OXYGEN.

Abstract

The major hazard of oxygen is its oxidizing power. Any releases may cause a flash fire or explosion of fuel if ignition sources are present. The added hazard of extremely low temperatures is present when dealing with liquid oxygen and, of course, a spill of the liquid will produce tremendous quantities of gaseous oxygen. There is also a danger of a pressure relief explosion if a cylinder or tube of gaseous oxygen is exposed to heat. Treat gaseous oxygen containers as you would any other pressurized gas container. Since liquid oxygen containers are insulated, the application of water to a tank will be ineffective as a coolant. If water is to be used on a fire approaching a liquid oxygen storage tank, be careful to keep moisture from any safety relief devices. Any water near a valve that might be venting will immediately freeze and prevent the valve from operating.