cylinders can be stored in the open, but in such cases, should be protected
against extremes of weather and from the dampness of the ground to prevent rusting. Cylinders should be
stored in dry, well-ventilated areas away from sources of heat, ignition and direct sunlight. Keep storage area
clear of materials which can burn. Do not allow area where cylinders are stored to exceed 52°C (125°F). Store
containers away from heavily trafficked areas and emergency exits. Store away from process and production
areas, away from elevators, building and room exits or main aisles leading to exits. Protect cylinders against
physical damage.
Use a check valve or other protective device in the discharge line to prevent hazardous backflow. Never tamper
with pressure relief valves and cylinders.
Keep the smallest amount necessary on-site at any one time. Full and empty cylinders should be segregated.
Use a first-in, first-out inventory systems to prevent full containers from being stored for long periods of time.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR HANDLING GAS CYLINDERS: Compressed gases can present significant
safety hazards. The following rules are applicable to work situations in which cylinders are being used.
Before Use: Move cylinders with a suitable hand-truck. Do not drag, slide or roll cylinders. Do not drop
cylinders or permit them to strike each other. Secure cylinders firmly. Leave the valve protection cap (where
provided) in-place until cylinder is ready for use.
During Use: Use designated CGA fittings and other support equipment. Do not use adapters. Do not heat
cylinder by any means to increase the discharge rate of the product from the cylinder. Do not use oils or grease
on gas-handling fittings or equipment. Immediately contact the supplier if there are any difficulties associated
with operating cylinder valve. Never insert an object (e.g wrench, screwdriver, pry bar, etc.) into valve cap
openings. Doing so may damage valve, causing a leak to occur. Use an adjustable strap wrench to remove
over-tight or rusted caps. Never strike an arc, on a compressed gas cylinder or make a cylinder part of and
electric circuit.
After Use: Close main cylinder valve. Replace valve protection cap. Mark empty cylinders “EMPTY”.
NOTE: Use only DOT or ASME code containers designed for gas storage. Close valve after each use and when
empty.
STANDARD VALVE CONNECTIONS FOR U.S. AND CANADA: Use the proper CGA connections, DO NOT
USE ADAPTERS:
THREADED: 0-3000 psig CGA 580
3001-5500 psig CGA 680
5501-7500 psig CGA 677
PIN-INDEXED YOKE: 0-3000 psig CGA 960 (Medical Use)
ULTRA HIGH INTEGRITY: 0-3000 psig CGA 718
NITROGEN - N2 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: JUNE 1, 1998
PAGE 3 OF 6
7. HANDLING and USE (Continued)
PROTECTIVE PRACTICES DURING MAINTENANCE OF CONTAMINATED EQUIPMENT: Follow practices
indicated in Section 6 (Accidental Release Measures). Make certain application equipment is locked and tagged-
out safely. Always use product in areas where adequate ventilation is provided.
8. EXPOSURE CONTROLS - PERSONAL PROTECTION
VENTILATION AND ENGINEERING CONTROLS: Use with adequate ventilation. Local exhaust ventilation is
preferred, because it prevents chemical dispersion into the work place by eliminating it at its source. If
appropriate, install automatic monitoring equipment to detect the level of oxygen.
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION: Maintain oxygen levels above 19.5% in the workplace. Use supplied air
respiratory protection if oxygen levels are below 19.5% or during emergency response to a release of Nitrogen.
If respiratory protection is required, follow the requirements of the Federal OSHA Respiratory Protection
Standard (29 CFR 1910.134), or equivalent State standards.
EYE PROTECTION: Safety glasses.
HAND PROTECTION: Wear gloves when handling cylinders of Nitrogen. Otherwise, wear glove protection
appropriate to the specific operation for which Nitrogen is used.
BODY PROTECTION: Use body protection appropriate for task. Safety shoes are recommended when handling
cylinders.
9. PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
GAS DENSITY @ 0°C (32°F) and 1 atm: .072 lbs/cu ft (1.153 kg/m3)
BOILING POINT: -195.8°C (-320.4°F)
FREEZING/MELTING POINT @ 10 psig: -210°C (-345.8°F)
SPECIFIC GRAVITY (air = 1) @ 21.1°C (70°F): 0.906 pH: Not applicable.
SOLUBILITY IN WATER vol/vol @ 0°C (32°F) and 1 atm: 0.023 MOLECULAR WEIGHT: 28.01
EVAPORATION RATE (nBuAc = 1): Not applicable. EXPANSION RATIO: Not applicable.
