MATERIAL SAFETY
DATA SHEET
Prepared to U.S. OSHA, CMA, ANSI and Canadian WHMIS Standards
1. PRODUCT AND COMPANY INFORMATION
CHEMICAL NAME; CLASS: NON-FLAMMABLE GAS MIXTURE
SILVERSHIELD 15
Containing Hydrogen ( < 5.70%) in a Nitrogen Balance Gas
SYNONYMS: Not Applicable
CHEMICAL FAMILY NAME: Not Applicable
FORMULA: Not Applicable
SILVERSHIELD Precision and Consistenc y Shielding Ga s Mixture s ha ve been specificall y designed to give the best overall results for
welding applications. S p e cial attention has been give n t o lo wering fume emissions, decreasing cleanup, and reducing welding c osts. By
combining these features with strict qualit y control, General Air insures that its customers h a ve t h e highest qualit y product s to m e e t their
welding needs.
PRODUCT USE: Welding Gas Mixture
General Air Service & Supply
MANUFACTURED/SUPPLIED FOR :
1105 Zuni Street
ADDRESS:
Denver, CO 80204
EMERGENCY PHONE: Call Infotrac: 800-535-5053
303-892-7003
BUSINESS PHONE:
General MSDS Information Ask for Safety Officer
SILVERSHIELD 15 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: AUGUST 31, 2005
PAGE 1 OF 8
2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: This is a colorless, odorless gas mixture. The main health hazard associated with
releases of this gas is asphyxiation, by displacement of oxygen. A cylinder rupture hazard exists when this gas
mixture, which is under pressure, is subject to heat or flames.
INHALATION: High concentrations of this gas mixture can cause an oxygen-deficient environment. Individuals
breathing such an atmosphere may experience symptoms which include headaches, ringing in ears, dizziness,
drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, and depression of all the senses. Under some circumstances of
overexposure, death may occur. The effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows:
CONCENTRATION OF OXYGEN OBSERVED EFFECT
12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increase, muscular coordination slightly disturbed.
10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset , abnormal fatigue, disturbed respiration.
6-10% Oxygen: Nausea, vomiting, collapse, or loss of consciousness.
Below 6%: Convulsiv movements, possible respiratory collapse, and death.
e
HEALTH EFFECTS OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE: An Explanation in Lay Terms. Over-exposure to this gas
mixture may cause the following health effects.
ACUTE: The most significant hazard associated with this gas mixture is inhalation of oxygen-deficient atmospheres.
Symptoms of oxygen deficiency include ringing in ears, headaches, shortness of breath, wheezing, dizziness,
indigestion, and nausea. At high concentrations, unconsciousness or death may occur.
CHRONIC: There are currently no known adverse health effects associated with chronic exposure to this gas
mixture.
TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system.
3. COMPOSITION and INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS
CHEMICAL NAME CAS # mole % EXPOSURE LIMITS IN AIR
ACGI H OSHA
TLV S T EL PEL S T EL IDLH OTHER
ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm
Hydrogen 1333 -74-0 < 5 . 7% There are no specific exposure limits for Hy drogen. Hydrogen is a simple asphyxiant
(SA).
Nitroge n 7727 -37-9 Balanc e There are no specific exposure limits for Nitrogen. Nitrogen is a simple asphyxiant
(SA). Ox ygen levels should be maintained above 19.5%.
This material is classified as hazardous under OSHA regulations in the United States and the WHMIS in
Canada.
NE = Not Established C = Ceiling Limit See Section 16 for Definitions of Terms Used.
NOTE: all WHMIS required information is included. It is located in appropriate sections based on the ANSI Z400.1-2004 format.
SILVERSHIELD 15 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: AUGUST 31, 2005
PAGE 2 OF 8
4 FIRST-AID MEASURES
RESCUER S SHOULD NOT ATTEMPT TO RETRIEVE VICTIMS OF EXPOSURE TO THIS GAS
MIXTURE WITHOUT ADEQUATE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT. At a minimum, Self-
Contained Breathing Apparatus should be worn.
