Emergency Response Guide No. 121 for GASES - INERT


Source: Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
POTENTIAL HAZARDS

HEALTH
  • Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation without warning.
  • Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground.
FIRE OR EXPLOSION
  • Non-flammable gases.
  • Containers may explode when heated.
  • Ruptured cylinders may rocket.
PUBLIC SAFETY

  • CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.
  • As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.
  • Keep unauthorized personnel away.
  • Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
  • Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks).
  • Ventilate closed spaces before entering.
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
  • Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
  • Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection.
EVACUATION
Large Spill
  • Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 feet).
Fire
  • If tank, rail car or tank truck is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE

FIRE
  • Use extinguishing agent suitable for type of surrounding fire.
  • Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk.
  • Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.
Fire involving Tanks
  • Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles.
  • Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.
  • Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur.
  • Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.
  • ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire.
SPILL OR LEAK
  • Do not touch or walk through spilled material.
  • Stop leak if you can do it without risk.
  • Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material.
  • Do not direct water at spill or source of leak.
  • If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid.
  • Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.
  • Allow substance to evaporate.
  • Ventilate the area.
FIRST AID
  • Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves.
  • Move victim to fresh air.
  • Call 911 or emergency medical service.
  • Give artificial respiration if victim is not breathing.
  • Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.
  • Keep victim calm and warm.