Bcga 2004 Code of Practice CP 28
Bcga 2004 Code of Practice CP 28
Bcga 2004 Code of Practice CP 28
Revision 1: 2004
BCGA CODE OF PRACTICE CP 28
Vacuum Insulated Tanks of not more
than 1000 litres Volume which are
Static Installations at User Premises
Revision 1: 2004
ISSN 0260-4809
SECTION PAGE
1 Introduction 3
2 Scope 3
3.1 Asphyxiation/Enrichment 4
4.2 Materials 6
4.4 Connections 8
4.5 Cleaning 8
4.6 Markings 9
5 Installation 10
5.1 Siting 10
5.2 Pipework 13
5.3 Installation/Commissioning 14
5.4 Handover 14
Section Page
6 Tank Filling 15
8.1 Requirements 21
8.3 Maintenance 22
8.4 Revalidation 22
10 Records 23
11 References 24
SECTION PAGE
Safety Distances 27
Pressure System:
Relevant Fluid
Danger:
These terms are defined in the Pressure Systems
Examination: Safety Regulations 2000 (5).
Mobile System:
User:
Transportable Pressure
Receptacles
Protective Device:
Competent Person:
Owner:
Major repair Any repair involving hot work or welding on the inner
vessel. It does not include heat treatment.
Access Apron An area between the tank and a road tanker where the
process operating controls on both the tank and the
tanker are accessible to the operator during
filling/discharging. The access apron shall extend
beneath the rear of the tanker and also beyond both
sides of the tanker.
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 The purpose of this Code of Practice is to provide guidance for UK owners, users,
installers and fillers of small static storage installations for liquefied gases
permanently installed at users.
1.2 The Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (5) and the Pressure Equipment
Regulations 1999 (19) have been introduced within the UK under the umbrella of
the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (6). The overall intention of the
Regulations is to prevent the risk of serious injury from the uncontrolled release of
stored energy as a result of failure of the container, or any pressure system
connected to it. It is important to note that the Regulations may not deal with all the
hazards arising from the use of a container and other regulations, such as the Control
of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999 (COSHH) (7), the Chemical
Hazard Information and Packaging Regulations 1994 (CHIP) (8), the Food Additive
Labelling Regulations 1992 (9) and the Personal Protective Equipment at Work
Regulations 1992 (10) may also apply.
1.3 This Code of Practice provides guidance on the application of the Pressure Systems
Safety Regulations 2000 (5) to static vacuum insulated tanks of not more than 1000
litres capacity. The Regulations apply to both new and existing systems.
Those requirements of this Code not covered by the PSSR are not designed to be
retrospective. However, existing equipment should comply with the sections
covering operation and maintenance.
2 SCOPE
2.1 This Code of Practice applies to static, vacuum insulated, liquefied gas tanks in the
size range 5 to 1000 litres capacity, operating at pressures greater than 0.5 bar above
atmospheric pressure requirements for the following gases:
• Nitrogen
• Argon
• Oxygen
• Carbon Dioxide
• Helium
• Nitrous Oxide
(c) Installation
(g) Modifications/repairs
(h) Records
2.2 Tanks covered by this Code typically consist of an inner pressure vessel supported
within an outer jacket. The inner vessel is insulated from the outer jacket by a
vacuum and insulation material. Pipework from the inner vessel passes through the
insulation space to externally mounted valves and fittings.
2.3 This Code does not cover un-pressurised tanks (such as dewars). However, for these
tanks, the sections dealing with safety precautions and operations should be
observed in order to ensure safe working practice. BCGA Code of Practice CP 30
gives information on this subject (23).
2.4 This Code covers the installed static vacuum insulated tank together with fill lines,
control equipment, safety devices, vaporising equipment and their location.
Products within the tanks, if released, can create an atmosphere either enriched, or
deficient, in oxygen.
Product may be stored within these tanks at very low temperatures e.g. liquid
Helium at -269°C.
Severe damage to human tissue can be caused by contact with liquefied gases or
with non-insulated pipes and equipment. (See Appendix 2).
All the safety aspects of handling liquefied gases cannot be adequately covered in
this Code of Practice. The reader is therefore referred to the British Cryoengineering
Society’s Publication, “Cryogenic Safety Manual” (12) for further information.
