SHE Code 3: Safe Use of Cryogenic

Materials Safety, Health and Environment

(SHE) Group

Managers of staff, visiting scientists; STFC site tenants, and those responsible for contractors on STFC sites who may use or be exposed to:

a) cryogenic materials; or

b) work in areas where cryogens are used.

Who should use this presentation & read the code

STFC Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) Group

SHE Code 3: “Safe Use of Cryogenic Materials”

Why a Safe Use of Cryogens Code?

• Many STFC research facilities use cryogenic materials for cooling equipment or samples.

• Cryogenic materials can result in cold contact burns, asphyxiation, explosion from pressure build up, embrittlement of materials etc.

• Use of cryogenic materials has resulted in fatalities through asphyxiation at a number of UK establishments.

• The use of cryogens can expose people not directly involved in their use to serious risk.

Key points

• Risk Assessment for use of cryogenic materials, including oxygen depletion calculations, must be carried out prior to their use.

• If identified by the Risk Assessment, adequate oxygen depletion monitoring systems should be in place prior to first use, and thereafter regularly maintained and serviced.

• Safe methods of work are developed and training given for the cryogens used.

Key points• Appropriate clothing and PPE is worn. • Risk Assessments must consider action in the

event of an unintended release. • Adequate ventilation to areas containing

cryogenic materials should be ensured.• Ensure that there are suitable control measures

in place if there is a potential for any lone working with cryogenic materials.

• This code does not address the design of containers for liquefied gases or transfer lines and pipework.

The training detailed in the code:- Cryogenic Safety Course

Can be booked by calling your local SHE training contacts: DL/RAL 8288; UKATC 8325.

This training will need to be supplemented by 1:1 practical instruction, from a competent person, of the equipment to be used.

For help or advice with this code contact your local SHE Group

SHE Training