General information about environmental safety at Linnaeus University

Here you will find information about substances that are prohibited, substances that require a permit or substances whose use is restricted by legislation. In some cases, the rules are linked to a sanction fee if they are not followed. Please note that chemical substances/products listed in REACH Annex XIV are prohibited from use in laboratory work in undergraduate education or equivalent. These substances can be searched for in KLARA.

The KLARA chemical management system is also a good tool for finding out whether the activity has products that are subject to other specific regulations and permit requirements.

Restrictions exist for handling and/or purchasing the following categories; in some cases a permit is required:

• Health-hazardous substances groups A and B
• Flammable goods
• Explosive precursors
• Narcotics
• Narcotics precursors
• Health-hazardous goods

Prohibited products include, for example

• Methylene chloride and trichloroethylene
• Mercury
• Ozone-depleting substances
• Additional prohibitions apply to activities within undergraduate education.

Other requirements that may arise include:

• Hygieniska gränsvärden för kemiska ämnen/produkter (in Swedish), Hygienic limit values for chemical substances/products
• Särskilda regler för CMR-klassade produkter (in Swedish), Special rules for CMR-classified products

How do we check that we do not have substances that require a permit?

By using the chemical management system KLARA, you can create a list for your own unit/department/equivalent of the chemicals you have. You can also create your own lists in KLARA.

Permits

Certain substances require a permit to be handled, for example certain carcinogenic, sensitising, allergenic or reproductively disruptive substances. More about chemical substances that require a permit or notification can be found in the Swedish Work Environment Authority's information about Chemical permits (in Swedish) and in the Swedish Work Environment Authority's provisions "Risks in the working environment" (in Swedish) there is a list in Appendix 1 of:

Group A: Substances that according to Chapter 8, section 21  may not be handled (in Sweish) Permits may be granted, for example, for research on carcinogenic substances or measurement methods. Permit requirements also apply to chemical products that contain such a substance as a contaminant in a concentration of 0.1 percent by weight or more.

Group B: Substances that according to 2014:43, section 47 may only be handled after permission from the Swedish Work Environment Authority (in Swedish) This concerns a group of substances that are carcinogenic, sensitising, allergenic or reproductively disruptive. A substance belonging to group B or a product containing such a substance in a concentration of 1% by weight or more may only be handled with the permission of the Swedish Work Environment Authority.

• The unit/department that will use the substance is responsible for applying for a permit and keeping a record of the application.
• Permits are valid for a limited period of time, usually 1-3 years.
• Violation of the permit provisions may result in a sanction fee.

Chemical products that are subject to permit requirements according to the provisions of Sections 7-14 of the Ordinance (2008:245, in Swedish) on chemical products and biotechnological organisms must also be stored in such a way that unauthorised persons cannot access them.

Flammable goods

Permits for flammable goods are applied for by the unit in question. For more information, see the subject pages for Fire protection under the heading Handling of flammable goods.

Explosive precursors

Explosive precursors include substances that can be used to manufacture homemade explosives. To prevent terrorism, such substances are therefore regulated by specific legislation within the EU, EU Regulation 2019/1148 on the marketing and use of explosive precursors, which regulates access to products containing explosive precursors. More information is available on the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency's (MSB) pages on Flammable and explosive substances (in Swedish). Information is also available in guidance from the European Commission on EU Regulation 2019/1148 on the marketing and use of explosives precursors.

Examples of explosive precursors include nitric acid, hydrogen peroxide and sulphuric acid, as well as ammonium nitrate, for example. For a complete list of substances and concentrations that are considered explosive precursors, see link: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/SV/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32019R1148

Certain explosive precursors are subject to restrictions on purchase.

Anyone who handles (stores and/or uses) explosive precursors regulated in EU Regulation 2019/1148 is required to report significant thefts and disappearances of these to the police within 24 hours of discovery.

Certain chemical substances are prohibited under the REACH Regulation, but a general exemption from permit requirements exists for use in scientific research and development, including teaching at universities, which means that a permit does not need to be applied for. However, the exemption may need to be certified in connection with purchases through an end-user declaration (EUD).

Narcotics, Narcotics Precursors, Hazardous Goods and Substances Under Investigation

• Narcotics, narcotics-classified medicines

Narcotics may be possessed without a licence by the head of a scientific institution owned or supported by the state, in accordance with the Narcotics Control Act (1992:860), Section 7. More information is available on the Swedish Medical Products Agency website.

Substances classified as narcotics are listed in the Swedish Medical Products Agency's regulation on lists of narcotics (LVFS 2011:10), and this regulation is regularly updated with new substances. Amendments to the regulations can be found on the Swedish Medical Products Agency's website under laws and regulations, listed by substance.

