For the following RAE Part Numbers:
MATERIAL SAFETY
600-0079-000, 600-0123-000
DATA SHEET
Prepared to U.S. OSHA, CMA, ANSI and Canadian WHMIS Standards
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
CHEMICAL NAME; CLASS: ARGON
SYNONYMS: Not applicable.
CHEMICAL FAMILY NAME: Inert Gas
FORMULA: Ar
Document Number: 50004
Note: This Material Safety Data Sheet is for Argon supplied in cylinders with 33 cubic feet (935 liters) or less gas capacity (DOT - 39 cylinders). For
Argon in large cylinders refer to Document Number 10016
PRODUCT USE: Calibration of Monitoring and
Research Equipment
SUPPLIER/MANUFACTURER'S NAME: CALGAZ
ADDRESS: 821 Chesapeake Drive
Cambridge, MD 21613
EMERGENCY PHONE: CHEMTREC: 1-800-424-9300
BUSINESS PHONE: 1-410-228-6400
General MSDS Information: 1-713/868-0440
Fax on Demand: 1-800/231-1366
2. COMPOSITION and INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS
CHEMICAL NAME CAS # mole % EXPOSURE LIMITS IN AIR
ACGIH-TLV OSHA-PEL NIOSH OTHER
TWA STEL TWA STEL IDLH
ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm
Argon 7440-37-1 99.98% There are no specific exposure limits for Argon. Argon is a simple asphyxiant (SA). Oxygen levels
should be maintained above 19.5%.
None of the trace impurities in this product contribute significantly to the hazards associated with the
Maximum Impurities < 0.02%
product. All hazard information pertinent to this product 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. See Section 16 for Definitions of Terms Used.
NOTE (1): ALL WHMIS required information is included in appropriate sections based on the ANSI Z400.1-1998 format. This product has been classified in
accordance with the hazard criteria of the CPR and the MSDS contains all the information required by the CPR.
3. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Argon is a colorless, odorless gas. The main health hazard associated with overexposure of this gas is asphyxiation, by displacement
of oxygen. This gas presents no hazard of flammability or reactivity.
SYMPTOMS OF OVER-EXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant H A Z A R D O U S M A T E R IA L ID E N T IF IC A T IO N S Y S T E M
route of over-exposure for this gas is by inhalation.
HEALTH HAZARD 0
(B L U E )
INHALATION: Due to the small size of an individual cylinder of this product, no unusual
health effects form exposure to the product are anticipated under routine circumstances
of use. If this product is released in a small, poorly ventilated area (i.e. an enclosed or
confined space), an oxygen-deficient environment may occur. Individuals breathing such F L A M M A B IL IT Y H A Z A R D 0
(R E D )
an atmosphere may experience symptoms which include headaches, ringing in ears,
dizziness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, and depression of all the
senses.
P H Y S IC A L H A Z A R D (Y E L L O W ) 0
Under some circumstances of over-exposure, death may occur, due to the displacement
of oxygen. The following effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows:
P R O T E C T IV E E Q U IP M E N T
OXYGEN
CONCENTRATION SYMPTOM OF EXPOSURE EYE S HANDS BO DY
R E S P IR A T O R Y
12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increased, muscular
coordination slightly disturbed. S ee S ec tio n 8
10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset, abnormal fatigue, disturbed
respiration. F o r R o u tin e In d u s tria l U s e a n d H a n d lin g A p p lic a tio n s
6-10% Oxygen: Nausea and vomiting, collapse or loss of
consciousness.
Below 6%: Convulsive movements, possible respiratory collapse, and death.
HEALTH EFFECTS OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE: An Explanation in Lay Terms. Over-exposure to Argon may cause the following health
effects:
ACUTE: Due to the small size of the individual cylinder of this product, no unusual health effects from exposure to the product are anticipated
under routine circumstances of use. 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: Chronic exposure to oxygen-deficient atmospheres (below 18% oxygen in air) may effect the heart and nervous system.
TARGET ORGANS: ACUTE: Respiratory system. CHRONIC: Heart, central nervous system.
4 FIRST-AID MEASURES
RESCUERS SHOULD NOT ATTEMPT TO RETRIEVE VICTIMS OF EXPOSURE TO THIS PRODUCT WITHOUT
ADEQUATE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT.
No unusual health effects are anticipated after exposure to this product, due to the small cylinder size. If any adverse symptom develops after over-
exposure to this product, 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) who experience any adverse effect after over-exposure to this product 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).
MEDICAL CONDITIONS AGGRAVATED BY EXPOSURE: None known.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO PHYSICIANS: Treat symptoms and reduce over-exposure.
ARGON - Ar MSDS - 50004 EFFECTIVE DATE: MAY 5, 2008
PAGE 1 OF 4
5. FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES
FLASH POINT: Not applicable.
