Oxygen is used in industrial processes and manufacturing units all over the world. It is a highly flammable gas that can cause havoc in case of an accident. Oxygen tanks are not only used for productions process but they are also supplied to hospitals and medical units. Thus, applications of oxygen are visible all around us in the environment. Due to its chemical properties, oxygen is handled and transported with extreme care. Companies are legally bound to issue a MSDS for oxygen. This material safety data sheet carries information about oxygen, its stability and reactivity and first aid measures in case of hazardous situation.

A typical MSDS oxygen has a specific format, usually same as other MSDS. The information about the company is listed at the top; it includes important addresses as well as emergency contact numbers. Oxygen is essential for human life; however, health hazards can occur in case of an overexposure. Cramps, nausea, hypothermia, respiratory difficulties, dizziness, bradycardia, fainting spells, amblyopic and convulsions capable of leading to death can occur as a result of over exposure. Oxygen has a few toxicological properties associated with it, like concentrations between 25 to 75 molar percent can place a risk of inflammation of organic matter in the body; hyperoxia can lead to pneumonia.

In case of a leakage or accidental release, rescue personnel should wear all the necessary safety equipment and cognizant of extreme fire hazards which are associated to oxygen rich environment. MSDS oxygen also includes data about the hazardous mixture of oxygen with other liquids, solids and gases. Contact of oxygen with all flammable materials should be avoided in every way.

In case of an accidental leakage or spill all personnel should be evacuated from the affected area. Appropriate safety equipment should be used and if leak is in user equipment repairs can be attempting by piping with an inert gas. Oxygen waste should not be disposed off; rather it should be shipped back in the container to the supplier. MSDS oxygen is very important considering the fact that combustion occurs very easily in the presence of oxygen. Most valuable information in MSDS oxygen is about the handling and storage recommendations section. Oxygen should be used in well ventilated areas with protection caps and valve outlet threaded plugs in place. Cylinders should be protected from physical damage as it can result in accidental leakage. If MSDS oxygen is followed carefully oxygen can be transported and handled without any hazard.