ODOR THRESHOLD: Not applicable. Odorless. SPECIFIC VOLUME (ft3/lb): 13.8
VAPOR PRESSURE @ (21.1°C) 70°F psig: Not applicable.
COEFFICIENT WATER/OIL DISTRIBUTION: Not applicable.
APPEARANCE AND COLOR: Nitrogen is a colorless, odorless gas.
HOW TO DETECT THIS SUBSTANCE (warning properties): There are no unusual warning properties
associated with a release of Nitrogen.
10. STABILITY and REACTIVITY
STABILITY: Normally stable in gaseous state.
DECOMPOSITION PRODUCTS: None.
MATERIALS WITH WHICH SUBSTANCE IS INCOMPATIBLE: Titanium is the only element that will burn in
Nitrogen. Lithium reacts slowly with Nitrogen at ambient temperatures.
HAZARDOUS POLYMERIZATION: Will not occur.
CONDITIONS TO AVOID: Contact with incompatible materials. Cylinders exposed to high temperatures or
direct flame can rupture or burst.
11. TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION
TOXICITY DATA: There are no specific toxicology data for Nitrogen. Nitrogen is a simple asphyxiant, which acts
to displace oxygen in the environment.
SUSPECTED CANCER AGENT: Nitrogen is not found on the following lists: FEDERAL OSHA Z LIST, NTP,
CAL/OSHA, IARC; therefore it is not considered to be, nor suspected to be a cancer-causing agent by these
agencies.
IRRITANCY OF PRODUCT: Not applicable.
SENSITIZATION OF PRODUCT: Nitrogen is not a sensitizer.
NITROGEN - N2 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: JUNE 1, 1998
PAGE 4 OF 6
11. TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION (Continued)
REPRODUCTIVE TOXICITY INFORMATION: Listed below is information concerning the effects Nitrogen on
the human reproductive system.
Mutagenicity: Nitrogen is not expected to cause mutagenic effects in humans.
Embryotoxicity: Nitrogen is not expected to cause embryotoxic effects in humans.
Teratogenicity: Nitrogen is not expected to cause teratogenic effects in humans.
Reproductive Toxicity: Nitrogen is not expected to cause adverse reproductive effects in humans.
A mutagen is a chemical which causes permanent changes to genetic material (DNA) such that the changes will
propagate through generation lines. An embryotoxin is a chemical which causes damage to a developing embryo
(i.e. within the first eight weeks of pregnancy in humans), but the damage does not propagate across
generational lines. A teratogen is a chemical which causes damage to a developing fetus, but the damage does
not propagate across generational lines. A reproductive toxin is any substance which interferes in any way with
the reproductive process.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS AGGRAVATED BY EXPOSURE: Pre-existing respiratory conditions may be
aggravated by over-exposure to Nitrogen.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO PHYSICIANS: Treat symptoms and reduce over-exposure.
BIOLOGICAL EXPOSURE INDICES (BEIs): Currently, Biological Exposure Indices (BEIs) are not applicable
for Nitrogen.
12. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
ENVIRONMENTAL STABILITY: Nitrogen occurs naturally in the atmosphere. The gas will be dissipated rapidly
in well-ventilated areas.
EFFECT OF MATERIAL ON PLANTS or ANIMALS: Any adverse effect on animals would be related to oxygen
deficient environments. No adverse effect is anticipated to occur to plant-life, except for frost produced in the
presence of rapidly expanding gases.
EFFECT OF CHEMICAL ON AQUATIC LIFE: No evidence is currently available on Nitrogen’s effects on
aquatic life.
13. DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS
PREPARING WASTES FOR DISPOSAL: Waste disposal must be in accordance with appropriate Federal,
State, and local regulations. Return cylinders with any residual product to Air Liquide. Do not dispose of locally.
For emergency disposal, secure the cylinder and slowly discharge the gas to the atmosphere in a well-ventilated
area or outdoors.
14. TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
THIS MATERIAL IS HAZARDOUS AS DEFINED BY 49 CFR 172.101 BY THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION.
PROPER SHIPPING NAME: Nitrogen, compressed
HAZARD CLASS NUMBER and DESCRIPTION: 2.2 (Non-Flammable Gas)
UN IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: UN 1066
PACKING GROUP: Not applicable.
DOT LABEL(S) REQUIRED: Non-Flammable Gas
NORTH AMERICAN EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK NUMBER (1996): 121
MARINE POLLUTANT: Nitrogen is not classified by the DOT as a Marine Pollutant (as defined by 49 CFR
172.101, Appendix B).
SPECIAL SHIPPING INFORMATION: Cylinders should be transported in a secure position, in a well-ventilated
vehicle. The transportation of compressed gas cylinders in automobiles or in closed-body vehicles present
serious safety hazards and should be discouraged.
