Symptoms of Oxygen Deficiency

The symptoms of oxygen deficiency can be subtle at first and hard to distinguish from normal behavior. That is why it is important to continually monitor the oxygen levels when you are working in a confined space.

Oxygen content levels between 12-16% can cause increased breathing and pulse rate, affected muscular coordination, and impaired decision-making.

Oxygen content levels between 10-14% can cause distressed emotions, abnormal fatigue, and disturbed respiration.

Oxygen content levels between 6-10% can cause nausea, vomiting, and collapse or loss of consciousness.

Oxygen content levels below 6% can cause convulsive movements and possible respiratory collapse and death.

IMPORTANT: People in an oxygen-deficient environment may not be able to rescue themselves.

A victim will experience asphyxiation, which may result in brain damage or death, after only four minutes without oxygen.

To learn more about Firefighter Confined Space visit our Firefighter Confined Space Entry & Rescue Online Training web page.