Hydrogen Safety Code IS 15201
Hydrogen Safety Code IS 15201
IS 15201:2002
Indian Standard
HYDROGEN — CODE OF SAFETY
ICS 13.300;11.100.20
C)BIS 2002
BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS
MANAK BHAVAN, 9 BAHADUR SHAH ZAFAR MARG
NEW DELHI 110002
i“
lndustr-ial Safety and Chemical Hazards Sectional Committee, CHD 8
FOREWORD
This Indian Slandard was adopted by the Bureau of Indian Standards, after the draft finalized by the Industrial
Safely and chemical Hazards Sectional Committee had been approved by the Chemical Division Council.
Hydl ogen is used in the hydrogenation of edible and petroleum oils, in the synthesis of ammonia, methanol,
hydrochloric acid, aluminium alkyls, higher alcohols and aldehydes, in the reduction of metal oxides ( such as iron
ore) and in welding. Liquid hydrogen is an important cryogemc fluid.
Hydrogen is a highly flammable liquid or gas and has a dangerous fire and explosion hazard. Exposure to high
lc~cls of hydrogen g_asconcentration can cause suffocation for lack of oxygen. Contact with liquid hydrogen can
cause frostbite.
There is no 1S0 Standard on this subject. In the preparation of this Code, considerable assistance has been derived
from the following publications:
a) Sax’s Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, Volume No. 3, 10th edition, Wiley—Interscience
Publication, John Wiley and Sons. Inc., 2000.
b) Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, %h revised edition, United Nations, Geneva,
1995.
c) Material Safety Data Sheets, Phase-I, by Indian Chemical Manufacturers Association, 1991.
d) Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, Volume II, 3rd edition, Marshall Sittig,
Noycs Publications, Park Ridge, New Jersey, USA, 1991.
c) Chemical Safety Data Sheets, Flammable Chemicals, Volume 5, Royal Society of Chemistry, United
Kingdom, 1992.
~ Hydrogen: Production and Marketing, W. N. Smith, J. G. Santangel, ACS Symposium series 116,1980.
g) Encyclopedia of Chemistry, S. P. Parker, McGraw Hill, 1982.
h) Gaseous Hydrogen Stations, Industrial Gases Committee, 32 Boulevard de la Chapelle, 75880, Paris,
Ccdcx 18, France, September 1980.
The composition of the Committee responsible for formulation of this standard is given in Annex A.
IS 15201:2002
Indian Standard
HYDROGEN— CODE OF SAFETY
1.1 This code prescribes physical and chemical 1049 for gas (hydrogen, compressed), and
properties of hydrogen gas, the nature of hazards 1966 for liquid (refrigerated liquid).
associated with it, preventive measures for controlling 4
the hazards, and essential information on storage, 4.1.5 CASNumber
handling, labelling, transportation, waste disposal, 1333 -74-0
training of personnel, personal protective equipment,
first aid and tire fighting. 4.1.6 Class
1.2 This code does not, however, deal with any 2 (flanimable gas).
specification for design of buildings, chemical 4.1.? MolecularMass
engineering plants, method and ingredients used in the
manufacture, equipment for waste disposal and 2.01594.
operation control.
4.2 Physigal Properties
2 REFERENCES
4.2.1 Description
The Indian Standards listed below contain provisions
Colorless, odourless and tasteless gas.
which through reference in this text, constitute
provisions of this standard. At the time of publication, 4.2.2 Boiling Point
the editions indicated were valid. All standards are
(-) 252.8”C.
subject to revisions, and parties to agreements based
on this standard are encouraged to investigate the 4.2.3 Melting Point
possibility of applying the most recent editions of the
standards: (-) 259.2”C.
Hvdrogen is not toxic except that it may asphyxiate. It 7.1.1.1 Hydrogen must be stored to avoid contact with
n;ay displace the oxygen in a workplace atmosphere heat, flames, sparks and oxygen. Sources of ignition
and thus act as an asphyxiant. such as smoking and open flames are prohibited where
hydrogen is used, handled or stored.