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (13) require
suitable and sufficient assessments of the risks to health and safety at work and
elimination of such risks where possible. Where significant risk is identified which
cannot be eliminated or practically controlled by means other than personal
protective equipment (PPE), separate documented detailed PPE assessments are
required according to the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992
(10).
Non-absorbent, insulated gloves, made from a suitable material such as leather, must
always be worn when handling anything that is, or has been recently in contact with
the product. The gloves should be a loose fit so that they can easily be removed.
Sleeves should cover ends of the gloves. Gauntlet gloves are not recommended
because liquid can drip into them.
Suitable eye protection such as goggles, or a face visor, shall be used to protect the
eyes and face where spraying or splashing of liquid may occur. Overalls, or similar
type clothing, should be worn. These should preferably be made without open
pockets or turn-ups where liquid could collect. Trousers should be worn outside
boots for the same reason.
If clothing becomes contaminated with oxygen, the wearer should ventilate it for a
minimum of 15 minutes by walking around in a well-ventilated area away from any
sources of ignition, including persons with a lighted cigarette.
EH 40 does not give specific exposure levels for asphyxiant gases (argon, nitrogen
and helium) because they are not substances hazardous to health for the purposes of
COSHH. Paragraphs 57 to 61 of EH 40 give guidance on asphyxiants which
recommends that suitable measures be taken following risk assessment of any
situation where the oxygen content in the workplace varies from the normal.
In practical terms, the industry recommends that any workplace shall be evacuated
when the oxygen concentration falls to 18%. Preventative measures should, of
course, be initiated before the oxygen concentration reaches this low level.
The inner vessel of tanks shall be designed, constructed and tested in accordance
with a recognised design code for this type of tank and its intended use that meets
the requirements of the Pressure Equipment Regulations 1999 (19).
Tanks containing a gas at a pressure of less than 0.5 bar above atmospheric pressure
are excluded from the Pressure Equipment Regulations 1999 (19). However, in order
to comply with Regulation 4 of The Provision and Use of Work Equipment
Regulations 1998 (21), the tank should be properly designed and properly
constructed from suitable material so as to prevent danger. This is best guaranteed
by adherence to a recognised design and construction standard for this type of tank
and its intended use.
A Competent Person shall certify the tank as suitable for the duty within defined
operating limits.
4.2 Materials
4.2.1 All components shall be constructed from materials compatible with the
liquefied gas in service, and with the temperature and pressure conditions to
which they will be subjected.
4.2.2 All materials of construction for tanks which may be used for oxygen or
nitrous oxide service shall be oxygen compatible, including all insulation,
getters, piping, valves, gaskets, seals and instruments.
Tanks will normally be fitted with pipework, valves, pressure gauges, level gauges,
pressure build and product vaporisers and regulators.
Each tank shall have pressure relief devices on both the inner vessel and outer
jacket.
4.3.1 Inner vessels shall be fitted with at least two independent relieving devices,
which may be connected to the same nozzle from the inner vessel.
Typically, a pressure-relief valve backed up by a bursting disc is fitted. As a
minimum:
During normal tank operation at least one of these devices shall have a
capacity and set-point that will prevent the pressure within the vessel
exceeding the maximum allowable working pressure (a 10% momentary
surge is allowable). The combination of both relief devices shall be
sufficient to prevent the test pressure being exceeded in the event of loss of
vacuum combined with the pressure build-up system failing in the open
position.
The relieving devices shall be designed to operate effectively across the full
range of working temperatures.
4.3.3 All pressure relief devices shall be orientated in such a manner as to prevent
the accumulation of water, which could result in incorrect operation.
4.3.4 Outer jackets need not be designed to a pressure vessel design standard, but
they shall be capable of withstanding full vacuum.
4.3.5 Outer jackets shall be fitted with a device to relieve pressure increase in the
event of a leak from the inner vessel. The device shall be set to open at a
pressure of not more than 0.5 bar. The discharge area of the pressure relief
device shall be not less than 0.34 mm2 per litre capacity of the inner vessel
and, in any case, not less than 10 mm diameter.