Requirements for handling narcotics and narcotics-classified medicines

• As the number of persons who are to have access to narcotics is limited, a list must be kept within the organisation documenting which persons are authorised to handle narcotics (in accordance with LVFS 2011:9 section 26). The narcotic substances handled must also be listed. This list must be updated as soon as a change occurs. The documentation must be kept for 5 years.
• Narcotics records ("record keeping") must always be kept so that all handling of narcotics and narcotic-classified medicines can be traced, i.e. quantities purchased/imported/exported/consumed or disposed of must be kept on an ongoing basis (handling must also be able to be reported upon request by the Swedish Medical Products Agency). Narcotics records must also be compiled for the calendar year, i.e. one compilation per year. The documentation must be kept for 5 years.
• The quantity of narcotics and narcotic-classified medicines must be inventoried at least once a year and the actual quantity must then be compared with the stock balance recorded in the narcotics records.
• If the actual quantity and recorded stock balance DO NOT match, the reason for the discrepancy must be stated. If the deviation cannot be explained, the head of department/equivalent must be informed. If there is suspicion of loss/theft, the head of department/equivalent must inform the head of security.
• There are requirements for the storage location so that only those who are authorised to handle narcotics have access, which means separate storage in a locked cabinet or equivalent.

Narcotics precursors

• One way to restrict the supply of illegal narcotics is to restrict the supply of the chemicals needed for their manufacture. Here, among other things, there is ongoing collaboration between industry organisations and authorities such as the Swedish Medical Products Agency, the National Criminal Police and the Swedish Customs.

Registration of possession may be required

When the quantity during a calendar year does not exceed the following values, no registration is required:
Acetone 50 kilograms, Ethyl ether 20 kilograms, Methyl ethyl ketone 50 kilograms, Toluene 50 kilograms, Sulphuric acid 100 kilograms Acetic anhydride 100 litres, Potassium permanganate 100 kilograms, Anthranilic acid 1 kilogram, Phenylacetic acid 1 kilogram, Piperidine 0.5 kilograms, Red phosphorus 0.1 kilograms, Hydrochloric acid 100 kilograms.

Updated information on which substances are classified as narcotics precursors, as well as forms, can be found at the Swedish Medical Products Agency's website on narcotics precursors.

Health-hazardous goods

Health-hazardous goods are substances which, due to their inherent properties, pose a danger to human life or health and which are used or can be assumed to be used for the purpose of intoxication or other effects. In order to limit the availability of certain substances that are hazardous to health, a permit from the Public Health Agency of Sweden is required before they can be used. The Public Health Agency of Sweden's website contains information about which hazardous chemicals are covered and how to apply for a permit.

The latest update of which substances are covered by the requirements for goods hazardous to health can be found in the appendix to Regulation (1999:58) on the prohibition of certain goods hazardous to health. To ensure that the latest version is used, it can always be found on the Swedish Parliament website. The new version of the appendix is always at the end of the web document, so a tip is to scroll down from the bottom.

Prohibited products – examples

• Methylene chloride and trichloroethylene
• Mercury
  • General information about mercury and its risks can be found at the Swedish Chemicals Agency's page on mercury and in Chapter 7, Mercury and mercury-containing goods, in KIFS 2017:7, as well as in Regulation (1998:944) on prohibitions etc. in certain cases in connection with the handling, import and export of chemical products.
• Ozone-depleting substances
  • Information about ozone-depleting substances is available at the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency's website on ozone-depleting substances.
  • There are common rules within the EU for ozone-depleting substances for laboratory and analytical work. This is regulated in EU Regulation No 1005/2009 on substances that deplete the ozone layer and No 291/2011 on essential uses of controlled substances other than hydrochlorofluorocarbons for laboratory and analytical purposes.
  • A summary of the so-called essential uses, which involve the permitted use of various ozone-depleting substances, can be found in the Licensing manual for ozone depleting substances (ODS)
• Chemical substances/products prohibited in education
  
  • Chemical substances/products listed in REACH Annex XIV are prohibited for use in laboratory work in undergraduate education or equivalent. Here you will find the list of authorisations in REACH Annex XIV.

Other requirements

Hygienic limit values for chemical substances/products

Chemical substances/products may have hygienic limit values, this applies to dust, smoke, mist, gas and vapour and the limit values ​​are binding (must be followed). The hygienic limit value for a substance is the highest concentration of the substance that is acceptable in the workplace. There are chemical substances that can be absorbed into the body both via the lungs and through the skin. This applies especially to substances that are liquids or gases. Substances that can be easily absorbed into the body through the skin are marked with an H in the limit value list.

The Swedish Work Environment Authority provisions Hygienic limit values ​​(AFS 2023:14) have a limit value list in alphabetical order of the substances for which limit values ​​exist. For some substances, information is also available in the KLARA chemicals management system; see link in the column on the right. More information about air pollution and limit values ​​is also available on the  Swedish Work Environment Authority web pages about air pollution and limit values.

Permit to handle animal by-products

Materials that come from animals are called animal by-products and are defined as "materials from the animal kingdom that are not food and that have not yet been processed or treated into manufactured products". Examples of animal by-products are dead animals and by-products from slaughtered animals, e.g. blood, which are not intended for food and are used in research. Wool, feathers, eggs, embryos and sperm, cell lines and serum of animal origin; proteins and antibodies are also included in the concept of animal by-products. If it is a commercial product available on the EU market, it must always originally come from an approved facility and you do not need a special permit to use it. More information about animal by-products can be found on the Swedish Board of Agriculture's website on products from animals.

To use animal by-products in research, a permit from the Swedish Board of Agriculture is required. Parts of animals that were food until they were released from, for example, a slaughterhouse or supermarket, such as the trachea, hear or, lungs, may be used in teaching without a permit.

