It adds up to a lot of sweat on a hot day, said Mr. Herget, but if nitrogen or liquid oxygen hits one of these suits, it won't penetrate the material. Drivers also wear clear, flip-down Pyrex shields to protect their faces and necks. Loading of tankers is monitored from the Orlando plant's control room. Samples of the gas are taken before and after loading through a 3-inch line running parallel to the main hose. A hospital won't accept delivery without a purity sheet with every load.
Security cameras monitor activities at each loading site.
It's more for safety than anything else. If you get into trouble, the operator can see you and radio for help. While accidents are rare, Mr. Herget said, all the drivers pay close attention to what they're doing. It's the little things that get you if you are not careful. He should know.