Advice for manufacturers and suppliers: Helium safety

Helium is a colourless, odourless, and non-toxic gas commonly used for inflating balloons.

In New Zealand, approximately 40,000 helium canister units are sold each year. 

However, inhaling helium to change one’s voice can pose serious dangers. 

The Risks of Helium 

While helium itself is non-toxic, inhaling it can have fatal consequences due to:

1. Asphyxiation from oxygen deprivation, particularly if helium is inhaled continuously.
2. Inhaling helium (or other compressed gases) from a pressurised cylinder can physically damage the lungs or result in gas bubbles blocking blood vessels.

Consumers must be fully aware of the serious dangers associated with inhaling helium.

Coroner highlights dangers of inhaling helium after Bay of Plenty mum dies at daughter’s first birthday part(external link) — The New Zealand Herald

Recommendations for Manufacturers and Suppliers 

Implementing safety measures is crucial. 

• Place a "DO NOT INHALE - RISK OF SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH" sticker in bold print on both the top of the canister and its packaging, as current warnings are often insufficiently visible.
• Consider providing a safer helium/oxygen mixture, such as one containing 21% oxygen, to reduce the risk of asphyxiation.

Non-refillable helium cylinders mandatory standard(external link) — ACCC Product Safety

Safe Use Practices of Helium 

As a gas stored in cylinders, helium presents specific risks that require careful attention.

• Always store and use cylinders in a well-ventilated area.
• Keep cylinders in an upright and secured position.
• Secure cylinders to a wall or use a safety stand.
• Close cylinder valves after use and when empty.
• Remove the regulator and replace the safety cap before transporting or when not in use.
• Utilise a cylinder cart for moving cylinders.
• Open cylinder regulator valves slowly.
• Stand to the side when opening the valve.

Unsafe Practices 

• Do not inhale helium from cylinders or balloons.
• Do not leave helium cylinders unattended or in an unsupervised public place.
• Do not open the compressed gas cylinder valve without the proper regulator in place.
• Do not store or use helium compressed gas cylinders in hot areas, near open flames, or electrical devices.
• Do not attempt to transfer helium from one cylinder to another.

For more information, please see the safety guidelines developed by the University of California, Riverside below.

Helium Cylinders  Safety Guidelines [PDF, 358 KB](external link) — University of California Riverside, Environmental Health and Safety