Oxygen Deficiency:
The Silent Killer
By Ardem Antabian,
Product Line Manager

Injury or death due to oxygen deficiency is a common hazard in many chemical, refinery and other industries. Toxic gas is often to blame when workers die unnecessarily due to asphyxiation in environments where the oxygen is actually depleted by gases such as nitrogen. To prevent these accidents, OSHA, NIOSH and other federal/state agencies have implemented numerous regulations, required procedures, permit processes -- as well as providing extensive preventative educational literature and announcing major enforcement actions.

OSHA investigations into worker deaths caused by oxygen deficiency or toxic gas almost always reveal a failure to install safety systems or utilize personal protective equipment and to follow the proper safety procedures -- especially in confined spaces. Today’s fixed oxygen-deficiency and toxic gas monitoring systems are highly reliable, relatively easy to install and operate, and offer simple maintenance. They provide excellent protection for employees and plant equipment.

Failing to provide a safe work environment can be costly -- in more than dollars and cents terms. First, there is a tragic loss of life that includes employees who are the primary victims as well as would-be rescuers, which often includes management. Then there is the cost of the investigation, corrective action, regulatory fines as well as major liability lawsuits that can completely drain a company -- both financially and in terms of staff business focus.

Continue to read the full article, which provides detailed oxygen deficiency safety and accident prevention information.