5.2 Routes of Entry
7.1.1.2 Metal containers involving transfer of large
Skin and inhalation. quantities of hydrogen should be grounded and bonded.
Piping should be electrically bonded and grounded.
5.3 Health Effects
7.1.1.3 Containers must be equipped with self-closing
5.3.1 (.!ontac:t of [.iquid Hydrogen with Skin
valves, pressure vacuum bungs and flame arrestors.
Direct contact of body tissue with liquid hydrogen can
7.1.1.4 Only non-sparking tools and equipment,
cause cold burns or frost bite.
especially when opening and closing containers of
5.3.2 .4,@yxiation hydrogen should be used.
Hydrogen displaces the oxygen in the workplace 7.1.1.5 Wherever hydrogen is used (handled,
atmosphere. If atmosphere does not contain enough manufactured or stored), approved explosion-proof
oxygen then inhalation can cause dizziness, un- electrical equipment and fittings should be used.
consciousness or even death.
7.1.1.6 Automatic or manual shutdown processes,
6 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT sprinklers, gas and heat sensors with early warning
audio-visual alarms, flooding, water spraying,
6.1 General extinguishing systems, explosion relief devices should
be available in storage areas.
Personal protective equipment is not an adequate
substitute for good, safe working conditions, adequate 7.1.1.7 The building shall have good low and high
ventilation and intelligent conduct on the pafi’ of the level natural ventilation. In areas where natural
employees. One should keep firmly in mind that ventilation is not possible, forced ventilation equip-
personal pro[ect ive equipment protects only the pason ments should be installed.
wearing it and other unprotected workers in the area
may be exposed to danger. 7.1.2 Indoor Storage
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IS 15201:2002
7.1.3.2 Cylinders must be protected from direct sun 7.2.2.5 While handling by crane or derrick, a suitable ‘.,
rays. Prowsion of shed should be done for outdoor platform, cradle or boat should be used. Use rack or
storage of cylinders. chain to hold cylinders in place when hooked up for d
discharging.
7.1.4 Bulk Storage (Non-refrigerated)
7.2.2.6 Do not place or handle cylinders where they
7.1.4.1 Hydrogen is lighter than air and any leak goes might form part of an electrical circuit.
up the atmosphere readily. It shall be stored in gas tight ‘1
containers either in atmospheric condition or under 7.2.2.7 Do not remove protection cap unless ready to
pressure. withdraw hydrogen from the cylinder. Appropriate and
standard valves must be used. Explosive gas check of !
7.1.4.2 Storage area should be protected by tire valves and fittings should be done before usage.
hydrants and automatic sprinklers for extinguishing a ‘i
tire. 7.2.2.8 Use only standard colour code (Red colour
without any band) for hydrogen cylinders (see IS 4379).
7.1.4.3 The storage tanks shall be designed as per
standard code. 7.2.2.9 Cylinders for hydrogen, whether full or empty
should never be used as rollers for moving heavy or
7.1.4.4 Each storage tank shall be equipped with relief bulky articles.
valves. Vent pipes from the valves should terminate
upward and should have a flame arrestor. Suitable 7.2.2.10 No one should tamper with numbers,
provision should be nrdde to prevent anything from markings, or test dates stamped on cylinders.
entering the vents. A drain should also be arranged at 7.2.2.11 When the cylinder is empty, disconnect it,
the bottom of the vent pipe. Any discharge through the insert the valve plug and replace the cylinder protective
relief valves should not enter work area or contact cap.
source of ignition.
