This document discusses inert gases and confined spaces, noting that inert gases like nitrogen, argon, and helium are colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-flammable. It explains that inert gases are used in welding and pipe purging to prevent combustion and can displace oxygen in confined spaces, posing risks if oxygen levels are reduced too much. The document emphasizes that oxygen deficiency can cause death and outlines safety procedures like gas testing and permits required for confined space entry.

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

2. The Inert Gases
• Colourless
• Odourless
• Tasteless
• Non- Flammable
Helium, Argon, Nitrogen, Carbon Dioxide

3. Common Inert Gases Used on our
Projects
N
I
T
R
O
G
E
N
A
R
G
O
N
H
E
L
I
U
M
C
A
R
B
O
N
D
I
O
X
I
D
E
(N2) (CO2) (Ar) (He)

4. Why Have Inert Gases?
O2+ =
O2
Inert Gas

5. Why Have Inert Gases?
A
R
G
O
N
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

6. 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?

7. Oxygen Deficiency

8. 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

9. Oxygen Deficiency

10. 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

11. How can you identify a
Confined Space?
If you are required to construct or work in:
You are working in a confined space!!!

12. ATTENTION!
Analyzer House
Cylinder Storage

13. Confined Space Entry Safety
No Permit
No Gas Testing
No Log Sheet
No Hole Watch
NO ENTRY

14. In Case of Emergency

16. ANY QUESTIONS?