Intro to Oxygen Gas
Oxygen gas is a chemical compound with the formula O2. It can be very difficult to detect when O2 levels are outside of regular concentrations, as it is colorless, odorless, and flavorless. Oxygen is an excellent oxidizing agent, and can either cause or intensify fires when combined with many different compounds in the atmosphere. Oxygen is non-combustible itself, but is a key part of the fire triangle that leads to combustion of other compounds or materials.
The biggest threat oxygen poses is when there is not enough of it; oxygen deficiencies create incredibly dangerous circumstances. This makes it imperative to frequently test confined spaces for oxygen levels, so that workers are not put into vulnerable positions. Oxygen enrichment is another risk factor due to the increased chance of combustion and explosions.
Gas Characteristics
- Colorless
- Odorless
- Insipid (tasteless)
- Paramagnetic (magnetizable substance)
- Reactive, can form oxides with all elements excluding helium, neon, argon, and krypton
- Moderately soluble in water
- CAS 7782-44-7
FIRST AID
- Typically, recovery is fast if the victim is removed from the site of the excess/insufficient oxygen, and given normal levels of oxygen again.
- Rest is always suggested regardless of the severity of exposure.
- In severe cases, sedation, anticonvulsive therapy, and administering additional oxygen should be used.
- If a fire/explosion was triggered by excess O2, treat any burns as you normally would.
IF ACCIDENTALLY RELEASED
- Isolate the area with the excess/deficiency of oxygen.
- Evacuate all personnel from the area
- Shut off oxygen source (if possible, and if the issue is excess O2).
- Remove all ignition sources (if safe to do so) and ventilate the area.
- Notify any safety personnel of the incident, and contact emergency services if the leakage is uncontrollable.