Carbon Dioxide can be an extreme health hazard in the workplace. That’s why we here at Safety Solutions and Supply want to share the effects Carbon dioxide (CO2) has on you and your employees and how to control it. The risky part of CO2 is that it is almost undetectable without the proper equipment as it is odorless, colorless, non-flammable, and it’s density is 1.98 kgs/m3 – 1.67X Greater than air.
According to OSHA, “Carbon dioxide is classified as an asphyxiant gas. In the atmosphere, CO2 normally exists at concentrations between 300 and 700 ppm.” Depending on the concentration of CO2, the health effects will vary. For example, 3000 – 5000 PPM will cause a slight increase in respiration while 20,000 PPM will cause a 50% increase in respiration and a severe headache. If the concentration becomes too high it could cause violent panting and fatigue to the point of exhaustion merely from respiration & severe headache. Prolonged exposure at a high level could even result in irreversible health effects. If the concentration reaches 90,000 PPM, it can result in death within 5 minutes. The Health Effects of CO2 is too great to not take safety precautions and put practices in place to control exposure, whether the exposure is occupational, environmental or community exposures.
According to OSHA, “When preparing CO2 standards, an Ascarite II filter is used to remove CO2 from the diluent air. Ascarite II contains sodium hydroxide and silica:” You should also try to avoid contact with skin and mucous membranes by wearing gloves and safety glasses when handling Ascarite II.The preparation of CO2 standards should be performed in a hood in order to avoid breathing in any toxic concentrations of CO2. Other controlling methods include Video Exposure Monitoring (VEM), a CO2 Sensor, a Heart Rate Sensor such as a Garmin wrist fitness tracker, a Raspberry PI computer and proprietary software.
By bringing awareness to the health effects of Carbon Dioxide, and finding ways to control it, you’ll create a safer working environment for your employees. If you have any questions about CO2, contact us here at Safety Solutions and Supply and let one of our professionals help you. If you have any additional concerns, feel free to visit us online, check out our training services, or give us a call here at 866-537-2262.
Safety Solutions & Supply
314 E. Canal St. (State Road 60)
Mulberry, Florida 33860
Phone: 1-866-537-2262 (toll free)