Otherwise, special rules also apply regarding waste disposal; see the subject pages for Waste under the heading Laboratory waste on Linnaeus University's environmental safety pages.

Export permits  

It is not only products that can be classified as dual-use items (abbreviated to PDA in Swedish) under the PDA Regulation. Technology for the development, production or use of certain products may also be subject to a permit requirement for export or transfer. In research, there are export permit requirements for strategically sensitive products. Read more at Inspection for Strategic Products, ISP

Requirements for other types of permit  

In research, there are also a number of other requirements for various types of permit, such as ethics approval, clinical drug trial permit or access to biobank samples.

An employer who has been notified that an employee is pregnant or breastfeeding must immediately investigate whether the person is exposed to physical factors, strain, infectious agents, chemical substances or processes in their work that may pose a risk to the person and the unborn or born child. The same procedure also applies to students. The employer must also assess the risk of harmful effects on pregnancy or breastfeeding or other ill health. The risk assessment must take into account the nature, degree and duration of exposure. The employer must then decide what measures need to be taken. The employer is required by law to provide information about this procedure and staff are required to report pregnancy or breastfeeding early to avoid risk.

Here is a link to the Swedish Work Environment Authority provisions AFS 2023:2 on systematic work environment management and in Chapter 7 you can read more about the legislation on pregnant and breastfeeding employees. See also Appendix 1, “Work environment factors and working conditions for pregnant, newly delivered and breastfeeding employees” and “Risks in the work environment for pregnant and breastfeeding employees”: www.av.se/halsa-och-sakerhet/graviditet-och-amning/risker-i-arbetsmiljon-for-gravida-och-ammande/

The work environment for pregnant and breastfeeding employees must therefore be specifically examined and the risk of harmful effects on pregnancy or breastfeeding or other ill health must be assessed. If the results show that there are risks, measures must be taken immediately to eliminate them. The risk assessment module in KLARA addresses work tasks and circumstances that are particularly risky under point 18 and a special, separate risk assessment must always be prepared if pregnant or breastfeeding women are to perform laboratory work that involves the risks above. Template available here. If the assessed risks cannot be eliminated, measures that are reasonable or practically possible must be taken by the employer to give the employee other work tasks.

Physical factors may be: vibration, shocks, noise, radiation, extreme temperatures

Stress may be: particularly problematic working postures and movements, heavy lifting

Processes may be: production of harmful substances, exposure to harmful substances such as wood dust from hardwood, PAHs or flue gases.

Infectious agents: covered by risk classes 2, 3 and 4 if they are known to pose a risk to the woman, foetus or child. (See AFS 2018:7)

Chemical substances: include in particular CMR-classified substances, mercury and its compounds, lead and its compounds, cytostatics, CO and substances that penetrate the skin.

Chemical products that require special attention are those labelled with the following hazard statements in accordance with the CLP Regulation (see the product's SDS). Read more in AFS 2014:41

H340: May cause genetic defects.

H341: Suspected of causing genetic defects.

H350: May cause cancer.

H351: Suspected of causing cancer.

H360: May damage fertility or the unborn child.

H361: Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child.

H362: May cause harm to breastfed infants.

H370: Causes damage to organs.

H371: May cause damage to organs.

According to the Work Environment Act and the Swedish Work Environment Authority's provisions and general advice on systematic work environment management and planning and organisation (AFS 2023:1 and AFS 2023:2), the employer must take into account the particular risk of ill health that may arise from the employee performing work alone. In this respect, students are treated as equivalent to employees.

Working alone means that an employee either works in physical isolation and requires some form of communication equipment to contact other people or works in social isolation in a place where there are people nearby but where the employee cannot be sure of receiving the right help in a critical situation.

Working alone should be limited and, if possible, avoided altogether. To a certain extent, however, there may still be situations where working alone can cause injury due to the physical environment, e.g. working with gas or hazardous chemicals in small, enclosed spaces, working with machinery with moving parts, repair work or working in confined spaces where there is a risk of tripping or getting stuck.

When planning solitary work that is considered risky or stressful for the employee, it is important that the employer is informed and that the risks are assessed and appropriate measures planned. Particular attention should be paid to ensuring that the employee has sufficient training, information and instruction to be able to perform the work alone.

When assessing the risks of potentially hazardous solitary work, an assessment must be made of the level of communication requirements required to ensure that any injury sustained while performing the work does not lead to more serious consequences. Such requirements may, for example, include a requirement that another person be present nearby who, in addition to other duties, is responsible for regularly monitoring the situation and intervening if necessary. Another way to meet communication requirements may be to ensure that the employee has the technical means to contact a colleague regularly, e.g. by telephone or similar. You may also consider having the employee report regularly to an agreed person while working alone.

Note that camera surveillance at work is regulated by the Camera Surveillance Act (2018:1200).

With regard to working alone in the evenings and at weekends, the risk of threats and violence from outsiders should also be taken into account.

According to the replacement principle in the Environmental Code (SFS 1998:808, Chapter 2, Section 4), efforts should be made to replace chemical products and substances that are hazardous to health and the environment with less hazardous alternatives through active product selection and substitution. The replacement principle applies even if a chemical product that is hazardous to health and the environment is handled safely. This means that the replacement principle cannot be replaced by the precautionary principle, but applies alongside it.