NOTE: Shipment of compressed gas cylinders which have not been filled with the owners consent is a violation
of Federal law (49 CFR, Part 173.301 (b).
TRANSPORT CANADA TRANSPORTATION OF DANGEROUS GOODS REGULATIONS: THIS MATERIAL
IS CONSIDERED AS DANGEROUS GOODS. Use the above information for the preparation of Canadian
Shipments.
NITROGEN - N2 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: JUNE 1, 1998
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15. REGULATORY INFORMATION
SARA REPORTING REQUIREMENTS: Nitrogen is not subject to the reporting requirements of Sections 302,
304 and 313 of Title III of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act.
SARA THRESHOLD PLANNING QUANTITY: Not applicable.
TSCA INVENTORY STATUS: Nitrogen is listed on the TSCA Inventory.
CERCLA REPORTABLE QUANTITY (RQ): Not applicable.
OTHER U.S. FEDERAL REGULATIONS:
• Generally recognized as safe (GRAS), as a direct human food ingredient when used as a propellant, aerating
agent and gas, per 21, CFR, 184.1540. Nitrogen NF is regulated by the FDA as a prescription drug.
• Depending on specific operations involving the use of Nitrogen, the regulations of the Process Safety
Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals may be applicable (29 CFR 1910.119). Under this regulation
Nitrogen is not listed in Appendix A.
• Nitrogen does not contain any Class I or Class II ozone depleting chemicals (40 CFR part 82).
• Nitrogen is not listed as a Regulated Substance, per 40 CFR, Part 68, of the Risk Management for Chemical
Releases.
OTHER CANADIAN REGULATIONS: Nitrogen is categorized as a Controlled Product, Hazard Class A, as per
the Controlled Product Regulations.
STATE REGULATORY INFORMATION: Nitrogen is covered under the following specific State regulations:
Alaska - Designated Toxic and Hazardous Minnesota - List of Hazardous Pennsylvania - Hazardous Substance List:
Substances: No. Substances: No. Nitrogen.
California - Permissible Exposure Limits Missouri - Employer Information/Toxic Rhode Island - Hazardous Substance List:
for Chemical Contaminants: Nitrogen. Substance List: No. Nitrogen.
Florida - Substance List: No. New Jersey - Right to Know Hazardous Texas - Hazardous Substance List: No.
Illinois - Toxic Substance List: No. Substance List: Nitrogen. West Virginia - Hazardous Substance List:
Kansas - Section 302/313 List: No. North Dakota - List of Hazardous No.
Massachusetts - Substance List: No. Chemicals, Reportable Quantities: No. Wisconsin - Toxic and Hazardous
Substances: No.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65: Nitrogen is not on the California Proposition 65 lists.
16. OTHER INFORMATION
MIXTURES: When two or more gases or liquefied gases are mixed, their hazardous properties may combine to create
additional, unexpected hazards. Obtain and evaluate the safety information for each component before you produce the
mixture. Consult an Industrial Hygienist or other trained person when you make your safety evaluation of the end
product. Remember, gases and liquids have properties which can cause serious injury or death.
Further information about Nitrogen can be found in the following pamphlets published by: Compressed Gas Association
Inc. (CGA), 1725 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1004, Arlington, VA 22202-4102. Telephone: (703) 412-0900.
G-10.1 “Commodity Specification for Nitrogen”
P-1 “Safe Handling of Compressed Gases in Containers”
P-9 “Inert Gases, Argon, Nitrogen and Helium”
P-14 “Accident Prevention in Oxygen-Rich, Oxygen-Deficient Atmospheres”
SB-2 “Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres”
AV-1 “Safe Handling and Storage of Compressed Gases”
“Handbook of Compressed Gases”
PREPARED BY: CHEMICAL SAFETY ASSOCIATES, Inc.
9163 Chesapeake Drive, San Diego, CA 92123-1002
619/565-0302
Fax on Demand: 1-800/231-1366
This Material Safety Data Sheet is offered pursuant to OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard, 29 CFR, 1910.1200. Other government
regulations must be reviewed for applicability to Nitrogen. To the best of Air Liquide America Corporation’s knowledge, the information contained
herein is reliable and accurate as of this date; however, accuracy, suitability or completeness are not guaranteed and no warranties of any type,
either express or implied, are provided. The information contained herein relates only to this specific product. If Nitrogen is combined with other
materials, all component properties must be considered. Data may be changed from time to time. Be sure to consult the latest edition.
NITROGEN - N2 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: JUNE 1, 1998
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