7.2.2.12 Store empty cylinders separate from filled
7.2 Handling cylinders and fasten an ‘EMPTY’ tag on cylinders
immediately upon emptying. Close valve, replace plug
7.2.1 General
or nut on valve outlet and secure valve protecting cap
7.2.1.1 Hydrogen should be handled wearing an snugly.
approved respirator, chemical resistant gloves and
7.3 Labelling
safety goggles and other protective clothing (see 6).
a) Any vessel containing hydrogen should carry an
7.2.1.2 Sources of ignition such as smoking and open identi~ing label or stencil. , ‘ ---’-A
flames are prohibited where hydrogen is handled. b) Label should be as per rules and regulations.
c) Each cylinder must be labelled with ~j
7.2.1.3 Safety recommendations and safe operating
procedures should be strictly followed by the persons ‘FLAMMAELE GAS’ ‘CLASS 2’.
handling hydrogen. 7.4 Transportation
7.2.2 Handling of Cylinders 7.4.1 Labelling
7.2.2.1 Before filling the cy~nder with hydrogen, Labels : Class 2 labels must be displayed on the
check and contlrm for its vdldlty. It shall have valid transport vehicle:
test certtilcate from the concerned authorities. Cylinder a) Compressed gas : UN No. 1049, and
must be hydraulically tested before filling hydrogen b) Refrigerated liquid : UN No. 1966.
gas. Both seller and consumer must verifi that the
period of date of testing is still valid. 7.4.2 Pre-departure Checks for Vehicles Carqying
Hydrogen in Cylinders in Manifold Systems Mounted
7.2.2.2 Cylinders should never be subjected to rough on Trucks
,
handling or to abnornral mechanical shock such as
dropping, bumping, dragging or sliding. They should 7.4.2.1 Prior to and after loading, the drivers must take
always be kept in vertical position. a complete inspection of the vehicle to ensure that it
meets all performance safety requirements and is
7.2.2.3 Ropes, slings, hooks, tongs and similar handling roadworthy for transporting hydrogen. A few of the
devices which may produce sparks or static electricity numerous items that are checked are the lights, tyres,
should not be used during handling and use of hydrogen suspensions and brakes.
cylinder.
7.4.2.2 The driver should maintain a log entry book
7.2.2.4 A suitable hand truck, fork truck or similar for critical parameters like pressure, etc, during transit.
device to which the cylinders can be firmly secured 7.4.2.3 Ensure availability of fire extinguishers
should be used for transporting the cylinders. ( DCP/carbon dioxide ) on the vehicle.
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IS 15201:2002
7.4.2.4 Ensureavailabilit yofemergency kit on the 8.1.2 If spills or leaks of hydrogen occur, only properly
vehicle. protected personnel should remain in the area and entry
to”others should be restricted.
7.4.2.5 Ensure availability of transport emergency
(TREM) card and instruction manual during 8.1.3 Eve~ organization handling hydrogen must form
transportation on the vehicle. an emergency response team, which is available round
the clock. Spills or leaks should be handled by the
7.4.3 During Transportation
emergen~ response team specially trained to handle
7.4.3.1 Do not smoke in the cabin. All sources of emergency situations.
ignition must be kept away from the truck during ~,
8.1.4 If spills or leaks develop, take measures to hasten I
tmnsportation. the dissipation of harmful vapours.
7.4.3.2 Driver should follow specified route only, 8.1.5 In case of a major spill or equipment rupture, the
maintain speed limit, never park the truck near
exposed area should be evacuated and unprotected
resident ia] areas, drive truck carefully and observe all
personnel must not re-enter the area unless declared
rules and signals, avoid overtaking of moving vehicles
safe.
and do not leave the truck without watch at anytime.
8.1.6 Proper respirato~protection should be provided
7.4.3.3 No repairs involving gas cutting, welding, etc,
for use by personnel entering the area for tests
should be done during transportation period. If required or to repair damaged equipment as high hydrogen
at all, repairs should be done by authorized and concentration may exist.
competent personnel of maintenance departnlent/plant
who are deputed by manufacturer/supplier. 8.1.7 Stop flow of gas/shut off leak, if it can be done
without risk.