Chemical products that are hazardous to health and the environment

All hazardous substances can be advantageously substituted as a preventive measure to reduce the risk of negative health and environmental effects. The product selection principle (substitution principle) described in the Environmental Code means that, as far as possible, one should avoid using chemical products that may pose a risk to people or the environment if they can be replaced with products that can be assumed to be less dangerous.

The following substance categories are considered to be chemical products hazardous to health and the environment and have properties that can result in serious and lasting effects on human health and the environment:

• CMR substances (carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction)
• Allergenic substances.
• PBT substances (persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic) and vPvB substances (very persistent and very bioaccumulative).
• PMT substances (persistent, mobile and toxic) or vPvM substances (very persistent and very mobile).
• Particularly hazardous metals (e.g. cadmium, mercury and lead).
• Endocrine disruptors (e.g. bisphenol A and phthalates).
• Endocrine disrupting substances that are harmful to the environment.
• Ozone-depleting substances.

These substance categories are considered phase-out or risk reduction substances and are therefore included on the PRIO list. This list has been drawn up in light of the EU's REACH chemicals legislation. It primarily includes substances with properties that meet the criteria for being SVHC substances (substances of very high concern) in the EU's REACH chemicals legislation or substances that are particularly hazardous according to Sweden's national environmental quality objective, A Non-Toxic Environment, which need to be substituted. The substances that have been identified as SVHCs to date are listed in the candidate list in the REACH Regulation.

It is important to note that, according to the Swedish Work Environment Authority's provisions AFS 2023:10 Risks in the work environment, Chapter 8, Section 14 , CMR substances may not be handled without first conducting a substitution investigation.

The easiest way to find out if a department or unit has products on the Candidate List is by searching for them in the KLARA database. Employees who have authorisation in KLARA can see their total holdings of chemicals stored in the department or unit in question and also obtain lists from KLARA of chemical substances, mixtures and kits that are on the candidate list and need to be investigated for substitution. This applies provided that all products in the department or unit are inventoried in the system.

Substitution and phasing out of hazardous chemical products

When working with chemical products that are hazardous to health and the environment, which fall within the substance categories listed above, these products should be substituted if possible. Often, a process called the substitution ladder is used:

Swedish Chemicals Agency

The steps of the substitution ladder are:

1. Obtain information about chemicals used
2. Identify unwanted substances
3. Inventory alternative substances/technical solutions
4. Assess and select alternative substances/technical solutions
5. Develop new alternative substances/technical solutions

In practical terms, substitution means investigating and replacing chemical products that are hazardous to health and the environment with chemical products that pose less risk. This can be done by either replacing an individual chemical product or switching to another method where less hazardous products and substances are used.

If the substitution investigation shows that a substitution to a less hazardous product is not possible, the amount of hazardous products used should instead be minimized, for example by working on a smaller scale and conducting fewer experiments if possible, limiting the amounts of chemical products by discarding old products and those that are not used, ordering smaller amounts of new chemical products, purchasing kits and ready-made solutions instead of pure and concentrated products, which reduces the time the products that are hazardous to health and the environment must be handled.

To investigate whether it is possible to substitute a chemical product or substance, the substitution investigation form is used. See link on LnU's environmental safety page.

Here you can read more about substitution investigation:

• Substitution centre
• PRIO - Substitution guide
• SIN list (Chemsec)
• SUBSPORTplus

Medical check-ups are important for detecting early signs of ill health, disease or injury. A medical check-up means a medical examination of an employee which may include physical examinations, sample collection, interviews and questionnaires. Medical checks should also be offered in cases where a risk assessment of the work has shown that it is justified.

The Swedish Work Environment Authority has produced guidance on the regulations on medical checks, aimed at employers. It states what is required for each type of work that is covered by the regulations on medical checks (AFS 2023:15).

For certain types of work, there are legal requirements that the employer must arrange medical checks. Sometimes medical checks should be offered before the work begins and sometimes on a regular basis during employment. For certain jobs, a certificate of fitness for employment is also required in order to be employed in that job, and such a certificate must be presented during any inspection by the Swedish Work Environment Authority. Certificates of fitness for employment must also be recorded.

Medical checks are voluntary for employees. When they are carried out, the employee must receive feedback on the results and the employer must receive feedback on the assessment (unless confidentiality applies).

In the following cases, the employer/work environment coordinator must arrange for a medical check:

• Work involving exposure to vibration
• Hand-intensive work
• Night work
• Work with allergenic chemical products. (May sometimes also require a certificate of fitness for employment.) See AFS 2023:15)
• Other work when a risk assessment shows that it is justified

The employer must arrange medical checks for employees who will be employed or are employed in work that involves exposure to hazardous chemical products that are classified as H317 or H334 under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP) due to their content of acrylates, epoxy plastic component, or formaldehyde resins. Read more about the CLP Regulation on the Swedish Chemicals Agency website.

The first paragraph, regarding requirements for medical checks, does not apply if the employer's risk assessment shows that exposure to the above-mentioned substances is negligible, even if personal protective equipment is not used. The reasons why the exposure is considered negligible must be documented in writing.

