Food Science Commons^™

Handling Compressed Gases And Cryogens, Roger Barth

Chemistry Faculty Publications

Compressed gases and cryogenic liquids are widely used in beer brewing and serving. The nature of these materials can present mechanical, toxic, asphyxiation, extreme cold, and chemical hazards. This article explains the equipment and procedures for safe use of compressed gases and cryogenic liquids frequently used in the beer industry. Guidelines for labeling, storage, transit within a facility, connecting to brewing or serving systems, and checking for leaks are presented. Specifics regarding hazards associated with oxygen (chemical hazard), carbon dioxide (toxic), and nitrogen (asphyxiant) are discussed. Special procedures and precautions for two frequently used cryogens, liquid nitrogen and bulk carbon …