7.4.3.4 The driver should physically inspect complete
mounting periodically and immediately report any 8.1.8 If source of a leak is a cylinder and the leak cannot
abnormality to the supplier. be stopped in place, remove the leaking cylinder to a
safe place in the open air, and repair leak or allow the
7.4.3.5 In case of emergency (for example leaks, fires, cylinder to empty.
accident, etc) follow the instructions mentioned in the
‘Instruction manual during transportation’ to control 8.1.9 In both gas or liquid spills, remove all ignition
and mitigate an emergency. Immediately contact sources.
nu]nufacturer/supplier, police, RTO, fire brigade and
8.2 Evacuation
other local authorities.
If the release is not contained in an appropriate device ..-.
7.4.4 Drivers Training
or system, all personnel not appropriately protected
7.4.4.1 The basics of any effective safety programme must evacuate the contaminated spaces. Evacuation
for transportation of hydrogen is adequate training. of additional areas should be considered as a precaution j
against the spread ofthe release or subsequent explosion
7.4.4.2 Each driver must be cmefidly selected and
or fire.
receive adequate amount of classroom training, audio-
visual instructions and job training. The training 8.3 Waste Disposal
must be done at certified regional training institutes.
To be burnt under control condition.
Management must personally qualifi each driver
before he is allowed to deliver hydrogen. 9 FIRE PREVENTION AND FIRE FIGHTING
7.4.4.3 Systematic traininghetraining and reviews must 9.1 General
be carried out to ensure that proficiency is maintained.
Drivers must be trained in the following: Hydrogen is highly flammable. Hydrogen flame is
almost invisible and can cause severe explosions. It is
a) Safe driving methods;
easily ignited with many sources of energy, some of
b) Actions to be taken during emergency which are listed below:
c) Proper use of fire extinguishers, emergency kits, a) Open flames;
TREM cards, instruction manuals, etc; and
b) Electrical equipments;
d) Communication with manufacturer/supplier. c) Electrostatic sparks;
8 SPILLAGE, LEAKAGE AND WASTE d) Sparks from striking objects;
DISPOSAL e) FrictiorK
8.1 SIJill:lge/Leill{t~ges f) Thermite sparks;
g) Air or oxygen, other oxidants;
8.1.1 Frequent inspections of equipment, containers h) Hot surfaces;
and vessels containing hydrogen should be made to j) Hot hydrogen leaking into ambient aiq dnd
detect or prevent leaks. k) Catalytic surfaces.
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IS 15201:2002
9.3.2.4 If the flow cannot be stopped, allow the contents 11 FIRST AID AND MEDICAL TREATMENT
of the cylinder to burn under control.
11.1 General Principles
9.3.2.5 If liquid hydrogen has ignited, use water to
keep fire exposed containers cool and to protect men First aid treatment should be started at once in all cases
trying to stop the source of a spill. of contact with hydrogen in any form or injury may
result. Refer all injured persons to a physician even
10 TRAINING AND HEALTH MONITORING when the injury appears to be slight. Give the physician
a detailed account of the accident.
10.1 Training
11.2 First Aid Treatment
10.1.1 All personnel engaged in the operation,
maintenance and attending emergency of hydrogen and 11.2.1 Inhalation /
related systems shall receive training suitable for the
\vork on which they are engaged. Inhalation of hydrogen gas causes asphyxiation.
Remove the affected person from exposure/
10.1.2 Training shall be armnged to cover all the contamination area. Place him in the recovery position
aspects and potential hazards that the particular operator as necessary. If breathing has stopped begin rescue
is likely to encounter. Training shall cover the breathing. If heart action has stopped begin CPR.
follo\ving areas: If medical oxygen and trained personnel are available,
a) The potential hazards of hydrogen, administer oxygen to the affected person. If un-
, !