Remove victim(s) to fresh air, as quickly as possible. If not breathing, give artificial respiration If breathing is difficult,
give oxygen. Only trained personnel should administer supplemental oxygen.
Victim(s) 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).
5. FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES
FLASH POINT: Not applicable.
AUTOIGNITION TEMPERATURE: Not applicable.
FLAMMABLE LIMITS (in air by volume, %):
Lower (LEL): Not applicable.
Upper (UEL): Not applicable
FIRE EXTINGUISHING MATERIALS: Non-flammable gas mixture. Use extinguishing media appropriate for
surrounding fire.
UNUSUAL FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS: This gas mixture 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.
SPECIAL FIRE-FIGHTING PROCEDURES: Structural fire-fighters must wear Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus
and full protective equipment.
6. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
LEAK RESPONSE: Evacuate immediate area. Uncontrolled 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.
Minimum Personal Protective Equipment should be: Level B: Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus. Locate and
seal the source of the leaking gas mixture. Allow the gas mixture to dissipate. Monitor the surrounding area for
oxygen levels. The atmosphere must have at least 19.5 percent oxygen before personnel can be allowed in the area
without Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus.
If leaking incidentally from the cylinder or its valve, contact your supplier.
7. HANDLING AND STORAGE
WORK PRACTICES AND HYGIENE PRACTICES: Be aware of any signs of dizziness or fatigue; exposures to
fatal concentrations of this gas mixture could occur without any significant warning symptoms, due to oxygen
deficiency.
STORAGE AND HANDLING PRACTICES: Cylinders should be stored upright and be firmly secured to prevent
falling or being knocked-over. Cylinders can be stored in the open, but in such cases, should be protected against
extremes of weather and from the dampness of the ground to prevent rusting. Cylinders should be stored in dry,
well-ventilated areas away from sources of heat, ignition and direct sunlight. Keep storage area clear of materials
which can burn. Do not allow area where cylinders are stored to exceed 52掳C (125掳F). Store containers away from
heavily trafficked areas and emergency exits. Store away from process and production areas, away from elevators,
building and room exits or main aisles leading to exits. Protect cylinders against physical damage.
Use a check valve or other protective device in the discharge line to prevent hazardous backflow. Neve r tamper with
pressure relief valves and cylinders. Keep the smallest amount necessary on-site at any one time. Full and empty
cylinders should be segregated. Use a first-in, first-out inventory systems to prevent full containers from being stored
for long periods of time.
SILVERSHIELD 15 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: AUGUST 31, 2005
PAGE 3 OF 8
7. HANDLING AND STORAGE (Continued)
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR HANDLING GAS CYLINDERS: Compressed gases can present significant safety
hazards. The following rules are applicable to work situations in which cylinders are being used.
Before Use: Move cylinders with a suitable hand-truck. Do not drag, slide or roll cylinders. Do not drop cylinders or
permit them to strike each other. Secure cylinders firmly. Leave the valve protection cap (where provided) in-place
until cylinder is ready for use.
During Use: Use designated CGA fittings and other support equipment. Do not use adapters. Do not heat cylinder
by any means to increase the discharge rate of the product from the cylinder. Do not use oils or grease on gas-
handling fittings or equipment. Immediately contact the supplier if there are any difficulties associated with operating
cylinder valve. Never insert an object (e.g., wrench, screwdriver, pry bar, etc.) into valve cap openings. Doing so
may damage valve, causing a leak to occur. Use an adjustable strap wrench to remove over-tight or rusted caps.
Never strike an arc on a compressed gas cylinder or make a cylinder part of and electric circuit.
After Use : Close main cylinder valve. Replace valve protection cap. Mark empty cylinders 鈥淓MPTY鈥?.
NOTE: Use only DOT or ASME code containers designed for gas storage. Close valve after each use and when
empty. Cylinders must not be recharged except by or with the consent of owner. For welding and brazing
operations, refer to ANSI Z-49.1 鈥淪afety in Welding and Cutting鈥? and OSHA safety regulations for welding, cutting,
and brazing (29 CFR 1910.252). In addition, see the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) publication 51
Oxygen Fuel Gas Welding and Cutting.
