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Topic: SCIF / Medical gas Grounding

User: Brian 913, Location: Florida

Asked on: Monday, April 4, 2011 at 3:04 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:44 am EDT

Question: We are grounding a SCIF for security reasons, is it ok to ground Nitrous Oxide, Oxygen and Compressed Air piping that is running thru the space?

No, it is not okay to ground Nitrous Oxide, Oxygen, and Compressed Air piping that is running through the SCIF.

Grounding these pipes could create a spark or electrical arc, which could ignite the gases and cause an explosion.

Here are the reasons why



Nitrous oxide is a flammable gas.
It can ignite easily if it comes into contact with a spark or flame. Oxygen is a supporter of combustion. It can help a fire burn more intensely and quickly.* Compressed air can contain oil. Oil is a flammable substance that can also ignite if it comes into contact with a spark or flame.If any of these gases were to ignite, it could cause an explosion that could damage the SCIF and injure or kill people inside.

Instead of grounding the piping, you should insulate it. Insulation will help to prevent the pipes from conducting electricity and creating a spark.You should also make sure that the piping is properly labeled so that people know what gases are flowing through it. This will help to prevent accidental contact with the gases and reduce the risk of an explosion. Flag for review

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