Liquid nitrogen (LN₂) is a versatile tool in laboratories, healthcare facilities, and industrial environments. Its ability to maintain temperatures as low as -196°C and below the glass transition temperature makes it invaluable for sample preservation, cryotherapy, and cooling applications. Careful handling of liquid nitrogen is essential and improper use of liquid nitrogen can lead to serious safety risks.
At Lab Equipment Company, we not only emphasize the importance of safe LN₂ practices, but also provide the specialized cryogenic storage and transport equipment that helps organizations handle liquid nitrogen securely and effectively. Below, we’ll cover essential information on how to safely store, transport, and handle liquid nitrogen.
Why Liquid Nitrogen Safety Matters
While liquid nitrogen is widely used, it poses significant risks if mishandled. Its extreme cold can cause instant tissue damage, and the rapid evaporation of nitrogen gas can displace oxygen, leading to suffocation in poorly ventilated areas. Establishing safety practices protects personnel, prevents accidents, and ensures compliance with workplace safety standards.
Common Uses in Labs, Medicine, and Industry
Liquid nitrogen plays a vital role across disciplines because of its ability to maintain extremely low temperatures consistently.
-
Research labs: LN₂ enables long-term preservation of biological samples such as DNA, stem cells, and blood products. It’s also used to rapidly freeze cells for experimentation and to cool sensitive instruments during testing.
-
Medical settings: In hospitals and clinics, liquid nitrogen supports cryosurgery for removing abnormal tissue, dermatology treatments like wart removal, and vaccine storage that requires ultra-cold environments.
-
Invitro Fertilization (IVF) Labs: LN2 is essential in IVF laboratories because it allows long-term, stable preservation of eggs, sperm, and embryos at ultra-low temperatures. At –196°C, all biological activity (including cellular aging) stops—so cells can remain viable for years or even decades..
-
Industrial operations: LN₂ helps with shrink-fitting metal parts for engineering, rapid cooling in food processing to preserve freshness, and protecting delicate electronics from overheating during testing.
Its flexibility makes it one of the most relied-upon cryogenic substances in modern science and technology.
Potential Hazards and Liquid Nitrogen Dangers
-
Frostbite and burns from direct skin contact.
-
Asphyxiation risk in confined spaces due to oxygen displacement.
-
Pressure build-up and explosion if liquid nitrogen is sealed in an airtight container.
Damage to Facility Flooring
Liquid Nitrogen can crack, spall, delaminate, and otherwise damage floors by cooling them so quickly that materials become brittle or separate from their substrate — and by creating condensation/ice that lifts coatings and tiles. It’s surprisingly destructive because −196 °C is far colder than anything normal building materials are designed for.
How to Store Liquid Nitrogen Safely
Always store LN₂ in specially designed containers, such as Dewar flasks or pressurized tanks, that allow venting of evaporated gas. Keep storage areas well-ventilated to prevent oxygen depletion. Staff should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including cryogenic gloves, goggles, and face shields when dispensing or transferring liquid nitrogen.
Transporting Liquid Nitrogen Correctly
Transport must follow strict safety standards. Use approved cryogenic transport vessels and secure them during movement to prevent spills. Never transport LN₂ in elevators or enclosed vehicles without adequate ventilation. For larger quantities, specialized carriers and compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations are required.
How Long Does Liquid Nitrogen Last?
The lifespan of LN₂ depends on storage container quality and usage. In a properly designed Dewar, liquid nitrogen can last several weeks before evaporating. Smaller containers may only maintain LN₂ for a few days. Regular monitoring ensures adequate supply and reduces unexpected shortages.
What Happens If Liquid Nitrogen Touches You?
Brief contact may cause a "Leidenfrost effect," where vapor forms a protective barrier between skin and liquid. However, prolonged or large-area contact causes severe cold burns, blistering, and tissue damage similar to frostbite. Immediate medical attention is required after exposure.
Emergency Preparedness and Safety Protocols
Every facility should maintain clear emergency procedures for spills, accidental exposure, or oxygen depletion. Key measures include:
-
Training staff in first aid and spill response.
-
Installing oxygen monitors in storage areas.
-
Keeping protective gear and eyewash stations readily available.
Key Takeaways for Safer Handling
-
Always use LN₂ with proper containers and PPE. Cryogenic gloves, goggles, and face shields are essential for preventing injury, while certified Dewars or storage tanks help maintain product integrity.
-
Store and transport in ventilated areas with approved equipment. Proper airflow prevents oxygen displacement, while secure transport vessels reduce the chance of spills or leaks. For large quantities, follow regulatory guidelines to ensure compliance.
-
Be aware of oxygen displacement hazards. Oxygen monitors and alarms can provide an extra layer of protection in labs or storage rooms where nitrogen gas may accumulate.
-
Train staff in emergency procedures. Routine training, posted signage, and clearly outlined response protocols prepare teams to react quickly in the event of exposure, spills, or equipment failure.
By reinforcing these practices daily, facilities create a culture of safety that protects both people and valuable research materials.
Conclusion
Liquid nitrogen is a powerful tool across many industries, but its benefits come with critical safety responsibilities. By following best practices for storage, transport, and emergency response, labs and organizations can protect both people and operations.
At Lab Equipment Company, we understand the importance of both performance and safety when working with cryogenic materials. That’s why we provide a full range of LN₂ cryogenic storage solutions—from Dewars to large-capacity storage systems—designed to maintain sample integrity while supporting safe handling practices. Backed by expert guidance and nationwide distribution, our team helps laboratories, hospitals, and industrial facilities find the right cold-storage products for their specific needs.
When it comes to liquid nitrogen, the right equipment is just as important as the right protocol. Trust Lab Equipment Company to deliver both.
