Inert Gases and Confined Spaces(What You Need To Know)

The Inert Gases

• Colourless

• Odourless

• Tasteless

• Non- Flammable

Helium, Argon, Nitrogen, Carbon Dioxide

Common Inert Gases Used on our Projects

NITROGEN

ARGON

HELIUM

C A R B O N

DIOXIDE

(N2) (CO2) (Ar) (He)

Why Have Inert Gases?

O2+ =

O2

Inert Gas

Why Have Inert Gases?

ARGON

Pipe section to be welded

Pipe section to be welded

Field Weld Point

Purge Dams

Inert Gas (Argon)

Inert Gas

Purge Hose

Argon Leaking from Purge DamArgon Leaking from Purge Dam

Inert gases are not toxic and do not burn or explode.

Yet they can cause injury or death if they are present in sufficiently high concentrations.

They can displace enough air to reduce Oxygen (O2) levels.

What is the danger of an Inert Gas?

ArO

2

Oxygen Deficiency

A SERIOUS HAZARD

Oxygen Deficiency

Oxygen is Essential for:Human Life and Brain Processes

O2 If there is too little oxygen:* Brain Cells stop working* Loss of consciousness

* Breathing stops* Brain damage, paralysis

* DEATH

Oxygen Deficiency

Potential in All Confined Spaces

How can you identify a Confined Space?

A confined space is a space which has any of the following characteristics :

Limited opening for entry and exit

Poor ventilation

Not designed for continuous human occupancy

How can you identify a Confined Space?

If you are required to construct or work in:

You are working in a confined space!!!

ATTENTION!

Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres

Can also arise in normal working areas where

gases are stored or used

Analyzer House

Cylinder Storage

Confined Space Entry Safety

No PermitNo Gas TestingNo Log Sheet

No Hole Watch

NO ENTRY

Call JOC Emergency Number,

XXX-XXXXJoint Operations Centre (JOC)

In Case of Emergency

IF you’re unsure: ASK

IF it’s unsafe: STOP

Incident and Injury Free

Is up to YOU !

ANY QUESTIONS?