Cryogenic PPE by Task: What to Wear for Bench Work, Vessels, Decanting and Dry Shippers

A single line in a risk assessment saying "cryogenic PPE to be worn" leaves every decision to the person at the vessel. Writing PPE by task is clearer, easier to train and easier to audit.

Bench handling of frozen samples

Moving visotubes, goblets or vials between a transfer container and a rack: safety glasses and wrist length cryogenic gloves, adding a face shield if the transfer container holds open liquid rather than vapour.

Working in a storage vessel

Lifting canisters or racks and retrieving samples: a face shield over safety glasses, mid arm or elbow length gloves, a waterproof apron and closed footwear.

Decanting and filling

The highest splash risk and the task most often rushed. Wear the full set: face shield, glasses, elbow or shoulder length gloves, a full length apron and trousers worn outside closed boots, never tucked in.

Charging and loading dry shippers

The full set while liquid is being poured in, then face shield, glasses and gloves for loading once the free liquid has been poured off.

Spills and oxygen alarms

PPE protects against cold, not against an oxygen deficient atmosphere. Nobody should enter a room with an active oxygen alarm, whatever they are wearing.

Fit and upkeep

Gloves should come off in one movement, so stock several sizes. Check gloves and visors before each use, store PPE dry and away from the vessels, and replace it on a schedule. In Great Britain, employers must provide PPE free of charge where a risk assessment shows it is needed, and HSE guidance expects it to be maintained, stored properly and supported by training.

The full guide is on the Cryolab website: Complete cryogenic PPE for liquid nitrogen work.