How Can Students Safely Use Gases in Laboratory

Students using gases in the laboratory is a common requirement for many experiments and research. Although gases are very important in scientific research, improper use can be dangerous, including fire, explosion, poisoning and health risks. Therefore, when using gases in the laboratory, safe operating procedures must be followed to ensure the safety of laboratory operations. Here are some precautions for experimental gases.

When you use gases in the laboratory, please make sure to follow the detailed precautions below:

Safe operation

Before the experiment, understand the laboratory’s safety regulations and operating procedures. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as laboratory coats, chemical-resistant gloves, goggles and masks to ensure personal safety.

Gas identification

Before using the gas, carefully check the label on the gas cylinder to confirm the characteristics of the gas. The label on the gas cylinder usually includes the gas name, pressure level and hazard symbol.

Ventilation system

Ensure that there is an effective ventilation system in the laboratory to avoid the accumulation of toxic gases or the leakage of harmful gases. Exhaust hoods, exhaust fans or fresh air systems can be used for ventilation during the experiment.

Gas pressure

Before using the gas, check the pressure gauge on the gas cylinder to ensure that the gas pressure is within the safe range. Do not use gas that exceeds the rated pressure of the gas cylinder.

Gas storage

Store the gas cylinder in a sturdy and vertical position to prevent tipping or impact. Do not store the gas cylinder in direct sunlight to prevent overheating.

Gas handling

In the laboratory, use gas flow controllers and pressure regulators to accurately control the amount of gas used. Make sure to use the correct connectors and accessories.

Leakage check

Before using gas, perform regular leak checks. Use gas sensors, odor, or soapy water to detect potential leaks and ensure that there are no leaks in the gas system.

Avoid mixing

The gas stored in the gas cylinder should match the gas required for the experiment. Do not mix different types of gas. Mixed gases may cause dangerous reactions.

First aid measures

Understand the first aid measures and emergency shutdown procedures in the laboratory. Learn how to use emergency equipment such as safety showers and emergency eyewashes. Ensure that first aid equipment and telephone numbers in the laboratory are easily accessible.

End of experiment

After the experiment, turn off the gas source, release the residual gas in the gas pipeline, and store the gas cylinder safely. Clean the laboratory to ensure there are no leaks.

Training

Students should receive gas safety operation training before entering the laboratory and know how to respond to gas leaks, fires, or other emergencies. Conduct safety training and drills regularly.

Following these detailed precautions for using lab gases is key to ensuring the success of your experiment. If you are unfamiliar or uncertain about using a particular type of gas, consult a lab safety expert. To ensure efficiency when using gases in the lab, we need to pay special attention to which gases may be highly dangerous or harmful to personnel and the environment. Here are some gases that require special attention:

1. Toxic gases: including hydrogen cyanide (HCN), chlorine (Cl2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), ammonia (NH3), etc. These gases are harmful to the human body and may cause poisoning, suffocation or other health problems. Additional safety measures such as ventilation and personal protective equipment must be taken when using these gases.

2. Flammable gases: including hydrogen (H2), methane (CH4), propane (C3H8), etc. These gases form flammable mixtures in the air and are prone to fire or explosion. Strict fire and explosion prevention measures must be followed when using them.

3. Carcinogenic gases: Certain gases, such as benzene (C6H5), ethylene dioxide (EO), 1,3-butadiene (BD), etc., may pose a cancer risk to the human body. Additional protection and control measures should be taken when using these gases to reduce the risk of exposure.

4. Corrosive gases: Some gases, such as chlorine (Cl2), fluorine (F2) and ammonia (NH3), are highly corrosive and can damage equipment and structures. Caution must be exercised when using these gases and protective measures must be taken.

5. Strongly acidic and alkaline gases: These gases, such as hydrofluoric acid (HF) and ammonia (NH3), are extremely acidic or alkaline and can cause damage to the skin and mucous membranes. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment when using them and perform closed operations.

6. Radioactive gases: Some radioactive gases, such as radon (Rn), are radioactive and may pose a radiation hazard to the human body. Comply with radioactive safety regulations when handling radioactive gases.

7. High-pressure gases: High-pressure gases in cylinders (such as hydrogen, helium) may pose a danger to the surrounding environment and personnel in the event of leakage or loss of control. Safety measures must be taken when storing and using high-pressure gases.

8. Unstable gases: Some gases may be unstable under certain conditions and are prone to decomposition or reaction. Special care is required when handling these gases and their chemical properties must be understood.
9. High-purity gases: In some cases, high-purity gases may be harmful to the human body because they may lack oxygen or contain harmful impurities. When using high-purity gases, you must understand their characteristics and potential risks.

Conclusion

Experiments are an important step in conducting scientific research, but ensuring life safety is also an important course. We need to train students in the laboratory to ensure that they understand how to properly handle and deal with these dangerous gases.