
e-mail: enquiries@gassafeconsultants.co.uk
tel: 01270 758890 | fax: 01270 758891
Never smoke near oxygen

Oxygen accounts for 21% of the atmosphere and is vital for life. Which of the following statements is an accurate description of oxygen?

Sorry that was incorrect, oxygen is
undetectable by human senses
That was correct, oxygen is
undetectable by human senses
Oxygen is categorised as an oxidant and so is not flammable but it will readily support and accelerate combustion.
If the atmosphere is enriched with oxygen the likelihood and potential intensity of fires is increased. Sparks which would normally be regarded as harmless can cause fires and materials which do not burn in air, including fireproofing materials, may burn vigorously or even spontaneously in enriched air.
Smoking must, therefore, be prohibited in the vicinity of oxygen and suitable warning notices displayed.
e-mail: enquiries@gassafeconsultants.co.uk | tel: 01270 758890 | fax: 01270 758891
Gas Safe Consultants Ltd | Waterloo House | 2 Station Road | Elworth | Sandbach | Cheshire | CW11 3JG