The employer must arrange medical checks with assessment for a certificate of fitness for employment for employees who will be employed or are employed in work that involves exposure to the following:

• Hazardous chemical products that are classified as H334 under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP) due to their content of diisocyanates, or organic acid anhydrides.
• Chemical substances and mixtures containing ethyl-2-cyanoacrylate, if the work lasts more than 30 minutes per week in total, or methyl-2-cyanoacrylate, if the work lasts more than 30 minutes per week in total.
• Diisocyanates formed when a substance breaks down into smaller components when heated, i.e. thermal decomposition.

The first paragraph does not apply if the employer's risk assessment shows that exposure to the above-mentioned substances in the air is negligible, even if respiratory protective equipment is not used. The reasons why the exposure is considered negligible must be documented in writing.

Medical examinations must be offered and include certificates of fitness for employment in the following cases, for example:

• Work with fibrogenic dust, asbestos, inorganic fibres and quartz 
• Certain allergenic substances (see AFS 2023:15)
• Work with lead, cadmium and mercury (here, the employer must also offer biological exposure monitoring)
• Tasks that involve extreme physical strain: climbing with a large difference in level, smoke and chemical diving and diving work. 

In addition to the above-mentioned work, there is also a requirement to offer examinations for

• Work with laboratory animals (AFS 2023:1, 2023:10, 2023:11, 2023:12, 2023:15) 
• Work with noise that is harmful to hearing (AFS 2023:1, 2023:10, 2023:11) 
• Work with infection risks (AFS 2023:1, 2023:10) 
• Work with artificial optical radiation (AFS 2023:1, 2023:10) 
• Work with ionising radiation (SSMFS 2018:1) 

A gas is defined in the Swedish Work Environment Authority's provisions as a substance in a gaseous state, a substance in a liquid state (condensed gas) whose vapour pressure is higher than 3 bar (0.3 MPa, absolute pressure) at +50℃, and carbon dioxide in a solid statea. Work with gases is regulated in the Swedish Work Environment Authority's provisions 2023:1 Systematic work environment management, 2023:10 Risks in the work environment and 2023:11 Work equipment and personal protective equipment. In addition to this document, local regulations may exist and must be taken into account.

The state of aggregation of a substance (solid, liquid or gas) is determined by the substance's surroundings. With changes in pressure and temperature, the substance can transition from one state to another. Handling of gas often takes place at high pressure, which places great demands on the material. A pressurised device may not be used at higher or lower pressures and temperatures than those assessed by the manufacturer or an accredited inspection body.

Examples of pressurised devices include gas cylinders, gas pipelines, fire extinguishers and autoclaves.

If a gas container ruptures for any reason, people in the immediate vicinity may be injured by the gas or by the container itself. Injuries can then occur through suffocation, fire or explosion, from the pressure wave from the gas release or from flying material. The gas can also spread over a wide area and then it is mainly the chemical properties of the gas that can cause injury. The dispersion of the gas depends on its physical properties such as the density of the gas in relation to the air, temperature and external factors such as wind direction and wind speed. Heavy and cold gases spread along the ground while light gases rise upwards.

In the event of an accident, block off the area and warn personnel and the surrounding area. Only people needed for rescue work are allowed in the risk area. Damaged cylinders must be marked and the gas supplier must be informed before further handling/transportation of the vessel.

A risk assessment must be carried out in all operations where gas is handled. When the process, equipment or operating conditions change, a new risk assessment must be carried out. Based on the risk assessment, the necessary measures must be taken to ensure safety. There are several different risks to consider when handling gas. This primarily concerns the risks of inhalation, splashes on the skin or in the eyes, suffocation, and fire and explosion. The effect that the gas causes depends, among other things, on which gas it is, the concentration to which the person is exposed and the duration of exposure. If the risk of splashes or other contact cannot be ruled out, personal protective equipment that provides adequate protection must also be used. Gas detectors/alarms should be used when the risk assessment requires it.

In premises where gas is handled, ventilation shall be such that the oxygen concentration in the air does not normally fall below 20 per cent by volume and does not exceed 22 per cent by volume. If the oxygen concentration falls below 18 per cent by volume, breathing apparatus must be used when working in the premises.

In the event of a serious accident or incident, the employer must report this as soon as possible to the Swedish Work Environment Authority. The employer is responsible for ensuring that accidents and incidents involving the use of pressurised devices are documented and investigated, and that necessary measures identified in the investigation are implemented.

Gas cylinders

Gases, like other chemicals, must be registered in the chemicals register KLARA (for more information, see the heading "KLARA" on the environmental safety page). The unit must also have operating and maintenance procedures that describe cylinder replacement, maintenance/inspection of gas regulators, connections to equipment etc. Gas pipe systems must be checked annually.

Gas cylinders should primarily be stored in designated gas storage facilities, where flammable and non-flammable gases are stored separately. Work premises may only contain the number of gas cylinders required for the performance of the work. To prevent a gas cylinder from falling/tipping, the cylinder must be secured in place, e.g. to a wall bracket, gas cart or other device, and it must always stand upright. The securing device shall be designed so that the cylinder can be easily removed without the use of tools, enabling it to be easily taken to safety in the event of a fire. In cases where gas cylinders are connected to equipment and therefore time-consuming to disconnect, the emergency services must be informed of this.

