Dry Ice Safety Tips for Small Businesses

If your small business relies on dry ice—whether for shipping perishables, cleaning machinery, or creating fog effects—understanding how to handle dry ice safely is key. Dry ice offers unique benefits, but it also requires specific precautions to keep your team and facility safe. Here’s a practical look at what dry ice is, how to work with it safely, and what to know about dry ice storage and disposal.

Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide (CO₂). Unlike regular ice, it doesn’t melt into a liquid. Instead, it “sublimates,” meaning it changes directly from solid to gas. At -109.3°F (-78.5°C), it’s extremely cold and can present several hazards if not handled properly.

Because of its low temperature and ability to rapidly turn into gas, dry ice can cause frostbite-like burns, displace oxygen in enclosed spaces, and create pressure build-up in sealed containers. These risks are manageable, but only if you take the proper steps from storage through disposal.

When it comes to handling dry ice, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is a key step. Always use insulated gloves or tongs—never bare hands—to avoid dry ice burns. These burns occur because of the intense cold, which can damage skin similarly to heat burns. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends protection when working  with cryogenic materials like dry ice. Always consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and follow applicable federal and local guidelines for safe storage and use. 

Here are a few important guidelines for dry ice storage safety.

• Use ventilated containers: Dry ice should never be stored in airtight containers. As it sublimates into CO₂ gas, pressure can build up and cause containers to burst.
• Keep in insulated coolers: Use insulated, but not sealed, containers to slow the sublimation process.
• Avoid walk-in freezers: Storing dry ice in confined spaces without proper ventilation can pose a suffocation hazard.

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In every case (whether you're handling, storing, or transporting dry ice), ventilation is essential. As dry ice sublimates, it releases carbon dioxide gas, which can displace oxygen and pose a serious hazard in enclosed spaces. OSHA warns that increased levels of CO₂ may lead to symptoms like dizziness or loss of consciousness if fresh air isn’t circulating properly. To reduce this risk, always ensure you’re working in a space with good airflow.

Here are a few practical tips to maintain dry ice ventilation safety:

• Handling: Always open doors and windows when using dry ice indoors. This helps prevent the build-up of CO₂ gas and keeps your workspace safer.
• Storage: Use containers that are not airtight. Even a small opening allows gas to escape safely. Never store dry ice in a completely sealed container, and avoid placing it in a standard freezer; its extreme cold can damage the unit. Dry ice can be used in a freezer only during a power outage and for short-term emergency cooling.
• Transportation: If you’re transporting dry ice in a vehicle, keep the windows at least slightly open to allow fresh air to circulate. This is especially important in smaller or enclosed vehicles where gas can accumulate quickly.

When it’s time for dry ice disposal, let it sublimate in a well-ventilated area away from people and pets. Do not dispose of it in sinks, toilets, or trash bins, as this can damage plumbing or cause pressure build-up.

Key tips for safe disposal:

• Place dry ice in a well-ventilated space at room temperature.
• Allow it to turn into gas slowly. Don’t break it into smaller pieces to accelerate the process.
• Never dispose of dry ice in confined spaces or enclosed trash containers.

Dry ice sublimates at a rate of about 5 to 10 pounds every 24 hours in a standard insulated cooler, depending on the thickness of insulation and ambient temperature. Because it doesn’t melt into a liquid, there’s no residue, but you’ll need to plan storage and use accordingly to avoid waste.

• Post dry ice safety signage in relevant work areas.
• Train employees on how to handle dry ice safely.
• Keep dry ice out of reach of untrained personnel.
• Store in areas with proper airflow to meet dry ice ventilation requirements.

Dry ice plays a valuable role in a range of industries, but it requires careful handling. With proper planning and adherence to safety protocols, businesses can help minimize risks like dry ice burns or improper disposal. Whether you're transporting temperature-sensitive goods, cleaning equipment, or using dry ice for another task, having dependable tools on hand supports a safer, more efficient process. Visit Zoro to find safety equipment, storage options, and handling supplies designed to meet the needs of dry ice applications.

Product Compliance and Suitability

The statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions. Portions of this article were generated in part by ChatGPT, and edited by a member of the Zoro team.