Which safety procedure is critical when handling cryogenic gases?

Ensuring good ventilation is critical when handling cryogenic gases because these gases can displace oxygen in the air, leading to a risk of asphyxiation. Cryogenic gases, such as liquid nitrogen or helium, are stored at extremely low temperatures and can cause rapid cooling of surrounding air. If released in an enclosed area, these gases can lower oxygen levels to dangerous levels, creating an asphyxiation hazard. Good ventilation helps to disperse these gases, maintaining safe oxygen levels and ensuring that personnel are not exposed to hazardous conditions.

While the other options may seem applicable in certain contexts, they do not address the immediate risks posed by cryogenic gases effectively. For example, wearing shorts and sandals lacks necessary protection against extremely low temperatures that can cause severe frostbite, while warming gases before use could create hazards as they transition from liquid to gas. Using metal containers is also essential for certain types of cryogenic gases; however, proper ventilation remains the foremost concern for safety in any environment where these gases are present.