Cylinders are moved around on carts designed for the purpose. All transport of gas cylinders, both empty and filled, is considered transport of dangerous goods. Smaller, loose containers should be handled and placed in a manner that is appropriate from a safety perspective. The main valve on gas cylinders should be closed when the gas is not in use. If the gas cylinder contains flammable gas, there is a risk that a flammable gas mixture will occur in the event of a leak. Special care must be taken to avoid ignition (documented in the risk assessment).

Warning signs for gas cylinders (CLP hazard pictogram: black symbol on a white background with a red frame, with the text "gas under pressure") must be placed on the gas cylinder, on the door to the room/cabinet where gas cylinders are stored and on the door to the space (e.g. corridor, fire cell) that leads to the storage room. Gas pipes are also marked in each room.

Flammable and fire-supporting gases

• LPG

LPG is a composition of mostly propane (C₃H₈) and smaller parts of butane (C₄H₁₀) and ethane (C₂H₆). The gas is colourless and has a characteristic odour due to the addition of an odorant. LPG is a heavy gas and, if released, can penetrate into low-lying spaces.

The gas is stored under pressure as a condensed (liquid) gas in gas cylinders. Common types of cylinders are the smaller blue-painted so-called camping cylinders (190, 340, 1200 and 2000 g of gas) and the larger silver-grey steel cylinders marked P and a number where the number indicates the weight of the gas (kg). The larger cylinder types are used in central LPG pipeline systems.

LPG cylinders should be handled with care and protected from abnormal heating. The cylinders should always be handled and stored upright. When in storage, the bottles should have the valve closed. Labels or other markings must not be removed.

LPG is considered extremely flammable and leaking gas requires only a very small ignition energy to ignite. A gas/air mixture can cause a gas cloud explosion. Because the gas is stored under pressure (7 bar at normal room temperature) in the cylinders, only equipment intended for this pressure may be connected to the cylinder outlet. Abnormal heating of the gas cylinders causes an increase in pressure in the cylinder.

Pressure relief in the form of a safety valve is found on all types of gas cylinders. The safety valve's function and a safe gas outlet are based on the cylinder always being in an upright position. A horizontal cylinder can cause a direct discharge of the liquid phase, which poses a major risk.

The gas has a strong cooling effect and escaping gas and uninsulated equipment can cause frostbite.

• Acetylene

Acetylene, sometimes referred to as welding gas, is the product name for ethyne, C₂H₂, and is a colourless gas with a faint garlic-like odour. The gas is stored in gas cylinders under pressure (20 bar) dissolved in solvent (acetone or DMF). The cylinders are painted entirely in reddish brown.

Acetylene is considered extremely flammable and leaking gas requires only a very small ignition energy to ignite. A gas/air mixture can cause a gas cloud explosion. The gas is unstable and begins to decompose when heated above 300°C. The decomposition can be started by external heating of the cylinder, for example in a fire or spot heating from a welding flame. Decomposition can also be initiated by a complete blowback. Pressure relief in the form of a safety valve is not found on acetylene gas cylinders. The decomposition results in a pressure increase and violent bursting of the cylinder. In case of severe heating, the vessel can burst within 5 minutes. Risk persists up to 24 hours after the heating has ended.

If you suspect a blowback or overheating of the acetylene cylinder above 300°C and the start of acetylene decomposition, evacuate the premises and call the emergency services.

Explosive compounds may form if the gas comes into contact with copper, silver, mercury or brass containing more than 70% copper. Because the gas is stored under high pressure in the cylinders, only equipment intended for this pressure may be connected to the cylinder outlet. When welding, a blowback arrestor for acetylene must be used (also recommended for oxygen). Check valves must be fitted to the burner handles for both acetylene and oxygen.

In the event of uncontrolled release of acetylene, the premises must be evacuated and ventilated. If possible, turn off the gas flow and avoid ignition of the gas as much as possible by eliminating any ignition sources. Always check the gas content in the premises before resuming activities. If the leaking gas catches fire, extinguish it by shutting off the gas supply. If the burning gas is extinguished without stopping the gas flow, there is a risk of reignition and explosion.

Acetylene has a suffocating effect when inhaled because it displaces oxygen from the air. If the gas is inhaled and breathing difficulties occur, the person should be taken to fresh air. Artificial respiration should be given if breathing has stopped.

The gas cylinders should be handled with care and protected from abnormal heating. Gas equipment should be checked regularly for function and leaks. When stored, the cylinders should have the valve closed and the stopper tightened, and be secured so that they cannot fall over and be damaged. Labels or other markings must not be removed.

• Hydrogen

Hydrogen, H₂, is a colourless and odourless gas. The gas is stored under high pressure in gas cylinders. Available cylinder types are 5, 10, 20 and 50 litres. They have a black painted cylinder with a red top.

