Cryogenic workers operate in environments characterized by extremely low temperatures, often below -200° Fahrenheit. The nature of their work involves handling and transferring cryogenic liquids like liquid nitrogen, helium, and oxygen. These substances are indispensable in various industries, including medical, aerospace, electronics, and food processing. However, the benefits come with significant risks, making personal protective equipment (PPE) essential for safety. In this blog, we’ll cover some of the more common tasks performed by cryogenic workers, the hazards present, and the recommended PPE for this type of work, particularly when it comes to face & eye protection.
Tasks Performed by Cryogenic Workers
Cryogenic workers engage in a range of tasks, each with specific safety requirements. These tasks include:
- Cryogenic Liquid Transfer: This involves transferring liquids from storage tanks to smaller containers or directly into application systems. The process can lead to splashes or spills, which pose a significant hazard due to the extreme cold.
- Cryogenic Freezing and Storage: Used in medical and research fields for preserving biological samples, these tasks require workers to handle containers and equipment that have been cooled to cryogenic temperatures.
- Maintenance and Repair: Equipment used in cryogenic applications requires regular maintenance and occasional repair. These tasks often involve exposure to cold surfaces and potential leaks of cryogenic liquids.
- Material Testing and Processing: In the aerospace and electronics industries, materials are often tested at cryogenic temperatures to determine their performance. This requires handling both the materials and the cryogenic substances.
The Importance of PPE
Given the hazardous nature of cryogenic work, appropriate PPE is crucial. The primary risks include:
- Cold Burns and Frostbite: Direct contact with cryogenic liquids or cold surfaces can cause severe tissue damage.
- Asphyxiation: Many cryogenic liquids can displace oxygen in the air, posing a suffocation risk.
- Eye Injuries: Splashes or vapor exposure can cause serious damage to the eyes.
Types of PPE Required
General Protective Clothing: Cryogenic workers must wear insulated gloves designed to protect against extreme cold. These gloves should be made of materials like leather or specialized polymers that remain flexible at low temperatures. Workers should also wear aprons or coveralls made of insulating materials to protect against cold burns and frostbite.
Face and Eye Protection: The importance of face and eye protection cannot be overstated. A single splash of liquid nitrogen, for example, can cause severe eye injuries or even blindness. Therefore, it is critical that safety protocols are strictly followed, and PPE is always worn. The following face & eye PPE is recommended:
- Safety Goggles: To protect against splashes and vapors, goggles are a great option because of the tight seal they form around the worker’s eye. Goggles should feature antifog lenses to ensure visibility in varying temperatures.
- Face Shields: In addition to goggles, face shields provide an extra layer of protection against splashes. They are particularly important during liquid transfer and maintenance tasks.
- Full-face Respirators: In environments where there is a risk of oxygen displacement, full-face respirators equipped with appropriate filters can protect against inhalation of harmful vapors and provide eye protection.
Respiratory Protection: In addition to face and eye protection, respiratory protection is necessary in areas where cryogenic liquids could displace oxygen. Oxygen monitors should be used to ensure safe levels, and appropriate respirators should be available if needed.
Advantages of Polycarbonate in Extremely Low Temps
Polycarbonate is a plastic material widely known for its excellent impact value and resistance to high temperatures. However, this material also stands up well against extremely low temperatures, making it the ideal material for face shields and goggle lenses for cryogenic work. Polycarbonate is an amorphous thermoplastic polymer, characterized by its molecular structure of repeating carbonate groups, which contributes to its durability and stability under extreme conditions. Unlike many materials that become brittle at low temperatures, polycarbonate maintains its toughness and clarity, ensuring reliable protection and visibility. The strong intermolecular bonds and lack of crystallinity in its structure allow polycarbonate to absorb impacts without fracturing, even in cryogenic environments. This unique combination of chemical and structural properties makes polycarbonate an ideal choice for protective equipment used in both extremely cold and high-impact situations.
Creating a Culture of Safety in Cryogenic Facilities
Training and regular safety drills are essential to ensure that workers are familiar with the proper use of PPE and the risks associated with cryogenic materials. Safety professionals should conduct regular inspections to ensure that all PPE is in good condition and meets the required safety standards.
Cryogenic workers perform tasks that are vital across many industries, but the risks associated with these tasks demand rigorous safety measures. Appropriate PPE, including face and eye protection, is essential to prevent injuries and ensure a safe working environment. By adhering to safety protocols and wearing the necessary protective gear, cryogenic workers can perform their duties effectively while minimizing the risk of injury.
To learn more about face and eye PPE for cryogenic workers, please contact us today.