In 2012, the European Parliament introduced the 2012/18/EU directive known as “Seveso 3”. This directive lays down rules for the prevention of major accidents which involve dangerous substances, and the limitation of their consequences for human health and the environment, with a view to ensuring a high level of protection throughout the Union in a consistent and effective manner. It was transposed into French law by decree 26/05/14 relative to prevention of major accidents involving lower and upper-tier establishments.

A few years later, following a fire at the Lubrizol factory in Rouen (France) this decree was completed with circular n°2020-1168 of 24/09/20, known as the “Lubrizol” circular. It requires operators of Seveso sites to set up internal emergency plans, train staff in incident procedures and provide sampling and environmental analysis facilities to assess the impact of an accident. Sources INERIS (The French National Institue for Industrial Environment and Risks): decree no. 2020-1168 of 24/09/20 and order of 26/05/14 .

INERIS has set up RIPA (a French network bringing together organisms with an accreditation for sampling and analyses) to help manufacturers find competent companies offering solutions in line with the Lubrizol circular. It brings together samplers and laboratories specialized in air quality analysis and monitoring of atmospheric pollutants, but above all capable of reacting in emergency situations. TERA environnement joined RIPA in 2023, confirming our capabilities in terms of analytical performance, the reliability of our analytical methods and our responsiveness to accident situations. On the one hand, we provide ready-to-use sampling media to respond to any incident, and on the other, we offer emergency post-accident analysis (<24 hours after receipt of samples).

Nitrous oxide (CAS n°: 10024-97-2) is considered as one of the most dangerous greenhouse gases for the environment, contributing to both stratospheric ozone depletion and global warming.

In addition to its alarming role as a greenhouse gas, nitrous oxide, also known as nitrogen protoxide or laughing gas for its medical and recreational uses, is also toxic to humans. In the event of acute exposure, it can cause digestive, neurological or irritative disorders, and can even cause respiratory or cardiac damage in the event of heavy exposure.

For repeated, low-dose (chronic) exposure, nitrous oxide can cause neurological (impaired cognitive performance) and hematological damage, and adversely affect fertility and development.