Hydrogen is considered extremely flammable and leaking gas requires only a very small ignition energy to ignite. A hydrogen/air mixture (oxyhydrogen) can cause a gas cloud explosion. Hydrogen burns/explodes in a gas/air mixture of between 4.0 and 75 vol%. Because hydrogen is lighter than air, the gas initially accumulates at the ceiling before later diffusing into the room. This should be taken into account especially when protecting against ignition sources. The gas has a high tendency to leak, which should be taken into account when inspecting the gas system. The gas is stored under high pressure (200 bar) in the cylinders and only equipment designed for this pressure may be connected to the cylinder outlet. Abnormal heating of the hydrogen cylinder causes an increase in pressure in the cylinder, which can lead to bursting. Pressure relief in the form of a safety valve is not found on hydrogen gas cylinders.

In the event of uncontrolled release of hydrogen, the premises must be evacuated and ventilated. If possible, turn off the gas flow and avoid ignition of the gas as much as possible by eliminating any ignition sources. Always check the gas content in the premises before resuming activities. If the leaking gas catches fire, extinguish it by shutting off the gas supply. If the burning gas is extinguished without stopping the gas flow, there is a risk of reignition and explosion.

Hydrogen has a suffocating effect when inhaled because it displaces oxygen from the air. If the gas is inhaled and breathing difficulties occur, the person should be taken out to fresh air. Artificial respiration should be given if breathing has stopped.

Hydrogen cylinders should be handled with care and protected from abnormal heating. Gas equipment should be checked regularly for function and leaks. When stored, the cylinders should have the valve closed and the stopper tightened, and be secured so that they cannot fall over and be damaged. Labels or other markings must not be removed.

• Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide, CO, is a colourless and odourless gas. The gas is stored under high pressure in gas cylinders. They have a black painted cylinder with a red top.

Carbon monoxide is considered extremely flammable and leaking gas requires only a very small ignition energy to ignite. The gas mixes easily with air. Because the gas is stored under high pressure (200 bar) in the cylinders, only equipment intended for this pressure may be connected to the cylinder outlet. Abnormal heating of the gas cylinder causes an increase in pressure in the cylinder, which can lead to bursting. Pressure relief in the form of a safety valve is not found on the cylinders. In the event of uncontrolled release of carbon monoxide, the premises must be evacuated and ventilated. If possible, turn off the gas flow and avoid ignition of the gas as much as possible by eliminating any ignition sources. If the leaking gas catches fire, extinguish it by shutting off the gas supply and using water spray (not a jet) or dry powder.

Carbon monoxide has a suffocating effect when inhaled by preventing red blood cells from absorbing oxygen. If the gas is inhaled and breathing difficulties occur, the person should be taken out to fresh air. Provide respiratory support if breathing has stopped and always call an ambulance. CO is reproductively toxic.

Carbon monoxide cylinders should be handled with care and protected from abnormal heating. Gas equipment should be checked regularly for both function and leaks.

When stored, the cylinders should have the valve closed and the stopper tightened, and be secured so that they cannot fall over and be damaged. Labels or other markings must not be removed.

• Oxygen

Oxygen, O₂, is not a flammable gas and is therefore not covered by the requirements for flammable goods. However, the gas is oxidising and supports combustion. The gas is stored under pressure (200 bar). The cylinders are black painted with a white top.

The gas is oxidising and facilitates ignition and accelerates the fire process, which can become explosive. When oxygen is released, the oxygen content must never be allowed to exceed 24% in the room.

Local exhaust suction and good ventilation must be provided. Gas equipment should be kept free of oil, grease and other particles to avoid spontaneous combustion. Only sealing materials and lubricants approved for the gas may be used. Because the gas is stored under high pressure in the cylinders, only equipment intended for this pressure may be connected to the cylinder outlet. Valves should be opened carefully so that the gas equipment is not exposed to pressure surges and strong gas discharge. Abnormal heating of the cylinder causes an increase in pressure in the cylinder, which can lead to bursting. Pressure relief in the form of a safety valve is not found on oxygen gas cylinders.

In the event of uncontrolled release of oxygen, the premises must be evacuated and ventilated. Clothes should also be aired. Fires in oxygen-enriched clothing cannot be extinguished by smothering, but must be cooled and extinguished with water. If possible, turn off the gas flow.

The gas cylinders should be handled with care and protected from abnormal heating. When stored, the cylinders should have the valve closed and the valve cover attached and be secured so that they cannot fall over and be damaged. Labels or other markings must not be removed. Storage should be separated from ignition sources in well-ventilated areas at temperatures below 50°C.

Non-flammable gas that may pose a hazard

• Sulphur dioxide

Sulphur dioxide is a colourless, irritating and corrosive gas with a pungent, bitter odour. Sulphur dioxide gas is heavier than air and in the event of a leak, a mist of vaporised sulphuric acid forms.

The gas corrodes most metals, especially in high humidity, and damages textiles and leather. It may react violently with alkali. Condensed sulphur dioxide also corrodes plastics and rubber.

Sulphur dioxide is not flammable or explosive, but moist sulphur dioxide can react with metals to form highly flammable hydrogen gas. Like other gases stored under pressure, sulphur dioxide cylinders must be handled with care and may explode if heated. Cylinders are stored locked in a well-ventilated place with temperatures below 50°C. The cylinders are grey-painted with a yellow top.

Sulphur dioxide gas irritates the eyes and respiratory tract, causing tears and coughing. The gas may cause chemical burns, especially on moist skin areas. At high concentrations (approx. 400 ppm), the gas is lethal if inhaled.

