Department of Biology
Risk Assessment Requirements
Generic Departmental Assessment:
- The following risks are generic to all lab areas:
- the storage of biological materials in non-pressurised liquid nitrogen dewars
- use of small quantities of liquid nitrogen for laboratory activities
- The application of arrangements / working practices outlined in this departmental guidance will ensure risks are reduced to a low and acceptable level.
Specific Risk Assessment:
- A specific risk assessment must be completed for areas storing quantities of liquid nitrogen that present a significant risk of asphyxiation, for example, use of pressurised cylinders which could release contents in the event of a valve failure. A Liquid nitrogen example: Risk assessment (PDF , 147kb) can be used for information and guidance. Contact Department Safety Advisor (David Nelson, e: dn6) for assistance if required.
- The process for completing a risk assessment for the handling and use of liquid nitrogen follows the same general rules for all risk assessments:
- Identify hazards
- Decide who might be harmed and how
- Evaluate the risks and decide whether existing precautions are adequate or whether more needs to be done
- Record your findings
- Review and revise your assessment as appropriate
- Information provided in other sections of these web pages will help you to identify the hazards and determine the relevant control measures needed
Assessment of ventilation requirements