How to Handle Dry Ice
With its many uses and applications, dry ice has found a home in various commercial and residential spaces.
With its many uses and applications, dry ice has found a home in various commercial and residential spaces. However, it’s important to know the fundamentals of handling dry ice safely, especially when used around children. Remember these key procedures when working with dry ice.
Handling
When handling dry ice, be careful to keep all your skin covered. Ranging in temperature from
-109 to -78 degrees, it’s clear to see why contacting dry ice will cause injury. Wear leather gloves, oven mitts, towels, and tongs to handle the dry ice. Remember to move slowly and carefully as you work with the dry ice.
Storage
To store dry ice and maintain its temperature, use an insulated container with thick insulation. Be careful to stay away from air tight containers because carbon dioxide will cause the container to expand and possibly explode. Proper ventilation is key to safe storage. While it would be a great way to keep your frozen food cold in the event of a power outage, storing dry ice in a working freezer will cause the thermostat to turn it off.
Transporting
When transporting dry ice, be sure to carry it in an insulated container. Watch that no exposed skin will make contact with the dry ice as you pick it up and move it to the next location. If you plan to travel more than 15 minutes, ensure that adequate airflow will reach the dry ice.
Ventilation
As previously mentioned, dry ice should have adequate ventilation at all times. If it has been stored in a closed off space for more than 15 minutes, provide some access to airflow to avoid the sublimation of carbon dioxide gas. Be careful not to enter areas where dry ice has been stored without allowing adequate airflow into the space first.
Burn Treatment
In the event that dry ice does make contact with the skin, treat it as you would with burns caused by hot surfaces or open flames. In more severe cases where the skin comes off or blisters, see a doctor as soon as possible. Use an antibiotic ointment to promote healing and cover with a bandage.
Dry Ice Cleaning with Dry Ice Corp
Dry Ice Corp is the largest regional supplier of dry ice and related products in the Northeastern United States. Our dry ice is fresh and delivered right to your doorstep. We are happy to help you determine the best way to ship your goods, whether you have a huge amount of cookies or a single pie, and help you select the perfect amount of dry ice for the job. Give us a call at (201) 767-3200 or contact us online for a quote. To connect with us online, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Google+, Pinterest, and Twitter.
