Oxygen (O₂)
CAS Number:
7782-44-7
Oxygen (O₂) monitoring is critical in occupational settings for two opposing hazards: oxygen deficiency and oxygen enrichment. Oxygen-deficient atmospheres (below 19.5% O₂) are life-threatening, causing rapid impairment, unconsciousness, and death as levels drop. They arise from displacement by inert gases (nitrogen, argon, CO₂), combustion, or biological processes in confined spaces, tanks, and tunnels. Oxygen-enriched atmospheres (above 23.5% O₂) dramatically increase flammability and explosion risk, and can cause materials that would not ordinarily burn to ignite spontaneously. Continuous oxygen monitoring is a core requirement for confined space entry and is integrated into most multi-gas detector configurations.
Oxygen (O₂) monitoring helps verify a safe breathing atmosphere by alerting to oxygen-deficient or oxygen-enriched conditions. Use it for confined space entry, tank cleaning, underground utilities, and chemical storage areas where oxygen can be displaced by other gases or elevated by process conditions. RAECO Rents gas monitors are bump tested or span calibrated on the day of shipment. Our team can help confirm the right monitor, alarms, and setup for the job, with fast turnaround and phone support so you can get reliable field readings quickly.