4.3.6 Any section of pipework containing liquefied gas which can be isolated
shall be protected by a pressure relief device.
4.4 Connections
In certain cases, filling the incorrect fluid into a tank may create an unsafe condition;
therefore liquid fill connections should be different for the following product
categories:
• Nitrogen/Argon
• Oxygen/Medical Oxygen
• Helium
• Carbon Dioxide
• Nitrous Oxide
The following methods of securing the filling connection shall be adopted to ensure
only authorised changes are made.
• For medical oxygen applications the connection shall be silver brazed, welded
or attached by other methods in a manner that prevents removal or would
render the connection unusable if removal was attempted or accomplished.
Further information on this important aspect of safety can be found in EIGA Safety
Information INFO 04/02 (27).
4.5 Cleaning
For tanks and accessories which may be used in oxidising gas service (e.g. oxygen,
nitrous oxide), all surfaces which could come into contact with product shall be
cleaned using a recognised procedure such as BS 6869 (15) or IGC doc 33/97/E
Cleaning of Equipment for Oxygen Service (24). BCGA Technical Report TR3 (22)
gives information about cleaning oxygen system components without the use of
chlorinated solvents.
In addition to markings required by the design standard, the following marks are
required by the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (5) and shall be included
on a corrosion resistant plate permanently attached to the outer jacket:
• Date of Manufacture
• Manufacturer’s Name
• Serial Number
• Design Standard
• Maximum Design Pressure/Maximum Allowable Working Pressure
• Design Temperature
• Water Capacity
• Date of Test
The pressure vessel and associated pipework and fittings shall be inspected and
tested to the levels required by the appropriate design standard in use.
The manufacturer of the tank shall provide sufficient written information concerning
the design, construction, examination, operation and maintenance to ensure
compliance with the Regulations.
a) certification recording the test and conformity with the design standard in
use for each tank (4.7).
4.9.1 Vaporisers
Protection against over pressure shall be installed between any line isolation
valves where liquid or cold vapour can be trapped.
Installation design shall ensure that the risk of pressure relief and vent line
blockage is minimised, and that intended purge and vent operations can be
safely and effectively carried out.
Special consideration needs to be given to carbon dioxide, which forms a
solid when liquid is depressurised.
All vents including those from safety relief devices shall be directed so as to
discharge in a safe place. The vents shall be sited so as to minimise the risk
of impingement on personnel, buildings, structural steelwork, and, in the
case of oxidising gases, any combustible materials.
4.9.5 Insulation
5 INSTALLATION
5.1 Siting
The choice of site shall be agreed between the gas supplier and the user.
Consideration shall be given to the consequences of any liquid spillage from the
tanks and resultant vapour clouds when choosing a location for the tank.
When gas is not being withdrawn, pressure within the tank will gradually increase to
the point where the relief valve will lift. Although the rate of gas discharge is small,
precautions shall be taken to avoid the build up of dangerous atmospheres.
Wherever reasonably practicable, tanks shall be sited outside in the open air.
The tank should be located away from workplace traffic, air intakes, drains and other
underground openings.
Tanks should be sited in a secure area away from sources of heat.
This storage area should be kept clear and access should be restricted to authorised
persons only. The area should be clearly marked and appropriate hazard warning
signs displayed.
Oxidising No naked
Substance flames No Smoking
These signs shall comply with “The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals)
Regulations 1996” (16) and with BS 5499 Part 5 “Graphical symbols and signs.
Safety signs including fire safety signs. Signs with specific safety meanings. (17).
Additionally the access apron for installations containing liquid oxygen or nitrous
oxide shall be of non-combustible material.
or
(a) the installation is within an enclosed space of adequate size such that using
the calculation in Appendix 3 of this Code, the release of gas will not result
in an atmosphere with an oxygen concentration outside the limits of 18%
and 25%, or more than 0.5% carbon dioxide in the case of tanks containing
liquid carbon dioxide, or more than 0.01% nitrous oxide in the case of tanks
containing liquid nitrous oxide.
or
(b) The exhaust of the main vessel pressure relief valves are piped away to a
fixed safe external location.
or
(c) An additional pressure control device is fitted (at a setting less than safety
valve setting) connected via the vent valve, with the gas directed to a safe
area. The vent valve shall remain open when this measure has been
adopted. Any additional gas vent lines shall also be piped to a safe area.
