Nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide using cylinders or portable containers shall be prevented from reaching temperatures lower than what degree Fahrenheit?

For nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide stored in cylinders or portable containers, it is critical to maintain temperatures above 20 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because gases can change phases based on temperature; nitrous oxide, in particular, can create unsafe conditions if it cools too much, as lower temperatures can lead to increased pressure or even a gas becoming a liquid in the cylinder. When cylinders are subjected to cold temperatures, the gas might not function properly in medical applications or may become hazardous.

Keeping the temperature above this threshold helps ensure that the gases remain in a usable state and function correctly when required for medical procedures. This temperature regulation is vital not only for the effectiveness of the gas itself but also for the safety of patients and healthcare providers. Maintaining temperatures above this limit minimizes risks associated with pressure fluctuations and phase changes, ensuring consistent performance of the medical gas system.