MATERIAL SAFETY
DATA SHEET
Prepared to U.S. OSHA, CMA, ANSI and Canadian WHMIS Standards
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
CHEMICAL NAME; CLASS: NITROGEN
SYNONYMS: NF Nitrogen; Nitrogen, Compressed
CHEMICAL FAMILY NAME: Inert Gas
FORMULA: N2
Document Number: 50003(Replaces Bacharach MSDS No. 99-0018)
Note: This Material Safety Data Sheet is for Nitrogen supplied in cylinders with 33 cubic feet (935 liters) or less gas capacity (DOT - 39 cylinders). For
Nitrogen in large cylinders refer to Document Number 10061.
PRODUCT USE: Calibration of Monitoring and
Research Equipment
SUPPLIER: BACHARACH, INC.
MSDS RESPONSIBILTIY: CALGAZ, LLC
ADDRESS: 821 Chesapeake Drive
Cambridge, MD 21613
EMERGENCY PHONE: CHEMTREC: 1-800-424-9300
BUSINESS PHONE: 1-410-228-6400
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
Nitrogen 7727-37-9 > 99.99% There are no specific exposure limits for Nitrogen. Nitrogen is a simple asphyxiant (SA).
Oxygen levels should be maintained above 19.5%.
Maximum Impurities < 0.01% None of the trace impurities in this product contribute significantly to the hazards
associated with the 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: Nitrogen 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 route of over-exposure for this product is by inhalation. HAZ AR DO U S M AT ER IAL IDENT IFIC AT IO N SYST EM
INHALATION: Due to the small size of an individual cylinder of this product, no
unusual health effects from exposure to the product are anticipated under routine
H EALT H H AZAR D
circumstances of use. If this product is released in a small, poorly ventilated area 0
(BLUE)
(i.e. an enclosed or confined space), an oxygen-deficient environment may occur.
Individuals breathing such an atmosphere may experience symptoms which include
headaches, ringing in ears, dizziness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea,
FLAM M AB ILIT Y H AZAR D
vomiting, and depression of all the senses. Under some circumstances of over- 0
(RED)
exposure, death may occur. The following effects associated with various levels of
oxygen are as follows:
OXYGEN
P H Y S IC AL H AZAR D (YE LLO W ) 0
CONCENTRATION SYMPTOM OF EXPOSURE
12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increased, muscular
coordination slightly disturbed.
10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset, abnormal fatigue, disturbed PR O T EC T IVE EQ U IPM EN T
respiration.
6-10% Oxygen: Nausea and vomiting, collapse or loss of E YES H AN D S BODY
R E SP IR A T O R Y
consciousness.
Below 6%: Convulsive movements, possible respiratory
See Section 8
collapse, and death.
HEALTH EFFECTS OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE: An Explanation in Lay Terms.
Over-exposure to Nitrogen may cause the following health effects: F or Routine Industrial U se and Handling Applications
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.
NITROGEN - N2 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: APRIL 26, 2005
PN 3432 PAGE 1 OF 4
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.
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 appropriate for surrounding fire.
0
0
UNUSUAL FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS: Argon does not burn; however, HEALTH REACTIVITY
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-
OTHER
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掳C, 70掳F. 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鈥檚 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鈥檚 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 @ 32掳F (0掳C) and 1 atm: 0.072 lbs/cu ft (1.153 kg/m )
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) @ 70掳F (21.1掳C): 0.906 pH: Not applicable.
SOLUBILITY IN WATER vol/vol at 32掳F (0掳C) and 1 atm: 0.023 MOLECULAR WEIGHT: 28.01
EVAPORATION RATE (nBuAc = 1): Not applicable. EXPANSION RATIO: Not applicable.
3
ODOR THRESHOLD: Not applicable. Odorless. SPECIFIC VOLUME (ft /lb): 13.8
VAPOR PRESSURE @ 70掳F (21.1掳C) (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 in gaseous state.
DECOMPOSITION PRODUCTS: None.
MATERIALS WITH WHICH SUBSTANCE IS INCOMPATIBLE: Titanium is the only element that will burn in Nitrogen. Lithium reacts slowly with
Nitrogen at ambient temperatures.
HAZARDOUS POLYMERIZATION: Will not occur.
CONDITIONS TO AVOID: Contact with incompatible materials. Cylinders exposed to high temperatures or direct flame can rupture or burst.
NITROGEN - N2 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: APRIL 26, 2005
PN 3432 PAGE 2 OF 4
11. TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION
TOXICITY DATA: There are no specific toxicology data for Nitrogen. Nitrogen is a simple asphyxiant, which acts to displace oxygen in the
environment.
SUSPECTED CANCER AGENT: Nitrogen is not found on the following lists: FEDERAL OSHA Z LIST, NTP, CAL/OSHA, IARC; therefore it is not
considered to be, nor suspected to be a cancer-causing agent by these agencies.
IRRITANCY OF PRODUCT: Nitrogen is not irritating; however, contact with rapidly expanding gases can cause frostbite to exposed tissue.
SENSITIZATION OF PRODUCT: Nitrogen is not a sensitizer.