STANDARD VALVE CONNECTIONS FOR U.S. AND CANADA: Use the proper CGA connections, DO NOT
USE ADAPTERS:
THREADED: CGA 350
PIN-INDEXED YOKE: Not applicable.
ULTRA HIGH INTEGRITY: Not applicable.
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: Use with adequate ventilation. Local exhaust ventilation is
preferred, because it prevents chemical dispersion into the work place by eliminating it at its source. If appropriate,
install automatic monitoring equipment to detect the level of oxygen.
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION: Maintain oxygen levels above 19.5% in the workplace. Use supplied air
respiratory protection if oxygen levels are below 19.5% or during emergency response to a release of this gas
mixture. If respiratory protection is required, follow the requirements of the Federal OSHA Respiratory Protection
Standard (29 CFR 1910.134), or equivalent State standards.
EYE PROTECTION: Safety glasses.
HAND PROTECTION: Wear glove protection appropriate to the specific operation for which this gas mixture is
used.
BODY PROTECTION: Use body protection appropriate for task. Safety shoes are recommended when handling
cylinders.
9. PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
The following information is for Nitrogen, a main component of this gas mixture:
GAS DENSITY @ 0掳C (32掳F) and 1 atm: .072 lbs/cu ft (1.153 kg/m3)
BOILING POINT: -195.8掳C (-320.4掳F)
FREEZING/MELTING POINT (@ 10 psig) -210掳C (-345.8掳F)
SPECIFIC GRAVITY (air = 1) @ 21.1掳C (70掳F): 0.906 pH: Not applicable.
SOLUBILITY IN WATER vol/vol @ 0掳C and 1 atm: 0.023 MOLECULAR WEIGHT: 28.01
EVAPORATION RATE (nBuAc = 1): Not applicable. EXPANSION RATIO: Not applicable.
SPECIFIC VOLUME (ft 3/lb): 13.8
ODOR THRESHOLD: Not applicable. Odorles s.
VAPOR PRESSURE @ 21.1掳C (70掳F) psig: Not applicable.
COEFFICIENT WATER/OIL DISTRI BUTION: Not applicable.
SILVERSHIELD 15 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: AUGUST 31, 2005
PAGE 4 OF 8
9. PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES (Continued)
The following information is for this gas mixture:
APPEARANCE AND COLOR: This is a colorless, odorless gas mixture.
HOW TO DETECT THIS SUBSTANCE (warning properties): There are no unusual warning properties associated
with a release of this product. In terms of leak detection, fittings and joints can be painted with a soap solution to
detect leaks, which will be indicated by a bubble formation.
10. STABILITY and REACTIVITY
STABILITY: Normally stable gas mixture.
DECOMPOSITION PRODUCTS: None.
MATERIALS WITH WHICH SUBSTANCE IS INCOMPATIBLE: This gas mixture is comprised mainly of a relatively
inert gas (Nitrogen). Hydrogen, another component of this gas mixture, is incompatible with strong oxidizers (i.e.
chlorine, bromine, pentafluoride, oxygen, oxygen difluoride, and nitrogen trifluoride).
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 the components of gas mixture present in concentrations greater than
or equal to 1 mole %:
N I T R O G E N: There are no specific toxicology data for Nitrogen gas. Nitrogen is a simple asphyxiant , which acts to displace oxy gen in the
environment.
H Y D R O G E N : There are no specific toxicology data for Hy drogen. Hy drogen is a simple asphyxiant, which acts to displace oxy gen in the
environment.
SUSPECTED CANCER AGENT: The components of this gas mixture are not found on the following lists:
FEDERAL OSHA Z LIST, NTP, CAL/OSHA, IARC, and therefore are not considered to be, nor suspected to be a
cancer-causing agent by these agencies.
IRRITANCY OF PRODUCT: Not applicable.
