Argon, compressed

Remove victim to uncontaminated area wearing self contained breathing apparatus. Keep victim warm and rested. Call a doctor. Apply artificial respiration if breathing stopped.

Symptoms: In high concentrations may cause asphyxiation. Symptoms may include loss of mobility/consciousness. Victim may not be aware of asphyxiation.

Ingestion is not considered a potential route of exposure.

Material will not burn. In case of fire in the surroundings: use appropriate extinguishing agent.

None.

Heat may cause the containers to explode.

In case of fire: Stop leak if safe to do so. Continue water spray from protected position until container stays cool. Use extinguishants to contain the fire. Isolate the source of the fire or let it burn out.

Evacuate area. Provide adequate ventilation. Prevent from entering sewers, basements and workpits, or any place where its accumulation can be dangerous.

Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.

Only experienced and properly instructed persons should handle gases under pressure. Use only properly specified equipment which is suitable for this product, its supply pressure and temperature. Protect containers from physical damage; do not drag, roll, slide or drop. Secure cylinders in an upright position at all times, close all valves when not in use. When using do not eat, drink or smoke. Never use direct flame or electrical heating devices to raise the pressure of a container. Never attempt to repair or modify container valves or safety relief devices. Never attempt to transfer gases from one container to another.

Keep container below 50°C in a well ventilated place. Store in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations. Containers should not be stored in conditions likely to encourage corrosion. Stored containers should be periodically checked for general conditions and leakage. Container valve guards or caps should be in place. Store containers in location free from fire risk and away from sources of heat and ignition. Keep away from combustible material.

The substance must be handled in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety procedures. When using do not eat, drink or smoke.

Store containers in location free from fire risk and away from sources of heat and ignition. Keep away from combustible material. Never use direct flame or electrical heating devices to raise the pressure of a container.

Consider a work permit system e.g. for maintenance activities. Ensure adequate air ventilation. Provide adequate ventilation, including appropriate local extraction, to ensure that the defined occupational exposure limit is not exceeded. Oxygen detectors should be used when asphyxiating gases may be released. Systems under pressure should be regularly checked for leakages. Preferably use permanent leak tight connections (eg. welded pipes).

Guideline: EN 388 Protective gloves against mechanical risks. Additional Information: Wear working gloves while handling containers

Wear eye protection to EN 166 when using gases. Guideline: EN 166 Personal Eye Protection.

Not required.

Body protection: No special precautions. Other: Wear safety shoes while handling containers. Guideline: ISO 20345 Personal protective equipment - Safety footwear.

For waste disposal, see section 13 of the SDS.

Stable under normal conditions.

No reactivity hazard other than the effects described in sub-section below.

None.

None.

No reaction with any common materials in dry or wet conditions.

Under normal conditions of storage and use, hazardous decomposition products should not be produced.

Do not discharge into any place where its accumulation could be dangerous. Vent to atmosphere in a well ventilated place.

Refer to the EIGA code of practice (Doc.30 "Disposal of Gases", downloadable at http://www.eiga.org) for more guidance on suitable disposal methods.