# Oxygen Enrichment #safety #gas-hazard #oxygen Oxygen enrichment occurs when oxygen levels exceed 23.5%, significantly increasing fire risk and making materials more flammable. ## Definition - Normal oxygen: ~20.9% - Oxygen enrichment: > 23.5% - Increased fire risk: > 23.5% - Severe risk: > 25% ## Causes - Leakage from oxygen systems - Medical oxygen use - Industrial processes - Welding operations ## Risks - Increased flammability of materials - Fires burn hotter and faster - Materials ignite more easily - Explosion risk increases - More difficult to extinguish fires ## Detection - Oxygen sensors/monitors - Measured as %Vol - Critical in areas with oxygen systems - Continuous monitoring recommended ## Prevention - Proper system design - Leak detection - Ventilation - Worker training - Safety procedures ## Safety Measures - No smoking in enriched areas - Fire prevention measures - Proper storage of flammable materials - Emergency response procedures ## Related Concepts - [[Oxygen Deficiency]] ## Related Concepts