19.5
The minimum oxygen level for a confined space should be at least 19.5%. Levels below this can be unsafe for workers, potentially leading to asphyxiation and other health risks. It is important to monitor and maintain proper oxygen levels in confined spaces to ensure safety.
If oxygen levels fall below 19.5% during a permit-required confined space entry, all entrants must stop work immediately and leave the confined space. No one may reenter that space until testing shows that adequate oxygen levels have been restored.
23.5%
asphyxiation
Not on its own. It needs a source of ignition.
2200 cfm
Nitrogen displaces oxygen in the confined space, leading to a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream when breathed in by the person. This can rapidly lead to unconsciousness and ultimately death due to oxygen deprivation. Nitrogen itself is not toxic, but the lack of oxygen is what causes harm.
The safe range of oxygen level in a confined space is typically considered to be between 19.5% and 23.5%. Oxygen levels below 19.5% can lead to hypoxia, while levels above 23.5% can increase the risk of combustion and fire hazards. Regular monitoring and control of oxygen levels is crucial in confined spaces to ensure the safety of individuals working in these environments.
Improve the ventilation rate
Gases displace oxygen, and heavy gasses will sit under oxygen containing air, hence if you are in a confined space it is necessary to know about the potential lack of air supply to breathe, aswell as the potential of combustion and the like.
Confined space is an area that is enclosed. A dog kennel could be a confined space for a dog. A living room is a confined space for example.
A confined space is designated as a permit-required confined space if it contains or has the potential to contain hazardous atmospheres, such as toxic gases or insufficient oxygen. Additionally, it may have a configuration that could impede entry or exit, and it may pose other safety risks, such as engulfment or entrapment. These characteristics necessitate a formal permit system to ensure safety measures are in place before entry.