A road tanker, when in position for filling from or discharging to the fill
connection, should be in the open air. Tanker operators shall have easy
access to and from the fill connection.
(c) At or above ground level, as far as is practicable away from normal work
locations.
(d) Below ground level as far as is practicable away from normal work
locations.
Detector displays and warning signs shall be sited so that they are clearly
visible to personnel before entering the affected area.
5.2 Pipework
Where appropriate pipe work shall be identified and valves marked for function.
(a) A Competent Person shall have validated that the tank to be installed is fit
for its purpose for a defined period.
(b) The User shall ensure the pressure system has an appropriate Written
Scheme of Examination for that installation.
The installer or commissioner of the supply system shall be responsible for ensuring
that:
• The appropriate pressure and leak tests have been carried out and
documented.
• A check has been made that the installation conforms to the process and
instrumentation diagram.
• A visual check has been made to ensure that back-feed from the system into
the container, e.g. from high-pressure gas cylinders, is not possible.
• A check has been made that liquefied gas cannot become trapped in any
part of the system not protected by thermal relief devices or reach parts of
the system not designed for low temperature use.
• A check has been made that the correct safety devices are fitted.
• A check has been made that all warning and identification labels are clearly
displayed and that they are correct for the product being stored.
5.4 Handover
The owner or the installer shall be responsible for the handover to the user.
6 TANK FILLING
6.1.1 All product supply vehicles shall be provided with a positive mechanical
means of preventing tow-away accidents.
6.1.2 All product supply vehicles in CO2 service, shall have hose restraining
devices and consideration shall be given for other services.
6.1.3 The gas supplier shall check that his vehicle can gain access to fill the tank
safely.
(a) Ensure that the user understands his responsibilities under the Pressure
Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (5) and has made arrangements for them
to be fulfilled.
(b) Establish and agree with the user procedures for the safe filling of the tank.
6.2.2 When a tank is to be filled for the first time, the following checks shall be
made in addition to those required in Section 6.3:
a) Check that all appropriate documentation for the particular tank and
accessories is available.
b) Check that valves, relief devices and accessories are appropriate for the
intended service, comply with the process flow diagram and are appropriately
marked.
6.2.4 Measuring and control devices shall be checked for correct operation and
adjusted where appropriate.
6.3.1.1 Check that the tank and accessories are in good condition and free from
damage.
6.3.1.2 Check that the correct labels are clearly displayed and appropriate for the
products.
6.3.1.3 Check that any contents indicator is correct for the intended service
installed.
6.3.1.4 Check that the tank has a legible data plate attached.
6.3.1.5 Check the fill connection is appropriate for the product being filled.
The above pre-fill checks need not be undertaken where tanks specially
designed to be remotely filled are installed, providing the tanks are owned,
maintained, examined and exclusively filled by the gas supply company and
appropriate safety pre-fill checks are undertaken that confirm the pressure
integrity of the system.
6.3.2 The following basic procedures should be carried out for all filling
operations:
6.3.2.1 Tanks shall not be overfilled. Overfilling reduces holding time and results
in premature safety valve lifting. Where extended fill lines are used,
allowance shall be made for the volume of liquid in the fill line to ensure
that the tank cannot be overfilled.
6.3.2.2 Where appropriate the fill hose(s) should be purged prior to filling.
6.3.2.3 The tank should be filled through the fill or liquid valve.
6.3.2.4 Where a try-cock is used as a method of determining that a tank is full, gas
vented should be minimised and directed to a safe location.
6.3.2.5 Where appropriate, after filling, fill hoses shall be isolated and vented
before disconnection. In the case of CO2, liquid should be drained from the
hose before depressurisation to avoid the risk of forming a plug of solid
CO2. Where possible, the tank, pipework, valves and fittings should be
checked for leakage, and that the pressure and level gauges function.
6.3.2.6 Any dust caps etc. shall be refitted to the fill connections.
• Check that the tank is designed for the intended service (special attention
shall be given to this point if the tank is intended for oxidising fluids).