SENSITIZATION OF PRODUCT: The components of this gas mixture are not known to be sensitizer after
prolonged or repeated exposures.
REPRODUCTIVE TOXICITY INFORMATION: Listed below is information concerning the effects the components of
this gas mixture on the human reproductive system.
Mutagenicity: This gas mixture is not expected to cause mutagenic effects in humans.
Embryotox city: This gas mixture is not expected to cause embryotoxic effects in humans.
Teratogenicity: This gas mixture is not expected to cause teratogenic effects in humans.
Reproductive Toxicity: This gas mixture is not expected 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 reproducti ve toxin is any
substance which interferes in any way with the reproductive process.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS AGGRAVATED BY EXPOSURE: Pre-existing respiratory conditions may be aggravated
by over-exposure to this gas mixture.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO PHYSICIANS: If necessary, administer oxygen; treat symptoms and eliminate over-
exposure.
BIOLOGICAL EXPOSURE INDICES (BEIs): Currently, Biological Exposure Indices (BEIs) are not applicable for
this gas mixture.
SILVERSHIELD 15 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: AUGUST 31, 2005
PAGE 5 OF 8
12. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
ENVIRONMENTAL STABILITY: The components of this gas mixture occur naturally in the atmosphere. The gas
mixture will be dissipated rapidly in well-ventilated areas. The following environmental data are available for the
components of this gas mixture.
N I T R O G E N : Log K o w = 0.92; Water solubility = 1.49% v/v (25?C, 1 atm.).
EFFECT OF MATERIAL ON PLANTS or ANIMALS: Any adverse effect on animals would be related to oxygen-
deficient environments. No adverse effect is anticipated to occur to plant-life, except for frost produced in the
presence of rapidly expanding gases.
EFFECT OF CHEMICAL ON AQUATIC LIFE: No evidence is currently available on this gas mixture鈥檚 effects on
aquatic life.
13. DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS
PREPARING WASTES FOR DISPOSAL: Waste disposal must be in accordance with appropriate Federal, State,
and local regulations. Return cylinders with any residual product to General Air. Do not dispose of locally.
For emergency disposal, secure the cylinder and slowly discharge the gas mixture to the atmosphere in a well-
ventilated area or outdoors.
14. TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
THIS MATERIAL IS HAZARDOUS AS DEFINED BY 49 CFR 172.101 BY THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION.
PROPER SHIPPING NAME: Compressed gases, n.o.s. (Nitrogen, Hydrogen)
HAZARD CLASS NUMBER and DESCRIPTION: 2.2 (Non-Flammable Gas)
UN IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: UN 1956
PACKING GROUP: Not applicable.
DOT LABEL(S) REQUIRED: Non-Flammable Gas
NORTH AMERICAN EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK NUMBER (2004): 126
MARINE POLLUTANT: The components of this gas mixture are not classified by the DOT as Marine Pollutants (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 present serious
safety hazards and should be discouraged.
NOTE: Shipment of compressed gas cylinders which have not been filled with the owners consent is a violation of
Federal law (49 CFR, Part 173.301 (b).
TRANSPORT CANADA TRANSPORTATION OF DANGEROUS GOODS REGULATIONS: THIS MATERIAL IS
CONSIDERED AS DANGEROUS GOODS. Use the above information for the preparation of Canadian Shipments.
15. REGULATORY INFORMATION
U.S. SARA REPORTING REQUIREMENTS: The components of this gas mixture is not subject to the reporting
requirements of Sections 302, 304 and 313 of Title III of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act.
U.S. SARA THRESHOLD PLANNING QUANTITY: Not applicable.
U.S. CERCLA REPORTABLE QUANTITIES (RQ): Not applicable.
CANADIAN DSL INVENTORY STATUS: The components of this mixture are listed on the Canadian DSL
Inventory.
U.S. TSCA INVENTORY STATUS: The components of this gas mixture are listed on the TSCA Inventory.
