NCASCR, Eskitis 12th Jan 2010 Page 1 of 3

Document NCASCR 0209.01

Date Details Of Revision

12-1-10 Document Revised.

NCASCR 0209.01 Use of MVE liquid nitrogen vapour phase

vessels.

1. Scope / Principle

Detailed procedures for the use of the MVE liquid nitrogen storage vessels.

2. Apparatus

2.1 2 X MVE Cryostorage vessel.

Model No 1542R Asset No: 103663
Model No 1542R Asset No: 103707
For Lab: use the vessel labelled ‘Bart’
For Human TC: use the vessel labelled ‘Lisa’

3. Protective equipment (PPE)

3.1 Cryogloves for protection of hands and wrists.

3.2 Facemask and/or safety glasses.
3.3 Lab coat with long sleeves.
3.4 Closed shoes.
3.5 Oxygen sensor in large storage area.

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Document NCASCR 0209.01

4. Health & safety considerations

4.1 Hazards
4.1.1 Frostbite – cold contact burns
Burns are certain with contact as nitrogen has a boiling point of below
minus 150OC. Note that care must be taken when using dry ice – avoid
contact burns.
4.1.2 Asphyxia
Only use in a well ventilated area. Liquid nitrogen should not be used in
transport. As well, no large volumes can be transported in lifts.
4.1.3 Explosion
Due to pressure differences there is always a chance that a vial coming
from liquid nitrogen (or vapour phase) may explode.

5. Procedure

5.1 Ensure that you are wearing the correct PPE

5.2 If you have not been trained using the MVE Cryovessel do NOT use –
seek training and/or assistance
5.3 Make sure your working environment (area) is clear of obstacles.
5.4 You are NOT permitted to use the Cryovessel named Lisa. Only
authorised people are allowed to use this vessel.
5.5 If you are removing cryovials have prepared an esky with dry ice.
5.6 After removing lid, press “Start Fill” to allow the removal of
condensation. When the vessel opening appears clear, press “Stop Fill”.
5.7 Rotate inner chamber until the storage area needed is in place.
5.8 Carefully remove your stack. Note it may be difficult to remove stack as
the “holding pins” are difficult to grasp. If this is the case use tweezers to
lever holding pins upright.

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5.9 After stack removal, remove storage box locking pin and remove storage
box. Stack can now be returned to the Cryovessel.
5.10 Remove cryovials and place into a container with dry ice.
5.11 Return the storage box and stack to Cryovessel (if not clear, go through
the “Start Fill” process again).
5.12 Note all changes in appropriate records.

6 First aid

6.1 If you receive a “cold burn” go to the water tap in the storage area and
flush any affected area with water.
6.2 If first aid assistance is needed inform your Supervisor, or an Institute
First Aid Officer.

7 Related Documents

NCASCR 106.01 SOP for Liquid nitrogen handling

Australian Standards AS2243.3
OGTR website: http://www.ogtr.gov.au/
Griffith University Health and Safety Guidelines (http://www.griffith.edu.au/ots/)
http://www.griffith.edu.au/ots/ControlledDocuments/
hsou_laboratory_whs_manual.pdf

Written By: Colm Cahill Sign: Colm Cahill Date: 12-1-10 Document / Version
NCASCR 0209.01
Authorised By: Colm Cahill Sign: Colm Cahill Date: 12-1-10

Printed 19/03/2024