AUTOIGNITION TEMPERATURE: Not applicable. NFPA RATING
FLAMMABLE LIMITS (in air by volume, %): FLAMMABILITY
Lower (LEL): Not applicable.
Upper (UEL): Not applicable.
0
FIRE EXTINGUISHING MATERIALS: Non-flammable, inert gas. Use extinguishing media
0
appropriate for surrounding fire. 0
HEALTH REACTIVITY
UNUSUAL FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS: Argon does not burn; however, containers,
when involved in fire, may rupture or burst in the heat of the fire.
Explosion Sensitivity to Mechanical Impact: Not Sensitive.
Explosion Sensitivity to Static Discharge: Not Sensitive.
OTHER
SPECIAL FIRE-FIGHTING PROCEDURES: Structural fire-fighters must wear Self-Contained
Breathing Apparatus and full protective equipment.
6. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
LEAK RESPONSE: Due to the small size and content of the cylinder, an accidental release of this product presents significantly less risk of an
Oxygen deficient environment and other safety hazards than a similar release from a larger cylinder. However, as with any chemical release,
extreme caution must be used during emergency response procedures. In the event of a release in which the atmosphere is unknown, and in
which other chemicals are potentially involved, evacuate immediate area. Such 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.
Allow the gas, which is heavier than air to dissipate. If necessary, monitor the surrounding area (and the original area of the release) for oxygen.
Oxygen levels must be above 19.5% before non-emergency personnel are allowed to re-enter area.
If leaking incidentally from the cylinder or its valve, contact your supplier
7. HANDLING and USE
WORK PRACTICES AND HYGIENE PRACTICES: Be aware of any signs of dizziness or fatigue; exposures to fatal concentrations of this product
could occur without any significant warning symptoms, due to oxygen deficiency.
STORAGE AND HANDLING PRACTICES: Cylinders should be firmly secured to prevent falling or being knocked-over. Cylinders must be
protected from the environment, and preferably kept at room temperature approximately 21癈, 70癋. Cylinders should be stored in dry, well-
ventilated areas away from sources of heat, ignition and direct sunlight. Protect cylinders against physical damage.
Full and empty cylinders should be segregated. Use a first-in, first-out inventory system to prevent full containers from being stored for long periods
of time. These cylinders are not refillable. WARNING! Do not refill DOT 39 cylinders. To do so may cause personal injury or property
damage.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR HANDLING GAS CYLINDERS: WARNING! Compressed gases can present significantly safety hazards. During
cylinder use, use equipment designed for these specific cylinders. Ensure all lines and equipment are rated for proper service pressure.
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: No special ventilation systems or engineering controls are needed under normal
circumstances of use. As with all chemicals, use this product in well-ventilated areas.
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION: No special respiratory protection is required under normal circumstances of use. Use supplied air respiratory
protection if Oxygen levels are below 19.5%, or unknown, during emergency response to a release of this product. If respiratory protection is
needed, use only protection authorized in the U.S. Federal OSHA Standard (29 CFR 1910.134), applicable U.S. State regulations, or the Canadian
CSA Standard Z94.4-93 and applicable standards of Canadian Provinces. Oxygen levels below 19.16.33% are considered IDLH by OSHA. In
such atmospheres, use of a full-facepiece pressure/demand SCBA or a full facepiece, supplied air respirator with auxiliary self-contained air supply
is required under OSHA's Respiratory Protection Standard (1910.134-1998).
EYE PROTECTION: Safety glasses. If necessary, refer to U.S. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.133 or appropriate Canadian Standards.
HAND PROTECTION: No special protection is needed under normal circumstances of use. If necessary, refer to U.S. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.138
or appropriate Standards of Canada.
BODY PROTECTION: No special protection is needed under normal circumstances of use. If a hazard of injury to the feet exists due to falling
objects, rolling objects, where objects may pierce the soles of the feet or where employee's feet may be exposed to electrical hazards, use foot
protection, as described in U.S. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.136.
9. PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
3
GAS DENSITY @ 70癋 (21.1癈) and 1 atm: 0.103 lbs/cu ft (1.650 kg/m )
BOILING POINT 癋 @ 1 atm: -302癋 (-185.9癈)
FREEZING/MELTING POINT (@ 10 psig): -308.9癋 (-189.2癈)
SPECIFIC GRAVITY (air = 1) @ 70癋 (21.1癈): 1.38 pH: Not applicable.
SOLUBILITY IN WATER vol/vol at 32癋(0癈) and 1 atm: 0.056 MOLECULAR WEIGHT: 39.95
EVAPORATION RATE (nBuAc = 1): Not applicable. EXPANSION RATIO: Not applicable.
