Safety

Safety

There are some important safety considerations which one should know before using the NMR spectrometer. These concern the use of (a) strong magnetic fields, and (b) cryogenic liquids. 

  1. People with medical implants (such as cardiac implants pacemakers, aneurysm clips, surgical clips, or prostheses) should check with the NMR Facility Manager before entering the NMR room. 
  2. All magnetic objects should be kept outside the NMR magnet room. This includes keys, wallets, mechanical watches, tools, etc. ASSUME ANY PIECE OF METAL IS MAGNETIC UNTIL PROVEN OTHERWISE. 
  3. Keep electronics, credit cards and magnetic storage media outside of the NMR magnet room. 
  4. Use only non-magnetic tools inside the NMR magnet room. 
  5. In case a metallic object strikes the magnet, get NMR Facility staff immediately. Do NOT attempt to pull the object off yourself. 
  6. In the event of a magnet quench (sudden and rapid boil-off of the magnets cryogens (helium and nitrogen) that can be detected by visible (and/or audible) emission of cryogenic gas from the magnet), the magnet cryogens that vaporizes displace air and can result in asphyxiation. If a quench occurs, immediately evacuate the NMR room!