Highly Toxic Compressed Gases
Toxic gases are those having a health hazard of 3 or 4, as defined by NFPA 704. The toxic effects of a substance can be either acute or chronic. Acute effects involve short-term, high concentrations that can cause irritation, illness, or death. Chronic effects involve continued exposure to a toxic substance over an extended period of time, resulting in serious and irreversible illness.
The quantities of highly toxic gas that can be stored and used on the floor of a building or within a control area is strictly regulated by the VSFPC, and the allowable quantities decrease for every story above ground level.
Examples
- Arsine
- Phosphine
- Phosgene
- Nitric oxide
Precautions
- All highly toxic gases MUST be stored in a continuously, mechanically ventilated gas cabinet, fume hood, or other enclosure (unless otherwise recommended by the supplier). Please contact EHS for guidance or assistance.
- Review the Safety Data Sheet to determine safe use guidelines.
- Order the smallest sized cylinder you can that will support your research, and do not purchase and store spare cylinders.
- New users should consult with EHS before ordering highly toxic gases.