• Read and understand the MSDS. (Posted on wall in room)
• Wear safety glasses or goggles.
• Always stand to the side of the regulator when opening the main gas cylinder valve.
• Know the warning signs for overexposure to carbon dioxide gas (CO₂).
  • INHALATION: Exposure to high concentrations of this gas may cause an oxygen deficient environment. Individuals breathing such an atmosphere may experience dizziness, drowsiness, unconsciousness and death, under some circumstances.

    Inhalation of carbon dioxide can affect the central nervous system and blood vessels, as well as change the rate of respiration.

  • CONTACT WITH SKIN or EYES: Contact with liquid or rapidly expanding gases may cause burns or frostbite.
• Ask for help or clarification if you have any questions or concerns.

STEP 1:

Place cage with animals in it into the chamber.

STEP 2:

Open the Main Cylinder Valve (valve on top of cylinder) by turning the knob counter clockwise (LEFT)

The Cylinder Pressure Gauge will now indicate the current tank pressure (e.g., approximately 1,000 psi when full).

STEP 3:

Slowly turn the Delivery Pressure Adjusting Screw clockwise (RIGHT) until the pressure reads about 2 psi on the Delivery Pressure Gauge (right gauge).

STEP 4:

Turn flow meter on the side of the chamber to 9.5 l/min which is equivalent to 20% gas replacement/min until the animals become unconscious.

STEP 5:

Once the animals are unconscious, turn the flow meter up to 35 to 40 l/min until the animals are euthanized.

Remove animals from chamber and turn CO₂ off.

The chamber should be left open to air out prior to euthanizing the next cage of animals.

NOTE: Ensure animals are dead prior to disposal. The recommended method is to perform a thoracotomy.

STEP 1:

Turn flow meter on the side of the chamber back to 9.5 l/min.

STEP 2:

Turn the main cylinder valve clockwise (RIGHT) until the pressure reads zero.

Wait a few minutes for the system to depressurize.

The gauges will read 0 when this happens.

STEP 3:

Turn the Delivery Pressure Adjusting screw counterclockwise (LEFT) until it spins freely.

STEP 5:

Sign out on sheet posted on door.