• If it is suspected that the tank may have been contaminated, it shall be cleaned
using a suitable cleaning procedure such as BS 6869 (15).
• Check that the tank connections are correct for the new product and change if
necessary.
• The tank shall be labelled appropriately for the new product and filled in
accordance with Section 6.2.
• The conversion of tanks into medical service shall only be carried out after a
formal risk assessment.
• If the tank is to be used for oxidising fluids, a Competent Person shall review
the previous service and use of the tank to define cleaning and purging
requirements. Following completion of these requirements, the Competent
Person shall verify that the procedures have been carried out correctly before
filling the tank.
a) Purge the tank piping and accessories with an inert gas until the outlet
temperature is close to ambient. The purge gas inlet temperature shall not
exceed the maximum operating temperature of the vessel,
Where a tank is to be taken out of service, e.g. for storage, change of service, repair,
maintenance, scrapping etc., the tank shall be emptied and depressurised. This
process shall be in accordance with a written procedure and the operating company
shall retain a record.
When depressurising and emptying, the valve(s) used shall be checked for
obstruction and, if necessary, the pressure and weight shall be monitored to ensure
that all product has been removed – for example, liquid CO2 will solidify at low
pressures.
If the tank is to be scrapped, it shall be purged with air and labelled accordingly.
If the tank is to be taken into service again later, or for repair involving hot work, the
following additional points shall be considered:
c) Maintenance of positive pressure of less that 0.5 bar of dry, inert gas in the
tank which shall be labelled accordingly.
Emergency procedures should be prepared to cover fire and other hazardous events
such as uncontrolled release of product. The procedures should be readily available
to all personnel involved, regularly practised and periodically checked to ensure that
they are up to date. Examples of emergency actions are given below:
b) Isolate the source of product escape if possible; if not, ensure all personnel
leave the area.
f) For oxygen tanks, shut down all sources of ignition in the area.
7.1 Notices or labels shall be clearly displayed, to be visible at all times, on or near the
tank, particularly at access points, to indicate the following:
Argon
Refrigerated liquid RAs,RFb 9,23,36 1951
Carbon Dioxide
Refrigerated liquid RAs,RFb 9,23,36 2187
Helium
Refrigerated liquid RAs,RFb 9,23,36 1963
Nitrogen
Refrigerated liquid RAs,RFb 9,23,36 1977
Nitrous Oxide
Refrigerated liquid 8,RFb 9,17,36 2201
Oxygen
Refrigerated liquid 8,RFb 9,17,36 1073
All displayed warning signs and labels shall be legible, visible and up-to-date at all
times.
Where the gas in the tank is used either as packaging or propellant gas for foodstuffs
or beverages, the tank shall also be labelled in accordance with the Food Additives
Labelling Regulations 1992 (9). These require the following information additional
to the above:
3) A mark identifying the batch or lot from which the gas came. The letter “L”
shall precede this mark, unless it is clearly distinguishable from other
markings.
8.1 Requirements
In the case of leased equipment, the owner of the installed system may, subject to a
written agreement, discharge some of the duties of the user under the PSSR
Regulations (5) Schedule 2.
a) Visually check that the tank is legibly and durably marked with safe
operating limits and that the mark is clearly visible.
d) Carry out evaporation or vacuum tests where the integrity of the vacuum
interspace is in doubt.
f) Visually check the condition of any vacuum jacket burst disc or plug.
Following the examination the Competent Person shall identify whether any
remedial action is required.
8.3 Maintenance
The requirements of Section 8.1 are in addition to the periodic maintenance required
to maintain the tank in a safe condition which is also a responsibility of the user
under the Regulations.
a) Check the pressure build and gas use regulators for correct settings and
function.
c) Check the condition and function of the liquid level and pressure indicators.
d) Leak test the vessel and all valves, fittings and pipework using an inert gas
or the working medium.
In addition to the requirement for examination and maintenance, the tank shall be
endorsed periodically by a Competent Person, as fit for continued service. (See
BCGA Code CP25 “Revalidation of Cryogenic Static Storage Tanks” (18)). The
revalidation period shall not exceed 20 years.