SILVERSHIELD 15 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: AUGUST 31, 2005
PAGE 6 OF 8
15. REGULATORY INFORMATION (Continued)
OTHER U.S. FEDERAL REGULATIONS:
鈥? The components of this gas mixture are not subject to the requirements of CFR 29 1910.1000. No component of
this gas mixture is listed on Table Z.1.
鈥? This gas mixture does not contain any Class I or Class II ozone depleting chemicals (40 CFR part 82).
鈥? Hydrogen is listed as Regulated Substances in quantities of 10,000 lbs (4,553 kg) or greater, per 40 CFR, Part
68, of the Risk Management for Chemical Accidental Release. Nitrogen is not listed as Regulated Substances
under this Standard.
鈥? Hydrogen is subject to the reporting requirements of Section 112(r) of the Clean Air Act. The Threshold Quantity
for of this gas is 10,000 pounds.
鈥? The regulations of the OSHA Standard, Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals (29
CFR 1910.119) are not applicable to this gas mixture.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65: The components of this gas mixture are not on the California Proposition 65 lists.
U.S. STATE REGULATORY INFORMATION: The components of this gas mixture are covered under the following
specific State regulations:
Alaska - Designated Toxic and Hazardous Pennsylvania - H a zardous Substance:
Michigan - Critical Materials Register: No.
Substances: Hydrogen. Minnesota - List of Hazardous Substances: Nitrogen, Hydrogen.
California - Permissible Exposure Limits Hydrogen. Rhode Island - H a zardous Substance List:
Missouri - Employe r Information/Toxic
for Chemical Contaminants: Nitrogen, Nitrogen, Hydrogen.
Substance List: Hydrogen.
Hydrogen. Texas - Hazardous Substance List : No.
Florida - Substance List: Hydrogen. Illinois - N e w Jersey - Right to Kno w H a zardous W est Virginia - H a zardous Substance List:
Toxic Substance List: Hydrogen. Kansas - Substance List: Nitrogen, Hydrogen. North No.
Section 302/313 List: No. Dakot a - List of H a zardous W isconsin - Toxic a n d H a zardous
Substances: No.
Massachusetts - Substance List: Chemicals, Reportable Quantities: No.
Hydrogen.
OTHER CANADIAN REGULATIONS: This gas mixture is categorized as a Controlled Product, Hazard Class A, as
per the Controlled Product Regulations.
16. OTHER INFORMATION
NFPA R A T I N G HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INFORMATION
SYSTEM
FLAMMABILITY
HEALTH
0 0
(BLUE)
0
0
HEALTH REACT IVITY
FLAMMABILITY 0
(RE D)
OTHER
REACTIVITY 0
(YE L L OW)
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT B
EYES R E S PI R A T O R Y HAN DS B O DY
See Section 8
For routine industrial applications
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.
SILVERSHIELD 15 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: AUGUST 31, 2005
PAGE 7 OF 8
16. OTHER INFORMATION (Continued)
Further information about the handling of compressed gases can be found in the following pamphlets published
by: Compressed Gas Association Inc. (CGA), 4221 Walney Road 5 th floor, Chantilly, VA 20151-2923.
Telephone: (703) 788-2700.
P-1 鈥淪afe Handling of Compressed Gases in Containers鈥?
AV-1 鈥淪afe Handling and Storage of Compressed Gases鈥?
鈥淗andbook of Compressed Gases鈥?
PREPARED BY: SAFETY DEPARTMENT
This Material Safet y Data Sheet is offered pursuant t o OSH A鈥檚 Hazard Communication Standard, 29 CFR, 1910.1200. Other government
regulations must be review ed for applicability to this gas mixture. T o the best of General Air鈥檚 knowledge, the information c ontained herein is
reliable and accurate as of this date; however, accurac y, s uitability or completeness are not guaranteed and no w arranties of any ty pe, either
express or implied, are provided. T h e information contained herein relates only to this specific produc t. If this gas mixture is combined with
other materials, all component properties must be considered. Data may be changed from tim e to time. Be sure to consult the latest edition.
SILVERSHIELD 15 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: AUGUST 31, 2005
PAGE 8 OF 8
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