REPRODUCTIVE TOXICITY INFORMATION: Listed below is information concerning the effects Nitrogen on the human reproductive system.
Mutagenicity: Nitrogen has not been reported to cause mutagenic effects in humans.
Embryotoxicity: Nitrogen has not been reported to cause embryotoxic effects in humans.
Teratogenicity: Nitrogen has not been reported to cause teratogenic effects in humans.
Reproductive Toxicity: Nitrogen 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 Nitrogen.
12. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
ENVIRONMENTAL STABILITY: Nitrogen 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 Nitrogen, 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鈥檚 effects on aquatic life.
13. DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS
PREPARING WASTES FOR DISPOSAL 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 GAS IS HAZARDOUS AS DEFINED BY 49 CFR 172.101 BY THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION.
PROPER SHIPPING NAME: Nitrogen, compressed
HAZARD CLASS NUMBER and DESCRIPTION: 2.2 (Non-Flammable Gas)
UN IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: UN 1066
PACKING GROUP: Not applicable.
DOT LABEL(S) REQUIRED: Class 2.2 (Non-Flammable Gas)
NORTH AMERICAN EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK NUMBER (2000): 121
MARINE POLLUTANT: Nitrogen 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: Nitrogen, compressed
HAZARD CLASS NUMBER and DESCRIPTION: 2.2 (Non-Flammable Gas)
UN IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: UN 1066
PACKING GROUP: Not Applicable
HAZARD LABEL: Class 2.2 (Non-Flammable Gas)
SPECIAL PROVISIONS: None
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: Nitrogen is listed on the TSCA Inventory.
U.S. CERCLA REPORTABLE QUANTITIES (RQ): Not applicable.
U.S. STATE REGULATORY INFORMATION:
Nitrogen is covered under the following specific State regulations:
Alaska - Designated Toxic and Hazardous Substances: No.
California-Permissible Exposure Limits Missouri-Employer Information/Toxic Rhode Island-Hazardous Substance
for Chemical Contaminants: Nitrogen. Substance List: No. List: Nitrogen.
Florida--Substance List: No. New Jersey-Right to Know Hazardous Texas-Hazardous Substance List: No.
Illinois - Toxic Substance List: No. Substance List: Nitrogen. West Virginia-Hazardous Substance
Kansas - Section 302/313 List: No. North Dakota-List of Hazardous List: No.
Massachusetts - Substance List: No. Chemicals, Reportable Quantities: Wisconsin-Toxic and Hazardous
No.
Michigan-Critical Materials Register:No. Substances: No.
Pennsylvania-Hazardous Substance
Minnesota-List of Hazardous
List: Nitrogen.
Substances: No.
CALIFORNIA SAFE DRINKING WATER AND TOXIC ENFORCEMENT ACT (PROPOSITION 65): Nitrogen is not on the California Proposition
65 lists.
OTHER U.S. FEDERAL REGULATIONS:
鈥? Generally recognized as safe (GRAS), as a direct human food ingredient when used as a propellant, aerating agent and gas, per 21, CFR,
184.1540. Nitrogen NF is regulated by the FDA as a prescription drug.
鈥? Depending on specific operations involving the use of this product, the regulations of the Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous
Chemicals may be applicable (29 CFR 1910.119). Nitrogen is not listed in Appendix A under this regulation.
鈥? Nitrogen does not contain any Class I or Class II ozone depleting chemicals (40 CFR part 82).
鈥? Nitrogen is not listed as a Regulated Substance, per 40 CFR, Part 68, of the Risk Management for Chemical Releases.
ADDITIONAL CANADIAN REGULATIONS:
CANADIAN DSL/NDSL INVENTORY STATUS: Nitrogen on the Canadian DSL Inventory.
NITROGEN - N2 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: APRIL 26, 2005
PN 3432 PAGE 3 OF 4
15. REGULATORY INFORMATION (CONTINUED)
CANADIAN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT (CEPA) PRIORITIES SUBSTANCES LISTS: Nitrogen is not on the CEPA Priorities
Substances List.
CANADIAN WHMIS CLASSIFICATION: Nitrogen 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, LLC 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 Nitrogen 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-10.1 鈥淐ommodity Specification for Nitrogen鈥?
P-1 鈥淪afe Handling of Compressed Gases in Containers鈥?
P-9 鈥淚nert Gases, Argon, Nitrogen and Helium鈥?
P-14 鈥淎ccident Prevention in Oxygen-Rich, Oxygen-Deficient Atmospheres鈥?
SB-2 鈥淥xygen Deficient Atmospheres鈥?
AV-1 鈥淪afe Handling and Storage of Compressed Gases鈥?
鈥淗andbook of Compressed Gases鈥?
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鈥檚 Hazard Communication Standard, 29 CFR, 1910.1200. Other government
regulations must be reviewed for applicability to this product. To the best of CALGAZ, LLC鈥檚 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.
NITROGEN - N2 MSDS EFFECTIVE DATE: APRIL 26, 2005
PN 3432 PAGE 4 OF 4
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