A “modification” means any change to the inner vessel and its primary protective
devices.
A “major repair” means any repair involving hot-work or welding on the inner
vessel. It does not include heat treatment.
No modification or major repair may be carried out which puts the tank outside the
scope of the design standard or design specification to which it was originally
designed and constructed. Approval of modifications or repairs shall be in
accordance with those for the original construction.
10 RECORDS
The owner of the tank shall hold a copy of the manufacturer’s certificate of
conformity to the design code, standard or specification for each tank.
Where tanks are hired to third parties, the owner shall also retain copies of the
design code, standard or specification used for the manufacturer of the tank.
The owner of the tank shall retain records of periodic examination carried out on the
tank.
The owner of the tank shall retain records of any change of service.
SI 1996: 341 The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations
1996.
BS 5499 Part 5 Graphical symbols and signs. Safety signs including fire safety
signs. Signs with specific safety meanings.
SI 1998: 2306 The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998.
Publications, including revisions, from 2000 onwards are obtainable from EIGA
Website: www.eiga.org
E-mail: [email protected]
NOTE (1) The safety distances are measured from the exposure to:
a) Any point on the storage system where, in normal operation, leakage or spillage can occur, or;
b) The tank outer jacket, or;
c) The vessel nozzles,
which ever gives the greatest safety distance from the tank.
NOTE (2) For offices, canteens, etc. the distances are measured to the nearest opening in the building e.g. windows and doors.
NOTE (3) Ventilator intakes should be at least 1 metre above ground level if within 5 metres of the tank.
NOTE (4) Any door within 3 metres of the tank should be of a self closing type.
NOTE (5) Where tanks are stored or located inside buildings refer to section 5.1.
NOTE (1) The safety distances are measured from the exposure to:
a) Any point on the storage system where, in normal operation, leakage or spillage can occur, or;
b) The tank outer jacket, or;
c) The vessel nozzles,
which ever gives the greatest safety distance from the tank.
NOTE (2) For offices, canteens, etc. the distances are measured to the nearest opening in the building e.g. windows and doors.
NOTE (3) Ventilator intakes should be at least 1 metre above ground level if within 5 metres of the tank.
NOTE (4) Any door within 1 metre of the tank should be of a self closing type.
NOTE (5) Where tanks are stored or located inside buildings refer to section 5.1.
The temperature of liquefied gases varies. The boiling points at 1.013 bar, i.e. the
temperature at which the liquefied gas vaporises, are as follows:
Helium -269°C
Nitrogen -196°C
Argon -186°C
Oxygen -183°C
Carbon Dioxide -78°C(Sublimation point from solid to gas)
Nitrous Oxide -89°C
The effect of extreme cold on tissue is to destroy it, a similar end result to that of heat
exposure, and in like fashion the amount of cold and the duration of contact is crucial. The
destruction of tissue is not so immediately obvious as in the case of burns, since pain is
absent in the frozen stage, and the tissue, although rigid, keeps its normal shape and is not
obviously destroyed. Pain and destruction becomes more apparent as thawing occurs. Those
who have had mild frostbite of fingers or toes will have some idea of the pain on re-warming.
Prevention of contact with very cold liquids is quite vital and those who work in this field
must be aware of the hazard.
Skin Effects
Liquid, vapour or low temperature gas can produce effects on the skin, which will vary in
severity with temperature and the length of exposure. Naked or insufficiently protected parts
of the body coming into contact with un-insulated pipes or vessels may stick fast by virtue of
the freezing of moisture and flesh may be torn in removal. The wearing of wet clothing
should be avoided.
Continued exposure of naked flesh to cold atmospheres can result in frostbite. There is
usually sufficient warning by local pain whilst the freezing action is taking place. Re-
warming with lukewarm water at 42 - 44°C (108 - 111°F) is generally sufficient safeguard
against injury.
Whilst transient and short exposure produces discomfort in breathing, prolonged inhalation of
vapour of cold gas, whether respirable or not, can produce serious effects on the lungs.