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M 15201:2002
ANNEX A
( Foreword)
COMMITTEE COMPOSITION
Industrial Safety and Chemical Hazards Sectional Committee, CHD 8
Organization Representative(s)
National Safety Council, Mumbai SHRIK.C. GUPTA(Chairman)
Airports Authority of India, New Delhi REPRESENTATIVE
Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, Mumbai SHRIP. K. GHOSH
Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai DR B. N. RATHI
(lmtral 130iler Board, New Delhi REPRESENTATIVE
Century Rayon, Thane SHRIH. G. UITAMCHANDANI
SHRIS. K. MISHRA(Alternate)
Central Leather Research Institute, Chennai REPRESENTATIVE
Central Mining Research Institute, Jharkhand SHRIJ. K. PANDEY
Centml Warehousing Corporation, New Delhi REPRESENTATIVE
Confederation of Indian Industries, New Delhi REPRESENTATIVE
Dcpartmerrt of Explosives, Nagpur REPRESENTATIVE
Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, DR D. R. CHAWLA
Ncw Delhi
,-
Development Commissioner (SS1), New Delhi Representative .. .-’
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IS 15201:2002
(Continuedfiom page 6)
Organization Representative(s)
Ministry of Ddknce, Directorate of Standardization, SHRIP. S. AHUJA
New Delhi LT-COL TEJrNDERSIIWH (Alternate)
Ministry of Defence (OFB), Kolkata DR D. S. S. GANGULY
SHRI R. SRINIVASAN(Alternate)
Ministry of Defence (R&D), Kanpur DR A. K. SAXENA
DR RAJmDRASINGH (Alternate)
Ministry of Environment and Forest, New Delhi REPRESENTATWE
National Institute of Occupational Health, Ahmedabad RepreSentatiVe
National Organic Chemical Industries Limited, Thane DR B. V. BAPAT
SHRI V. R. NARLA (Alternate)
National Safety Council, Mumbai SHRIP. M. RAO
SHRID. BISWAS(Alternate)
Oil Industry Safety Directorate, New Delhi SHRIS. K.C~AKItABARTI
(A1/ernate)
SHRIV. K. SRIVASTAVA
Safety Appliances Manufacturers Association, Mumbai REpRESENTAmvE
Standing Fire Advisory Council, New Delhi Representative
Steel Authority of India Limited, Ranchi REPRESENTATIVE
SIEL Chemical Complex, New Delhi REPRESENTATIVE
Southern Petrochemical Industries Corporation Limited, SHRIV. JAYARAMAN
Tuticorin SHRI S. MURUGANADAM(Alternate)
Tata Al(l Risk Management Services Limited, Mumbai SHRIURMISHD. SHAH’
BIS Directorate General Director& Head (CHD)
SHRI S. K. CHAUDHURI,
[ Representing Director General (llr-o@cio) ]
h4ember Secretay
SHRIN. K. PAL
Director (CHD), BIS
fJ, #, -j
,’
BISis:i st:ltutoq institution established under the Bureuuo~lndian .7tandards Act, 1986 topronlote harnlonious
development of the activities of standardizal ion, marking and quality certification of goods and attending to
connected matters in the country.
Copyright
BIS has the copyright of all its publications. No part of these publications may be reproduced in any form
without the prior permission in writing of BIS. This does not preclude the free use, in the course of implementing
the standard, of necessary details, such as symbols and sizes, type or grade designations. Enquiries relating to
copyright be addressed to the Director (Publication), 131S.
Amendments are issued to standards as the need arises on the basis of comments. Standards are also reviewed
periodically; a standard along with amendments is reafllrmed when such review indicates that no changes are
needed: if the review indicates that changes are needed, it is taken up for revision. Users of Indian Standards
should ascertain that they are in possession of the latest amendments or edition by referring to the latest issue of
‘BIS Catalogue’ and’ Standards: Monthly Additions’.
This Indiml Standard has been developed from Dot: No. CHD 8 (1033).