3
ODOR THRESHOLD: Not applicable. Odorless. SPECIFIC VOLUME (ft /lb): 9.7
VAPOR PRESSURE @ 70癋 (21.1癈) psig: Not applicable.
COEFFICIENT WATER/OIL DISTRIBUTION: Not applicable.
APPEARANCE, ODOR AND COLOR: This product is a colorless, odorless gas.
HOW TO DETECT THIS SUBSTANCE (warning properties): There are no unusual warning properties associated with a release of this product.
10. STABILITY and REACTIVITY
STABILITY: Normally stable, inert gas.
DECOMPOSITION PRODUCTS: None.
MATERIALS WITH WHICH SUBSTANCE IS INCOMPATIBLE: None. Argon is an inert gas.
HAZARDOUS POLYMERIZATION: Will not occur.
CONDITIONS TO AVOID: Avoid exposing cylinders to extremely high temperatures, which could cause the cylinders to rupture or
burst.
11. TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION
TOXICITY DATA: The following data are for Argon:
Standard animal toxicity values are not available. Male rats were exposed for 6 days to 20% oxygen and 80% Argon at 1 atmosphere ambient
pressure. No significant changes in blood cell counts or bone marrow were observed. Other animal studies concern the deficiency of (hypoxia) or
the narcotic effects of various pressures of Argon, the effects of increased Argon pressures on the central nervous system and decompression
sickness.
SUSPECTED CANCER AGENT: Argon is not found on the following lists: FEDERAL OSHA Z LIST, NTP, CAL/OSHA, IARC, and therefore is not
considered to be, nor suspected to be a cancer-causing agent by these agencies.
IRRITANCY OF PRODUCT: Argon is not irritating; however, contact with rapidly expanding gases can cause frostbite to exposed tissue.
ARGON - Ar MSDS - 50004 EFFECTIVE DATE: MAY 5, 2008
PAGE 2 OF 4
11. TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION (continued)
SENSITIZATION OF PRODUCT: Argon is not a sensitizer.
REPRODUCTIVE TOXICITY INFORMATION: Listed below is information concerning the effects Argon on the human reproductive system.
Mutagenicity: Argon has not been reported to cause mutagenic effects in humans.
Embryotoxicity: Argon has not been reported to cause embryotoxic effects in humans.
Teratogenicity: Argon has not been reported to cause teratogenic effects in humans.
Reproductive Toxicity: Argon has not been reported 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.
BIOLOGICAL EXPOSURE INDICES (BEIs): Currently, Biological Exposure Indices (BEIs) have not been determined for Argon.
12. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
ENVIRONMENTAL STABILITY: Argon occurs naturally in the atmosphere. The gas will be dissipated rapidly in well-ventilated areas.
EFFECT OF MATERIAL ON PLANTS or ANIMALS: Due to the small cylinder size, and the inert nature of Argon, no adverse effect on animals or
plants is anticipated if one cylinder of this product is released.
EFFECT OF CHEMICAL ON AQUATIC LIFE: No evidence is currently available on this product'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. Cylinders
with undesired residual product may be safely vented outdoors with the proper regulator. For further information, refer to Section 16 (Other
Information).
14. TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
THIS MATERIAL IS HAZARDOUS AS DEFINED BY 49 CFR 172.101 BY THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION.
PROPER SHIPPING NAME: Argon, compressed
HAZARD CLASS NUMBER and DESCRIPTION: 2.2 (Non-Flammable Gas)
UN IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: UN 1006
PACKING GROUP: Not Applicable
DOT LABEL(S) REQUIRED: Class 2.2 (Non-Flammable Gas)
NORTH AMERICAN EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK NUMBER (2000): 121
MARINE POLLUTANT: Argon 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 can present serious safety hazards. If transporting these cylinders in
vehicles, ensure these cylinders are not exposed to extremely high temperatures (as may occur in an enclosed vehicle on a hot day).
Additionally, the vehicle should be well-ventilated during transportation.
Note: DOT 39 Cylinders ship in a strong outer carton (overpack). Pertinent shipping information goes on the outside of the overpack. DOT 39
Cylinders do not have transportation information on the cylinder itself.
TRANSPORT CANADA TRANSPORTATION OF DANGEROUS GOODS REGULATIONS: This gas is considered as Dangerous Goods, per
regulations of Transport Canada.
PROPER SHIPPING NAME: Argon, compressed
HAZARD CLASS NUMBER and DESCRIPTION: 2.2 (Non-Flammable Gas)
UN IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: UN 1006
PACKING GROUP: Not Applicable
HAZARD LABEL: Class 2.2 (Non-Flammable Gas)
SPECIAL PROVISIONS: 42
EXPLOSIVE LIMIT AND LIMITED QUANTITY INDEX: 0.12
ERAP INDEX: None
PASSENGER CARRYING SHIP INDEX: None
PASSENGER CARRYING ROAD VEHICLE OR PASSENGER CARRYING RAILWAY VEHICLE INDEX: 75
NORTH AMERICAN EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK NUMBER (2000): 121
NOTE: Shipment of compressed gas cylinders via Public Passenger Road Vehicle is a violation of Canadian law (Transport Canada
Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, 1992).