Flush the affected areas of skin with copious quantities of tepid water, but do not apply any
form of direct heat, e.g. hot water, room heaters, etc. Move casualty to a warm place (about
22°C; 295K). If medical attention is not immediately available, arrange for the casualty to
be transported to hospital without delay.
• Continue to flush the affected areas of skin with copious quantities of tepid water.
• Protect frozen parts with bulky, dry, sterile dressings. Do not apply too tightly so as
to cause restriction of blood circulation.
• Ensure ambulance crew or hospital is advised of details of accident and first aid
treatment already administered.
• Smoking and alcoholic beverages reduce the blood supply to the affected part and
should be avoided.
The above text has been reproduced with the permission of the British Cryoengineering
Society from its “Cryogenics Safety Manual”, Reference No. ISBN 0-8453-2605-7 (12).
The type of ventilation depends on a multitude of factors such as type of location, gas type,
possible leaks, etc.
Ventilation can be natural or provided by forced ventilation. The design criterion is the
number of air changes per hour.
In locations above ground level with no special ventilation openings, natural ventilation
provides typically 1 change per hour. This is not the case of buildings with windows sealed
with tight seals. For underground rooms with small windows 0.4 changes per hour can be
considered as an average value.
For handling (storing, filling, withdrawal, etc.) transportable cryogenic vessels with non
flammable, non toxic contents in locations above ground level, natural ventilation is generally
sufficient, provided that the room is large enough or that the outdoor area is not enclosed by
walls etc.
An indoor location should have ventilation openings with a total area of 1% of the ground
area. The openings should be positioned diagonally across the room. The density of the gas
should also be taken into consideration (the main opening at the highest point of the location
for gases lighter than air, or at ground level for gases heavier than air).
For more than 2 changes per hour a forced ventilation system is necessary. Different
regulations may recommend or require for different situations a specific number of air
changes per hour, e.g. 5, 10, 20 etc.
In typical situations the number of air changes can be calculated assuming a certain leakage
rate from the vessel pipework and a homogeneous distribution of gas, using the following
formula:
L
Ct = (1− e − nt ) where
Vr n
Ct = gas concentration at time t
L = gas release m³/h
Vr = room volume m³
n = air changes per hour
t = time gas has flowed in hours
L
C∞ = approximately
Vr n
This appendix considers the “worst case” scenario where the entire contents of the vessel are
lost to the room immediately. The resulting O2 concentration in the room may then be
calculated from the following formula:
100 x Vo
Cox = = resulting oxygen concentration %
Vr
= liquid volume capacity of the vessel (m3) x gas expansion factor fg,
Worked Example
To calculate the O2 concentration resulting from spilling 50 litres of liquid oxygen into a
room of 300 m3 volume:
Vr = Room volume = 300 m3
50
Vg = Gas release from vaporised liquid = x 842 = 42 m3
1000
Vo = 0.21 (Vr - Vg ) + Vg
Vent CGA 295 CGA 295 Straight tube CGA 295 SAE J514 - 3/4 CGA 295 -
Nitrogen
JIC
Gas Use BS 341 - 3 BS 341 - 3 Permanently connected BS 341 - 3 SAE J514 - 3/4 BS 341 - 3 -
tube or BS 341 - 3 JIC
Fill ¾” BSPM CGA 295 7/8” BSPM CGA 295 - CGA 295 -
Argon Vent ¾” BSPM CGA 295 Straight tube CGA 295 - CGA 295 -
Gas Use BS 341 - 3 BS 341 - 3 Permanently connected BS 341 - 3 - BS 341 - 3 -
tube or BS 341 - 3
Fill CGA 440 CGA 440 CGA 440 CGA 440 - - -
Oxygen Vent CGA 440 CGA 440 Straight tube CGA 440 - - -
(Industrial) Gas Use BS 341 - 3 BS 341 - 3 Permanently connected BS 341 - 3 - - -
tube or BS 341 - 3
Fill CGA 440 CGA 440 CGA 440 - - - -
Oxygen Vent CGA 440 CGA 440 Straight tube - - - -
(Medical) Gas Use ISO 5145 M24 ISO Permanently connected - - -
tube
Fill ISO32x3.5 BS 341 - 8 Parker coupling - SAE J514 - 3/4 - -
JIC