• Ammonia

Ammonia is a colourless, toxic and corrosive gas with a strong pungent odour. It is a lighter gas than air and rises when released. In humid environments, ammonia gas creates vapours that are heavier than air and these can be particularly dangerous in an airless environment. The gas is water-soluble and highly reactive and can cause severe burns to the skin and eyes. It is also very toxic to aquatic organisms. The gas is flammable and containers must not be exposed to heat, hot surfaces, sparks or open flames. Ammonia is incompatible with aluminium, brass, copper, nylon and Viton, among other things.

Ammonia is both toxic and corrosive, so handling must be done with caution as concentrations of around 500 ppm can be fatal, but since the odour threshold is around 5 ppm, there is a certain safety margin between the smell of ammonia being detected and the conditions starting to become dangerous. When ammonia gas is inhaled in high concentrations, there is a risk of respiratory problems and lung damage. Do not induce vomiting and seek hospital treatment.

Ammonia has a special place among flammable goods as it is subject to certain special regulations. Since the flammability range for ammonia is between 15-30%, this means that it is categorised as a flammable gas category 2 (= not flammable at a concentration of 13% or lower) according to the CLP Regulation. This means that ammonia is exempt from the permit requirement for handling flammable goods and that the handling of ammonia is exempt from the provisions in the consultation for the new regulations on handling flammable gas. Because the flammability range is limited and requires such high concentrations, ammonia was previously considered not to give rise to an explosive atmosphere. But that has changed, which means that handling ammonia under high pressure requires that a classification plan be established.

When using: flush the system with inert gas (e.g. N₂ or He) both before and after using NH₃ and especially avoid backflow of water, acid or alkali into the system. In case of accidental release: be aware that an explosive atmosphere may form. Use fresh air ventilation and chemical protective clothing in the risk area. Try to stop the leak.

The gas cylinders have a yellow top and should be stored in a locked space, handled with care and protected from abnormal heating. When stored, the cylinders should have the valve closed and the valve cover attached and be secured so that they cannot fall over and be damaged. Labels or other markings must not be removed. Storage should be separated from ignition sources in well-ventilated areas at temperatures below 50°C.

• Liquid nitrogen

Liquid nitrogen is a colourless and odourless liquid with a temperature of -196°C. Due to its low temperature, liquid nitrogen can cause severe frostbite when in contact with the skin and also when the skin is in contact with chilled equipment. The eyes are particularly sensitive and must always be protected from splashes. Nitrogen is an inert gas that is non-toxic and non-flammable. At normal pressure and temperature, nitrogen gas takes up about 700 times as much space as the liquid. Spilled liquid evaporates quickly and turns into a gas that is cold and heavier than air and spreads along the floor. When gasifying liquid nitrogen, there is a risk of displacement of oxygen from the air, which can lead to oxygen deficiency, especially in small spaces.

Liquid nitrogen is neither oxidising nor flammable in itself. However, under certain circumstances, air can condense if it comes into contact with uninsulated chilled equipment. The condensed air dripping from the equipment will have an elevated oxygen content (because oxygen has a higher boiling point than nitrogen). This leads to an increased risk of fire when in contact with flammable materials.

• Handling

When handling liquid nitrogen, only thermoses, vessels, pipes etc. that are intended for the purpose and capable of being handled/transported safely should be used. The material must be completely and fully functional. The risk assessment must specify which personal protective equipment should be used during internal transport, filling and handling of liquid nitrogen. In general, protective coats, full-coverage shoes, thermal gloves and visors are required. Closed cryogenic vessels must be insulated so that they do not become covered with frost. Closed cryogenic vessels must be equipped with at least one pressure relief device.

• Storage

Nitrogen tanks must be anchored in carts recommended by the manufacturer or supplier of the nitrogen tanks. In premises or other spaces where work is carried out, there may only be the number of pressurised gas cylinders needed for the work to be carried out.

• Transport

Indoor transport of containers with liquid nitrogen must be done with a cart or special trolley and in such a way that the container cannot tip over.

• Signs

Premises where liquid nitrogen is handled must have the following signs:

• a warning sign for liquid nitrogen.
• a warning sign for low temperature.
• a warning sign for pressurised vessels with the additional text "Gas cylinders are moved to safety in case of fire danger" if closed vessels with a safety valve are used and if the pressure is more than 2 bar.

Autoclaves and reactors

An autoclave is a form of pressure cooker where chemicals, plastics, textiles, glass and metal goods can be sterilised. There must be a maintenance manager who is responsible for ensuring that cleaning and checks are carried out according to the equipment's instructions.

Depending on chamber size and safety pressure, autoclaves are classified into control class A or B. Small tabletop autoclaves may not have a control classification. Autoclaves of control class A or B must be inspected by an authorised third-party inspector after installation and then continuously according to the prescribed inspection interval.

Only personnel who have received training on control class A or B autoclaves may use them. It is advisable that a list of these employees is available at the unit/department. Cycles run, daily inspections, maintenance and service must be recorded.

Reactors used in laboratory activities may be pressurised devices which then also fall under AFS 2023:11, Chapter 9. The reactor's volume and maximum pressure determine whether it belongs to control class A or B or no control class. This should be clear from the risk assessment.