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Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide. It can cause injury if handled improperly. Handling dry
ice safely requires following certain precautions:
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Dry ice is extremely cold (-110°F or -79°C).
To avoid frostbite, do not touch dry ice with bare skin. Wear goggles,
thick gloves, and suitable clothing (e.g., long sleeves) to minimize
the risk of skin contact with dry ice. |
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Dry ice should only be used in areas
with adequate ventilation. Dry ice evaporates to form carbon dioxide
gas. This gas can cause respiratory distress and death by suffocation.
(See article at http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5350a6.htm
for additional information.)
Carbon dioxide gas is heavier than air and can accumulate at floor
level or in confined spaces, increasing the risk of suffocation.
Early signs include difficulty breathing, or panting. If you experience
these signs, immediately move to an open area. Do not enter areas
where |
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carbon dioxide gas may have accumulated
without first testing for the carbon dioxide and oxygen content. Transport
dry ice only in insulated, closed containers to prevent exposure to
carbon dioxide gas. |
Handle
dry ice
safely! |
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Do not store dry ice in tight containers. Pressure develops
as dry ice evaporates, which could burst air-tight containers. |
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When handling dry ice, only use equipment designed for
low temperatures. |
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First aid: In case of frostbite, obtain medical treatment
immediately. If carbon dioxide gas is inhaled, remove the exposed
person to an area with fresh air. If breathing is difficult, give
oxygen if available. Phone 911 for emergency medical assistance if
breathing does not become easier. If the person is not breathing,
give artificial respiration (e.g., mouth-to-mouth) and phone 911 for
emergency medical assistance. |
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Disposal: Dry ice can be disposed of by leaving the
container open in a well-ventilated area. The dry ice will evaporate
to form carbon dioxide gas. Make sure the container is not accessible
to children to prevent frostbite. |
Wear goggles, thick gloves, and suitable clothing
(e.g.,
long sleeves) to minimize the risk of skin contact with dry ice.
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