Our finish is always of the highest quality. We make sure that all tubing is discrete and protected, and hidden where possible, within the limitations of the environment. Our systems are designed to be used immediately, the lines will be finished with fittings that will suit your instruments. It will also be tested and you will have a record to show this.

Laboratory gas systems are highly regulated by the British Compressed Gas Association (BCGA). All our work is carried out in compliance with the BCGA code of practices. Whilst these regulations ensure the safety of the system when in use, they also include regulations to check the system is correctly installed and maintained properly. Poorly fitted, or badly maintained laboratory gas can be exceedingly dangerous.

We work with a multitude of different clients in various sectors from the pharmaceutical to the industrial research industries, to install and maintain their laboratory gases. We are committed to building long-term working relationships with organisations to maintain their laboratory gas systems. Many systems are old, but where budgetary issues can prevent full replacements from being carried out, we have the engineering capabilities to repair and maintain an older system to keep it operational. We will always work with you, and the scope of your needs and barriers to find a workable solution.

If you are looking for a new laboratory gas system, an adjustment to your current system, or regular maintenance, the team at Midland Medical Services is here to help. We approach all projects, from the small to the large, with the same positive solution-focused attitude. Our engineers are highly experienced, trained, and professional. They will always draw upon their own knowledge as well as researching the answers to our clients’ specific questions. We are always available for an initial discussion. Speak to the team at Midland Medical Services today about your laboratory gas.

What are laboratory gases?

Laboratory gases covers a wide number of gases that each have their own properties and uses within a laboratory. They also have different requirements in terms of storing and delivering the gases safely. Typical laboratory gases include:

• Air
• Argon (Ar)
• Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)
• Carbon Monoxide (CO)
• Helium (He)
• Hydrogen (H₂)
• Krypton (Kr)
• Neon (Ne)
• Nitrogen (N₂)
• Oxygen (O₂)
• Xenon (Xe)

In a pharmaceutical or medical laboratory, the most common three gases are Helium, Argon and Nitrogen.

Helium

Helium (He) stands out as an exceptionally lightweight, odorless, and tasteless gas. Classified among the six noble gases—Helium, Neon, Argon, Krypton, Xenon, and Radon—it earns its noble status by avoiding chemical reactions with other elements. This inert nature prevents Helium from forming intricate compounds through atomic bonding, contributing to its robust safety profile and versatile applications. Widely embraced for its non-reactive characteristics, Helium finds frequent use as a carrier gas in laboratory settings.

Beyond the familiar role of inflating balloons, Helium plays a crucial part in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, showcasing its diverse utility. While its primary application involves cooling magnets within MRI machines in laboratories, Helium extends its influence to various medical domains, encompassing respiratory, cardiology, radiology, and cryology functions. Its unyielding stability and broad spectrum of applications underscore Helium’s indispensability in scientific and medical realms.

Argon

Argon (Ar), another member of the noble gas family, shares the characteristic of non-reactivity with other elements. Beyond its familiar application in neon lights, Argon plays a significant role in the medical and biotechnology sectors. Renowned for its inert nature, Argon is the preferred choice as an inert gas within Schlenk lines and glove boxes, particularly in situations where nitrogen might react with reagents or apparatus. Moreover, Argon finds utility as a carrier gas in gas chromatography and electrospray mass spectrometry.

In the realm of pharmaceuticals and medicine, Argon emerges as a valuable component, employed in packaging scenarios where Nitrogen interactions may pose challenges. Its versatility extends to applications in cryosurgery and in lasers utilized for vascular welding and correcting eye defects. This broad spectrum of applications underscores Argon’s adaptability and significance in diverse scientific and medical settings.

Nitrogen

While not classified as a noble gas akin to Helium or Argon, Nitrogen (N) finds widespread use in the pharmaceutical industry owing to its relatively non-reactive nature in various processes and applications. Laboratories leverage nitrogen primarily to regulate the atmosphere for highly sensitive equipment and procedures. Nitrogen gas plays a pivotal role in controlling oxygen levels, humidity, and temperature within lab equipment, encompassing cell incubators, dry boxes, glove boxes, and mass spectrometers. This versatile application underscores nitrogen’s significance in maintaining precise environmental conditions crucial for the pharmaceutical research and development processes.

What safety measures are needed for installing laboratory gas systems?

Laboratories rely heavily on various gases for experiments and research and ensuring these gases are installed and can be used safely is of paramount importance. In the UK there are various laws and regulations that have been put into place to ensure this is the case.

From general health and safety laws such as the Health and Safety at Work ACT 1974 which governs how all employers must maintain a safe working environment for employees, to more specialised legislation such as the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) and Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005. Both of these regulations concern the control of substances hazardous to health and the safe disposal of these substances, including gas cylinders from laboratories.

As part of your laboratory gas installation, we will ensure the system can be used safely and in compliance with these and other regulations, with measures put in place that include:

• Ventilation – laboratories need adequate ventilation to prevent the build up of gases. Proper airflow helps disperse these gases and maintain a safe working environment.
• Gas Detection: Your system will have a gas detection element installed and routinely calibrated which will monitor for the presence of hazardous gases, enabling swift response and mitigation in case of risks or emergencies.
• Emergency Shutdown Procedure: Your gas system must have a quick way to ensure that the gas can be switched off in an emergency and that these shutoff valves are easily accessible and clearly marked.
• Storage: Gas cylinders should be stored in well-ventilated areas, using proper storage racks and away from heat sources to prevent leaks and other emergencies.
• Inspection and Maintenance: As well as installing your system, Midland Medical Services can also ensure a regular inspection and maintenance schedule is put into place. This will ensure any faulty or worn components are discovered promptly to prevent leaks or malfunctions that could compromise safety.
• Training: As well as installing and maintaining the system, you will also need to ensure that those working in the laboratory understand what they need to do to keep themselves safe.
• Documentation: We will provide you with documentation about how your system works in compliance with UK regulations from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

If you would like to find out more, get in touch with our friendly team who will be more than happy to help.