Poison Gases

Poison gases represent a significant hazard. Specialprecautions not otherwise necessary become prudent when using poison gases:

• Common poison or highlytoxic gases include:

- arsine (AsH3)
- ethylene oxide (EtO)
- hydrogen cyanide (HCN)
- nitric oxide (NO)
- phosphine (PH3)

• Certain poison gases (e.g.,Ethylene Oxide) can only be used if specific OSHA regulations and safepractices are followed.

• Certain poison gases (e.g.,Ethylene Oxide) can only be used if specific OSHA regulations and safepractices are followed.

• Emergency procedures shouldbe made clear to all involved, including personnel from adjacent labs andbuilding managers.

• Poison gas use after normalworking hours require the approval of the Chemical Hygiene Officer for yourdepartment.

• Fume hoods and otherventilation need to be tested before use and checked frequently during theproject involving poison gas.

• Notify EnvironmentalHealth, Safety and Risk Management before your first use of the poison gas.

• The University Policeshould also be informed about the locations and types of poison gas in use.

• Document these proceduresin your lab's chemical hygiene plan. As with all chemicals, obtain and reviewthe Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the poison gas. Maintain an extracopy of the MSDS in your department's chemical hygiene plan.