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Nitrogen is liquid at atmospheric pressure at temperatures between 63 K and 77.2 K (−210 °C and −195.8 °C, respectively), thus it is extremely important that the LN and the equipment carrying it does not come into direct contact with the handler’s skin.

One way to avoid this is by using cryogenic gloves specially made to withstand extreme cold temperatures, and that are either water resistant or water proof. Offering protection from cold temperatures down to −160 °C, waterproof gloves help protect from splashes as well, but are still not made to withstand submersion in LN. At actual LN temperature there is some stiffening of the material, but it still remains flexible enough for use. Cryogenic gloves come in varying sizes and lengths, from wrist-length to arm-length, depending on the provider (Figs. 13.1 and 13.2).

Fig. 13.1
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Brymill CryoGloves®

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Fig. 13.2
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Delasco CryoGuard® waterproof gloves

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Cryogenic aprons are used to further help protect the body from the extreme temperatures of LN. These aprons offer protection up to −160 °C and are splash resistant (Fig. 13.3).

Fig. 13.3
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Cryo-Apron® Tempshield Cryo-ProctectionTM

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