15. REGULATORY INFORMATION
ADDITIONAL U.S. REGULATIONS:
U.S. SARA REPORTING REQUIREMENTS: This gas is not subject to the reporting requirements of Sections 302, 304 and 313 of Title III of the
Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act., as follows:
U.S. SARA THRESHOLD PLANNING QUANTITY: There are no specific Threshold Planning Quantities for this gas. The default Federal MSDS
submission and inventory requirement filing threshold of 10,000 lb (4,540 kg) may apply, per 40 CFR 370.20.
U.S. TSCA INVENTORY STATUS: Argon is listed on the TSCA Inventory.
U.S. CERCLA REPORTABLE QUANTITIES (RQ): Not applicable.
ADDITIONAL U.S. REGULATIONS (continued):
U.S. STATE REGULATORY INFORMATION: Argon is covered under the following specific State regulations:
Alaska - Designated Toxic and Minnesota - List of Hazardous Rhode Island - Hazardous Substance
Hazardous Substances: Argon. Substances: Argon. List: Argon.
California - Permissible Exposure Missouri - Employer Information/Toxic Texas - Hazardous Substance List: No.
Limits for Chemical Contaminants: Substance List: Argon. West Virginia - Hazardous Substance
Argon. New Jersey - Right to Know Hazardous List: No.
Florida - Substance List: Argon. Substance List: Argon. Wisconsin - Toxic and Hazardous
Illinois - Toxic Substance List: Argon. North Dakota - List of Hazardous Substances: No.
Kansas - Section 302/313 List: No. Chemicals, Reportable Quantities:
Massachusetts - Substance List: No.
Argon. Pennsylvania - Hazardous Substance
Michigan - Critical Materials Register: List: Argon.
No.
ARGON - Ar MSDS - 50004 EFFECTIVE DATE: MAY 5, 2008
PAGE 3 OF 4
15. REGULATORY INFORMATION (Continued)
CALIFORNIA SAFE DRINKING WATER AND TOXIC ENFORCEMENT ACT (PROPOSITION 65): Argon is not on the California Proposition 65
lists.
OTHER U.S. FEDERAL REGULATIONS:
?Argon does not contain any Class I or Class II ozone depleting chemicals (40 CFR part 82).
?Argon is not listed as a Regulated Substance, per 40 CFR, Part 68, of the Risk Management for Chemical Accidental Release.
?Argon is not subject to the reporting requirements of Section 112(r) of the Clean Air Act.
?Argon is not listed in Appendix A as a highly hazardous chemical, per 29 CFR 1910.119: Process Safety Management of Highly
Hazardous Chemicals.
ADDITIONAL CANADIAN REGULATIONS:
CANADIAN DSL/NDSL INVENTORY STATUS: Argon on the Canadian DSL Inventory.
CANADIAN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT (CEPA) PRIORITIES SUBSTANCES LISTS: Argon is not on the CEPA Priorities
Substances List.
CANADIAN WHMIS CLASSIFICATION: Argon is categorized as a Controlled Product, Hazard Class A, as per the Controlled Product Regulations.
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.
INFORMATION ABOUT DOT-39 NRC (Non-Refillable Cylinder) PRODUCTS
DOT 39 cylinders ship as hazardous materials when full. Once the cylinders are relieved of pressure (empty) they are not considered
hazardous material or waste. Residual gas in this type of cylinder is not an issue because toxic gas mixtures are prohibited. Calibration gas
mixtures typically packaged in these cylinders are Nonflammable n.o.s., UN 1956. A small percentage of calibration gases packaged in DOT
39 cylinders are flammable gas mixtures.
For disposal of used DOT-39 cylinders, it is acceptable to place them in a landfill if local laws permit. Their disposal is no different than that
employed with other DOT containers such as spray paint cans, household aerosols, or disposable cylinders of propane (for camping, torch
etc.). When feasible, we recommended recycling for scrap metal content. CALGAZ will do this for any customer that wishes to return
cylinders to us prepaid. All that is required is a phone call to make arrangements so we may anticipate arrival. Scrapping cylinders involves
some preparation before the metal dealer may accept them. We perform this operation as a service to valued customers who want to
participate.
Further information about Argon 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-11.1 "Commodity Specification for Argon"
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.
PO Box 3519, La Mesa, CA 91944-3519
619/670-0609
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 this product. To the best of CALGAZ 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 this product 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.
ARGON - Ar MSDS - 50004 EFFECTIVE DATE: MAY 5, 2008
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