What is an unsafe level of oxygen
Air normally contains 21% oxygen by volume, although oxygen levels of 19.5% — 23.5% by volume are considered to be safe.
Some situations can cause the level of oxygen to dramatically decrease, leading to an oxygen-deficient atmosphere and possible asphyxiation. This may occur, for example, if oxygen in the atmosphere is:
- displaced by gases produced during biological processes, for example, methane in a sewer
- displaced during purging of a confined space with an inert gas to remove flammable or toxic fumes ie nitrogen
- depleted inside metal tanks and vessels through surface oxidation (for example, when rust forms)
- consumed during combustion of flammable substances
- absorbed or reacts with grains, wood chips, soil or chemicals in sealed silos.
Too much oxygen can increase the risk of fire or explosion. Oxygen-enriched atmospheres may occur if:
- chemical reactions cause the production of oxygen, for example certain reactions with hydrogen peroxide
- there is a leak of oxygen from an oxygen tank or fitting while using oxy-acetylene equipment.