previous topic
AIHA
Glossary Index
Glossary Index
next topic
ALARA
MSDS
Topics
Free Sites FAQ's Regulations Glossary Software Suppliers
Books Forum Poll Fun stuff Quiz Store
Understand your MSDS with the MS-Demystifier Search ALL our MSDS info

Air

Confined space permit center

Be compliant with confined space products from Safety Emporium.

Definition

Air is the mixture of gases that surrounds the Earth. The composition of the earth's atmosphere varies with altitude, but at sea level contains approximately 78% nitrogen and 21% oxygen by volume.

An oxygen-deficient atmosphere contains less than 19.5% oxygen by volume.

An oxygen-enriched atmosphere contains more than 23.5% oxygen by volume.

An atmosphere that is immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) poses an immediate threat to life, would cause, irreversible adverse health effects, or would impair an individual's ability to escape from a dangerous atmosphere.

Additional Info

The amount of water vapor in air tends to vary depending on the temperature and atmospheric pressure. Dry air at standard atmospheric pressure has the following composition:

GasChemical
Formula
Percent by Volume
NitrogenN278.03
OxygenO220.99
ArgonAr0.94
Carbon DioxideCO20.033
NeonNe0.0015
HeliumHe0.000524
KryptonKr0.00014
XenonXe0.000006

Standard atmospheric pressure is defined as one atmosphere = 14.7 pounds per square inch (psi) = 760 torr. A list of pressure units and an on-line conversion calculator is available on this site.

Cylinders of compressed air are often used in industrial settings and laboratories. Be certain you are familiar with cylinder and compressed gas safety, including the proper use of gas regulators.

Oxygen-enriched atmospheres present exceptionally dangerous fire hazards (see link below). Oxygen-deficient atmospheres may result in unconsciousness, coma or death (see link below).

SDS Relevance

magnetic cylinder signs

Safety Emporium has a great lineup of gas cylinder signs, storage racks, clamps and more.

Air can appear in many contexts on a Safety Data Sheet:

  1. Air-purifying respirators or other breathing devices may be specified for use with the chemical or by emergency responders.
  2. Pyrophoric chemicals spontaneously inflame in air.
  3. Flammable or explosive limits are defined using a percent volume in air.
  4. In cases of inhalation of a hazardous chemical, the victim should be removed to fresh air.
  5. Special engineering controls such as fume hoods or local exhaust ventilation may be indicated.

In addition, many chemicals have high vapor pressures, which can result in an oxygen-deficient atmosphere, a flammable atmosphere, or narcosis. Never store cylinders of air or oxygen with flammable materials or gases.

Further Reading

See also: Asphyxiant, pressure units, ventilation.

Additional definitions from Google and OneLook.



Entry last updated: Saturday, February 19, 2022. This page is copyright 2000-2024 by ILPI. Unauthorized duplication or posting on other web sites is expressly prohibited. Send suggestions, comments, and new entry desires (include the URL if applicable) to us by email.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.