FIRE OR EXPLOSION
* Substance does not burn but will support combustion. * Some may react explosively with fuels. * May ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.). * Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground. * Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard. * Containers may explode when heated. * Ruptured cylinders may rocket.
HEALTH
* Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation without warning. * Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite. * Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases.
PUBLIC SAFETY
* CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. * Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 25 to 50 meters (80 to 160 feet) in all directions. * Keep unauthorized personnel away. * Stay upwind. * Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). * Keep out of low areas. * Ventilate closed spaces before entering.
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
* Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). * Wear chemical protective clothing which is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. * Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations. * Always wear thermal protective clothing when handling refrigerated/cryogenic liquids.
EVACUATION
Large Spill: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 500 meters (1/3 mile).
Fire: If tank, rail car or tank truck is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.
FIRE
* Use extinguishing agent suitable for type of surrounding fire.
Small Fires: Dry chemical or CO2.
Large Fires: * Water spray, fog or regular foam. * Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk. * Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.
Fire involving Tanks: * Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles. * Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. * Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur. * Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. * ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire. * For massive fire, use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn.
SPILL OR LEAK
* Keep combustibles (wood, paper, oil, etc.) away from spilled material. * Do not touch or walk through spilled material. * Stop leak if you can do it without risk. * If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid. * Do not direct water at spill or source of leak. * Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. * Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. * Allow substance to evaporate. * Isolate area until gas has dispersed.
CAUTION: When in contact with refrigerated/cryogenic liquids, many materials become brittle and are likely to break without warning.
FIRST AID
* Move victim to fresh air. * Call 911 or emergency medical service. * Apply artificial respiration if victim is not breathing. * Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. * Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes. * Clothing frozen to the skin should be thawed before being removed. * In case of contact with liquefied gas, thaw frosted parts with lukewarm water * Keep victim warm and quiet. * Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, and take precautions to protect themselves.