26. Nitrogen Testing
Nitrogen (pressure) testing involves applying stored energy to an assembly of parts, in order to verify its strength, its integrity and/or its functionality.
The action you need to take to comply with these regulations will depend primarily on;
– the size of assembly under test
– its test pressure
– the test madium(Nitrogen)
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| Hazard Category | Hazards | Controls |
| Inhalation of Pure Nitrogen | 1. This is a very serious hazard presented by nitrojen vapor/gas. Inhalationof pure nitrogen (containing no oxygen) can and will result in the person to fall unconcious going into a coma with an ultimate result of death. If first aid is not administered immediately |
1. Atmosphere shall be monitored on an ongoing basis and suitable ventilation maintained at all times. 2. Personnel required to poerate in enclosed/confiend areas shall wear respiratory protectice equipment i.e. breathing apparatus. 3. Pernonnel shall be informed of the ‘tell tale signs’ of over exposure and advised of the relevant emergency procedures involved |
| High Pressure Release | 1. A sudden, accidental release of pressure is always a possibility |
1. All equipment within the systems shall be fitted with the relevant high pressure relief devices 2. Supervisors shall ensure that a ‘Safe System of Work’ is in plae for all tasks 3. Barriers shall be erected around high pressure testing areas with hazard and warning signs erected informing other personnel of the potential danger 4. Only authorized personnel shall be permitted in the danger area |
| Cold Burns to The skins | 1. Can occur by ontact with liquid and/or by contact with pipes etc. containing liquid |
1. Personal Protetive Equipment (PPE) shall be worn at all times when handling or working near liquid nitogen 2. Personnel shall be made aware of emergeny first aid treatment for skin contact and all burns shall be treated immediately |
| Venting of Gas | 1. One volume of liquid nitrogen at atmospheric temperature vaporizes to 695.5 volumes of nitrogen gas, Liquid nitrogen cannot be definitely maintained as a liquid even in well-insulated containers.
Any liquid or even cold vapor trapped between valves has the potential to ause an excessive build up to the point of a violent rupture of ontainer or piping |
1. Supervisors shall ensure that all systems (containing liquid nitrogen) are fitted with the relevant pressure relief devices. 2. Only qualified and authorized personnel shall be involved in venting iperations. 3. All operating and safety procedures shall be followed at all times. |
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